If there was one film that dominated the conversation at the 2026 Grammys, it was Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ (and its music). The movie’s compilation soundtrack for visual media snagged the award putting a spotlight on a truly eclectic mix of artists.

And this wasn’t just your usual pop lineup though there were pop and R&B stars, the soundtrack spans generations, genres, and history itself.

Performers include Hailee Steinfeld and Miles Caton from the cast, mainstream superstars like Don Toliver, James Blake, Brittany Howard, and Rod Wave, as well as blues and jazz legends like Bobby Rush, Geeshie Wiley, Buddy Guy, Justin Robinson, and Cedric Burnside.

That’s a wide net, and because of it, the Grammy officially goes to producers Ryan Coogler, Ludwig Göransson, Serena Göransson, and music supervisor Nikki Sherod.

Also Read: Grammys 2026 Highlights: Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Lady Gaga, Dalai Lama define the night | Major winners

Coogler’s film isn’t shy about showing how music can summon spirits past, present, and yes, even evil.

Blues, vampires, and twins!

Michael B Jordan proves once again he can do double duty, playing twins Smoke and Stack in a story set in 1930s Mississippi. They return home from Chicago, ready to open a juke joint. But the night isn’t all smooth jazz. Vampires are circling, literally.

This is where the soundtrack comes to life. The music isn’t just background. It’s a character, a time machine, and a spiritual guide. Think Buddy Guy on electric blues, Rhiannon Giddens on banjo, and even Metallica’s Lars Ulrich on drums sharing the same stage as actors and other musicians. Every note pulses with history.

One standout sequence? Miles Caton, playing Sammie, performs a new blues track called “I Lied to You” in a packed juke joint. Coogler, behind the gigantic IMAX camera, opens a time portal. Suddenly, 1930s plantation workers, ancient African drummers, rock guitarists, and modern twerkers all occupy the same floor. Then the roof bursts into flames. It’s chaotic, thrilling, and deeply musical.

Why the music matters more than the vampires

Sure, the vampires are flashy, but the Blues is the real star. ‘Sinners’ doubles as a musical history lesson. Ludwig Göransson, Coogler’s longtime collaborator, makes sure that audiences experience Blues legends and modern stars side by side.

From Geeshie Wiley and Robert Johnson to Brittany Howard and Alice Smith, the soundtrack celebrates Black music across eras.

The film also doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths. In a chilling scene, Delroy Lindo’s Delta Slim recounts the exploitation of Black artists. His partner, Rice, was lynched after simply trying to travel North for better opportunities.

Meanwhile, white artists profited from Black music while Black creators were blocked from cultural spaces.

The Blues, Jazz, and even the banjo trace back to West and Central African roots, shaping American music even under oppressive conditions like Reconstruction and Jim Crow Mississippi.

Sinners’ mythical and sinful sound

The film doesn’t treat music lightly. It’s sensual, supernatural, and yes, a little dangerous. Sammie’s performance at the juke joint literally summons spirits of Black musicians and dancers, past, present, and future. Music here isn’t just fun.

And there’s the Faustian angle. ‘Robert Johnson’, legendary Delta blues musician, is never directly named. But his story looms large. Johnson’s myth, young man meeting the devil at crossroads in exchange for musical mastery, is echoed in Sammie and the twins’ struggles. Achieving greatness requires some sort of sacrifice. Smoke and Stack leave family and community behind to succeed in Chicago. Sammie risks personal ties to master the blues. In ‘Sinners’, sinfulness and goodness are intertwined. Music can both tempt and heal.

The juke joint as a beacon of resistance

One of the film’s most powerful images is juke joint itself. Despite threats from the Klan, this small space pulses with life, joy, rebellion. The Blues is resistance and survival. Even the preacher, Sammie’s father Jedidah, warns of the Blues’ supernatural power.

The old superstition that the Blues is the “devil’s music” threads through the story, tying history, folklore, performance together.

The juke joint becomes a microcosm of Black resilience, a place where music bridges generations and geography connecting ancestors with modern audiences.

Even the villains respect the power of music

Sinners’ villains aren’t just creepy. They’re clever. Remmick (Jack O’Donnell), a vampire, attempts to harness Sammie’s talent for his own gain. He performs ‘The Rocky Road to Dublin’ is an Irish folk tune about resistance and displacement.

Seemingly out of place in the film rooted in the Black South but this choice demonstrates how music can be appropriated, manipulated, weaponised much like cultural oppression itself.

From blues to hip-hop: Music that transcends time

The genius of Sinners lies in its musical timeline. The Blues-inspired tracks flow into modern genres of Hip-Hop, Rock, Country. Coogler and Göransson make you feel it. When you hear the soundtrack, you’re literally listening to centuries of Black creativity and struggle condensed into one movie.

Ludwig Göransson’s compositions have topped streaming charts, and industry insiders are already predicting Oscar nods for Best Original Score and Best Original Song.

‘Sinners’ is a musical experience that sticks. It teaches, entertains, and tells us that Black music is a living history. The Blues, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Folk are stories, struggles, and triumphs.

Haryana Thunders were crowned champions of the Pro Wrestling League 2026 after narrowly defeating Delhi Dangal Warriors 5–4 in a tense final on Sunday. Following their victory, head coach Virender Dahiya attributed the franchise’s success to its long-term vision and emphasised the league’s significance for emerging wrestlers.

He noted that the league provided valuable learning experiences from foreign players and expressed confidence that Indian wrestlers will continue to bring honour to the country internationally.

Speaking after the final, Dahiya revealed that the management had placed complete trust in the coaching staff from the very beginning.

“When the franchise spoke to us on the first day — to me and our assistant coach Prasad ji — they handed over the entire responsibility to us. They never said we had to make the team champions.

They only said that experienced players and new talent should be given opportunities. During the auction, we focused on selecting quality wrestlers and Indian players who would genuinely benefit from this platform.

“We picked 18–19-year-old wrestlers to ensure balance in the team. That is why we reached the semi-finals, then the final, and eventually won. This was a result of complete teamwork,” Dahiya told IANS.

Haryana Thunders coach, who has been associated with the Indian wrestling setup for the past four years and currently serves as the head coach of the women’s national team, highlighted the remarkable progress of young female wrestlers in the country.

“Many girls between the ages of 18 and 20 have already competed in our other teams. These girls have defeated Olympic medallists, European champions and World Championship medallists. Wrestlers like Kajal and Sarika have done it. The future of these girls is extremely bright, and this will be hugely beneficial for India in the upcoming Asian Games,” he said.

The coach also emphasised the importance of exposure gained by competing alongside elite foreign wrestlers, calling it a major morale booster for Indian athletes.

“Playing with foreign wrestlers helps immensely. Many of our girls had only seen someone like Susaki on television. On the first day, some of them even cried after seeing such a big star train alongside them. She has been training with us for the last 20 days. The morale of all the girls has gone up significantly, and now they want to become like Susaki (Yui),” said Dahiya

Dahiya further praised the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for reviving the league after the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and for creating a stronger platform for wrestlers. “This has been the vision of the Wrestling Federation of India. The league had stopped due to COVID, but WFI made strong efforts to restart it and provide a new platform for both men and women.

“I have heard that in the coming time, the number of teams will increase from six to twelve, and matches will be held across different states. This will have a tremendous impact on our Olympic preparations.”

Haryana Thunders’ title win not only capped a thrilling season but also underscored the growing depth, confidence, and global exposure of Indian wrestling, a promising sign as the country looks ahead to major international events.

Australia’s preparations for the T20 World Cup have been hit by further uncertainty, with fast bowler Josh Hazlewood set to miss the early part of the tournament as he continues rehabilitation from an Achilles issue in Sydney. In response, Sean Abbott has been included in the squad as a travelling reserve.

Hazlewood, who was initially sidelined from the England series due to a hamstring strain, later developed an Achilles problem during his recovery. After consultations between selectors and medical staff, it was decided that the senior pacer would remain in Australia for now, with no clear timeline set for his arrival in Sri Lanka.

Australia selector Tony Dodemaide said the decision was taken with Hazlewood’s long-term fitness in mind.

“We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka. With Nathan also completing his return to play we decided to bring Sean with us as fast bowling cover should anything come up at short notice,” Dodemaide was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

“Sean is an accomplished and versatile international player who has experienced numerous World Cup campaigns. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour,” he added.

Abbott’s inclusion comes as Australia continue to navigate multiple fitness concerns within their squad. The defending champions have already lost Pat Cummins from the tournament, with the fast bowler requiring additional time to recover from a back injury that forced him to miss four of the five Tests against England. Ben Dwarshuis was subsequently added to the final 15-member squad, while Matt Renshaw replaced Matthew Short.

Further complications remain, with several key players only just returning or still managing injuries. Nathan Ellis missed both Hobart Hurricanes’ BBL finals due to a hamstring concern, while Tim David has not played since December 26 after sustaining a hamstring injury in the BBL, his second such setback in eight months following a strain during last year’s IPL.

Glenn Maxwell, meanwhile, was rested for the Pakistan tour as part of the ongoing management of his previously broken ankle.

There were also brief injury concerns during Australia’s recent series in Pakistan. Adam Zampa bowled just two overs in the final ODI in Lahore and did not bat due to groin tightness, although Cricket Australia later described the issue as precautionary.

Despite the challenges, reinforcements are on the way. Maxwell, Ellis, and David are all expected to link up with the squad in Colombo on Tuesday after missing the Pakistan tour.

Australia are scheduled to play a warm-up match against the Netherlands on Thursday before opening their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on February 11.

Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Marsh (captain), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matt Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Shiv Sena (UBT) Member of Parliament Sanjay Raut today raised questions on the Baramati plane crash that claimed former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s life on 28 January, and demanded a probe into the case.

Casting doubts over the sudden demise of the NCP leader in the plane crash, Raut said, “The manner in which a leader like Ajit Pawar, a tall leader of Maharashtra, died in a plane crash and the facts which are coming to light – it should be investigated, I think there is something dubious here.”

Calling his death suspicious, he further added that these questions are being raised by Ajit’s party as well.

#WATCH | Delhi: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut says, “Questions will indeed be raised on the accident of Ajit dada, questions should indeed be raised. The manner in which a leader like Ajit Pawar, a tall leader of Maharashtra, died in a plane crash and the facts which are… pic.twitter.com/VfsggVbYtq

— ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2026

Even NCP-SCP leader Anil Deshmukh has demanded an investigation into the case. He said, “…There should be a thorough inquiry and the truth should come out at the earliest.”

Expressing doubt over the mention of poor visibility as the cause of the crash, he said, “It is being said that the accident occurred due to reduced visibility. However, the videos were shot from a distance but still clearly show the plane flying, tilting during landing, and ultimately crashing. So, several people are suspicious about reduced visibility being mentioned as the cause of the crash. The black box has been retrieved, it will be examined. Everything will be clear in the examination.”

#WATCH | Mumbai: On the death of Ajit Pawar, NCP-SCP leader Anil Deshmukh says, “It is being said that the accident occurred due to reduced visibility. However, the videos were shot from a distance but still clearly show the plane flying, tilting during landing, and ultimately… pic.twitter.com/gKWaCvneMs

— ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2026

Raut alleges BJP threatened Ajit

Post Ajit’s demise, speculation over the unification of the two factions of NCP has intensified, with leaders from both factions claiming that Ajit had finalised the merger before his death. Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar also mentioned that Ajit was due to announce the coming together of the two factions on 12 February.

In this backdrop, Raut also claimed that Ajit wanted to ‘return home’ after BJP threatened him with the Sinchan Scam files.

He said, “Something did happen behind the curtains. Ajit dada had said that he wants to ‘return home’, after that the people of BJP threatened him with the Sinchan Scam files. Ajit Pawar then responded to them over the same Sinchan Scam files. He died mysteriously within 10 days of that. What do we understand from this? This reminds us of Justice Loya. Did someone do something here?”

However, just hours after the plane crash, Sharad Pawar urged people not to politicise the death of his nephew Ajit Pawar, saying that the plane crash was an accident.

अजित पवार ह्यांचा अपघाती मृत्यू हा महाराष्ट्राला प्रचंड मोठा धक्का आहे. एक कर्तृत्ववान आणि निर्णय घेण्याची शक्ती ज्यांच्यात आहे अशा व्यक्तीला महाराष्ट्र आज मुकला. जे काही नुकसान झालंय ते भरून निघणारं नाही पण सगळ्याच गोष्टी काही आपल्या हातात नसतात.

मी आज मिडियासमोर येणार नव्हतो… pic.twitter.com/SI2qBqsnpH

— Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) January 28, 2026

Grammy night has a new headline-grabber, and it’s not Billie Eilish or Bad Bunny. Donald Trump, the US president, went full social media fireworks on Truth Social right after the 2026 Grammys, blasting the awards show and its host, Trevor Noah, in a post that’s already making the rounds.

Trump calls the Grammys “unwatchable”

In a post dripping with outrage, Trump described the ceremony as “virtually unwatchable” and claimed CBS was lucky to air it at all.

But the real fireworks came when he went after Noah personally, labeling him “a total loser” and threatening legal action over a joke about Trump’s alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein.

Noah, in his usual sharp-witted style, had joked during Billie Eilish’s Song of the Year win that Trump might need a new island to hang out with Bill Clinton, referencing Epstein’s notorious island.

Trump fired back hard, insisting he has never been to Epstein Island and calling Noah’s comment “false and defamatory.”

He even hinted he might send his lawyers after the comedian, citing past victories against media figures.

What was the Trevor Noah joke on Donald Trump?

The joke, delivered immediately after Billie Eilish’s win for “Wildflower,” was classic Noah: quick, cheeky, and aimed straight at headlines. He quipped, “That’s a Grammy every artist wants, almost as much as Trump wants Greenland. Which makes sense because, since Epstein’s gone, he needs a new island to hang out with Bill Clinton.”

Trump’s response focused almost entirely on Noah, not the other stars of the night.

Also Read: Trevor Noah monologue at Grammys 2026: Nicki Minaj callout and Donald Trump joke become early talking points

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has said that women cannot hold the highest leadership position in the party, stating that the party follows Islamic principles, which “do not allow women to serve as ameer”.

This comes as Bangladesh goes to the polls on February 12.

Speaking to reporters at the Election Commission (EC) premises on Sunday, the party’s Women’s Wing Secretary Nurunnisa Siddika said Jamaat-e-Islami operates as an organisation guided by Islamic ideals and bases its policies on its interpretation of Quranic instructions.

“According to the Quran, men are directors of women, which is considered a command and obligation in Islam,” she was quoted as saying by a leading Bangladeshi daily, The Dhaka Tribune.

She further stated that based on this understanding, women are not permitted to occupy the top leadership position in any Islamic organisation.

She said the party carries out its organisational and political activities in accordance with this principle and remains committed to its ideological framework.

Responding to questions about why Jamaat has not nominated any female candidates in parliamentary elections, Siddika said the matter was an “internal organisational decision” taken by the party.

She stated that the broader discussion should not be limited to the question of women holding top positions, but should instead focus on whether women’s rights, dignity, and security are being adequately ensured in society.

“In the past 54 years, Bangladesh has had two female prime ministers for long periods. But have women’s problems been solved? Has violence against women decreased? Have women’s rights been established?” she asked.

Siddika argued that placing women in senior leadership roles does not automatically translate into meaningful improvements in the lives of women across the country.

“Real change comes when leadership — whether male or female — is humane and ensures dignity for all,” she said, adding that Jamaat places greater emphasis on establishing just and humane leadership rather than appointing women to the highest positions.

Meanwhile, Jamaat Women’s Wing chief Habiba Chowdhury said women constitute nearly half of Bangladesh’s electorate, yet many have historically been deprived of the opportunity to exercise their voting rights.

She claimed that at least 15 incidents involving attacks on female Jamaat activists in various districts had been reported to the Election Commission, alleging that the incidents were driven by political vendetta.

Earlier on Sunday, a six-member Jamaat delegation led by Assistant Secretary General Advocate Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair met Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin to discuss contemporary issues related to the electoral process.

The Baloch rebel group Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed that its ongoing offensive, titled Operation Herof Phase II, has been underway for more than 40 hours across multiple districts of Balochistan, alleging heavy casualties among Pakistani security forces and asserting control over several urban and rural areas.

In a series of statements and media releases issued through its official channel, Hakkal, the BLA stated the operation had expanded across a wide geographical stretch of the province.

As part of its claims, the group released a video recorded during clashes in Gwadar, identifying a female ‘fidayeen’ fighter who it said was killed during attacks against Pakistani forces, according to a report by The Balochistan Post.

The group identified the woman as Hawa Baloch, also known by the alias Droshum, and described the footage as her “final message, sent twelve hours before her martyrdom.”

Sources quoted by The Balochistan Post said Hawa Baloch was a writer and that her father had previously been associated with the Baloch armed movement and was killed in fighting several years ago.

In the video message, Hawa Baloch is seen urging Baloch women to join what she referred to as the armed resistance.

She alleged that the Pakistani state had “oppressed Baloch women as well as men” and argued that women in Baloch society were “neither intellectually nor practically weak.” She said the time had come for women to “rise and seek justice.”

The BLA also identified another female fidayeen as 23-year-old Asifa Mengal. According to the group, she carried out a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) operation on January 31 targeting the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) headquarters in Noshki.

In addition, the group released a separate video featuring fidayeen Nako Fazal Baloch, whom it described as the “eldest Baloch fidayee of the Baloch Liberation Army,” highlighting his role in the ongoing campaign.

In two detailed statements issued by BLA spokesperson Jeeyand Baloch, the group claimed its fighters had completed operations in areas including Kharan, Mastung, Tump and Pasni, while asserting that fighting was continuing in other locations.

The statements further claimed that BLA fighters were present in parts of Quetta and Noshki, where the group alleged that Islamabad’s military presence had been “repelled.”

According to the BLA’s claims, more than 200 personnel belonging to the Pakistan Army, police and Frontier Corps were killed during the offensive, while at least 17 individuals were captured.

The group described these figures as “preliminary and cautious estimates,” adding that it believed the actual losses suffered by security forces were higher.

In a separate development linked to the operation, the BLA said it had detained Deputy Commissioner of Noshki, Muhammad Hussain Hazara, and Assistant Commissioner Maria Shamoo, before later releasing them.

The group described their release as a “humanitarian gesture,” claiming that it does not view the local civil administration and police as direct adversaries unless they actively resist its fighters.

However, it issued a warning that local officials and police personnel who “assist the occupying army” would be treated as hostile targets.

The BLA also acknowledged losses within its own ranks, stating that 18 of its fighters were killed during the operation.

According to the group, those killed included 11 fidayeen from the Majeed Brigade, four fighters from the Fateh Squad, and three fighters belonging to the STOS unit.

Pakistan’s decision to boycott its match against India at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has set off a fresh round of reactions in the capital. For some leaders, the call reflects a reluctance to face India on the field. For others, it is another reminder of how easily cricket, a sport followed with near-religious passion on both sides, gets pulled into political disputes.

The decision comes at a time when relations in the region remain tense.

Strong political reactions from across parties

BJP MP Shashank Mani used unusually harsh language to criticise Pakistan’s decision.

“When a player realises that they cannot win, they run away from the field. They are ‘rannchhodd’, they have run away from the field. If you are participating in a championship, you should play without any discrimination. We defeated them in Operation Sindoor and other wars. We would have defeated them here too. So, they are not even playing.”

TMC MP Kirti Azad echoed the view that the boycott reflects Pakistan’s lack of confidence, but also linked it to past security concerns.

“Pakistan knows it can’t win. So it thought to save face… India had a great opportunity when 26 people were killed in Baisaran (valley in Pahalgam). India shouldn’t have played in the World Cup then… This would have sent a message internationally that we are against terrorists and that Pakistan is the biggest terrorist state.”

Shashi Tharoor warns against deepening the divide

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor offered the strongest critique of politicising sport, calling the current situation damaging and unsustainable.

“It is pretty disgraceful that sport has been politicised in this way on both sides, frankly. I don’t think that Mustafizur (Bangladeshi cricketer Mustafizur Rahman) should have been denied his contract to play in Kolkata. It was most unfortunate.”

He described the chain of reactions across countries as excessive and warned that the fallout is growing.

“This whole thing is spiralling out of control. I think we need to really need to come to an understanding that sports, especially a sport like cricket, which means so much to all the people, should be a means of bringing us together, at least on the playing field, rather than allowing this to go on like this.”

Tharoor said the ICC should act as a neutral forum to defuse tensions.

“I honestly think this is now a wake-up call for all concerned to contact each other on an emergency basis; the ICC could be the platform for it – just say, let’s call off this nonsense…You can’t go on like this forever.”

The Grammys were buzzing, but all eyes were on K-pop sensation trio HUNTR/X, known off-stage as Ejae, Rei Ami, and Audrey Nuna. The animated stars behind the hit ‘Kpop Demon Hunters’ brought a fashion statement with a story. And trust us, this wasn’t your usual red carpet glitz.

Audrey Nuna: Family, fashion, and a legacy in Thom Browne

Audrey Nuna’s outfit was a tribute. Draped in Thom Browne, she shared a deeply personal message about her family’s immigrant journey.

“It’s a very meaningful look for me,” she told E! on the red carpet. “My grandfather fulfilled his first orders for Thom Browne when he moved to the US. Clothing is our survival story.”

Also Read: Grammys 2026: All celebs who spoke out against ICE and supported immigrant rights

This wasn’t a one-off homage. Nuna first highlighted her grandfather’s legacy at the Golden Globes in January. On social media, she shared, “When my grandpa moved here, he had to start over. He worked tirelessly to build a business in clothing manufacturing.”

Ejae and Rei Ami: Statements in Dior and Korean couture

While Nuna wore her history on her sleeve, her bandmates also made fashion meaningful. Ejae stunned in a custom Dior by Jonathan Anderson.

“I don’t even know if I’m feeling right now—out of body,” he confessed to E!, barely containing excitement. Rei Ami brought a touch of Korea to the Grammys, wearing a custom look by Guvanch adorned with Korea’s national flower.

And the night wasn’t just about style. HUNTR/X made music history as their track ‘Golden’ became the first-ever K-pop song to win a Grammy. After months of buzz and anticipation, the trio’s hard work paid off.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to hold its monetary policy committee (MPC) meeting from February 4-6 and according to economists, the MPC is expected to vote for a pause on a policy rate cut, while the central bank undertakes direct measures to tackle liquidity, bond stability and currency-related risks.

The Central Bank has already lowered the repo rate by 125 basis points since February 2025 to 5.25 per cent.

“With the government remaining on course its fiscal consolidation path, we don’t expect any material impact on the direction of monetary policy,” said Radhika Rao, Executive Director and Senior Economist at DBS Bank.

The MPC lowered rates in December 2025 but is expected to refrain from cutting rates further in February.

“We expect bond purchases to continue this quarter and in April-June 2026. With the FY27 Budget outlining a record high of borrowings, the central bank might prefer to be agile and nimble its money market related operations and keep borrowing costs in check,” said Radhika Rao, Executive Director and Senior Economist at DBS Bank.

Growth impulse has been firm despite trade tensions, while inflation is off lows. The rupee has continued to be under pressure, depreciating to successive fresh lows. Deposit mobilisation has already been a challenge, said Rao.

Overall, the Union Budget 2026 preserves macroeconomic stability and maintains continuity in policy. Fiscal consolidation will continue, with the centre’s debt-to-GDP ratio projected to decline by around 0.5 per cent and the fiscal deficit expected to narrow to 4.3 per cent of GDP.

The effective revenue and primary deficits stand to consolidate further, said the economist, adding that moreover, lowering rates further could spur further repatriation of rate-sensitive portfolio flows.

The RBO recently announced a series of liquidity-enhancing measures that will pump in more than Rs 2 lakh crore into the banking system to ease liquidity pressure. The Central Bank said it will use a combination of open market bond purchases, a foreign exchange swap, and a variable rate repo operation to ease liquidity conditions in the financial system. The steps are being undertaken following a review of current liquidity and financial conditions.

According to SBI Research, even as the RBI has cut repo rate by 125 basis points and has proactively injected/announced Rs 6.6 lakh crore in the current fiscal as part of open market operations (OMO), yields are refusing to budge down, as such level of liquidity management has resulted in asymmetric transmission across market segments.

“We propose that RBI does OMO in papers that are liquid to make a meaningful impact on yields. For example, the current 10 year paper is 6.48 per cent 2035. The RBI can do OMO in just the preceding 10 year paper, that is 6.33 per cent 2035/immediate outgoing benchmark paper,” said the report.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has written a letter to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman seeking a judicial probe into the unnatural death of C.J. Roy in the midst of a search action by the Income Tax personnel on January 30.

“I write this letter to share the deep sorrow of the people of Kerala on the unnatural death of Roy. The business community and the civil society are shocked on hearing about this event. Let me state at the outset that this unfortunate incident is a blot on the tax administration of the country, when the aim of the government has been stated as Non-intrusive Usage of Data to Guide and Enable (NUDGE). While there can be no dispute on the fact that intrusive action may be required in rare cases, as situation warrants, there needs to be exercise of extreme caution while initiating, conducting and concluding such actions.”

Confident Group Founder and Chairman C.J. Roy allegedly shot himself dead at his office in Bengaluru on Friday (January 30). He was a prominent real estate developer known for his luxury lifestyle and high-profile business ventures.

CM Vijayan, in his letter to the Union Finance Minister, has also raised some questions.

“From reports that are coming, it seems that lack of required diligence has resulted in the loss of the precious life of an entrepreneur. While it will be inappropriate to discuss anything about the merit of the search and seizure action by the Income Tax department at this juncture, one cannot refrain from drawing certain prudent inferences, based on information available in the public domain. It is quite surprising that the person in whose premises the Income Tax department was conducting a search and seizure operation, could proceed to lay hands on a loaded gun and shoot himself when the tax department personnel were going ahead with search operations.”

“It is believed that there are certain rights of the searched person, which are to be respected by the officials, while some duties are cast upon the searched person, which she/he has to follow. In any search operation, the person in whose case search warrant has been issued needs to be present at the place where the officials are conducting the search and established procedures require that there have to be at least two independent witnesses.”

The CM goes on to point out that in the instant case, if reports coming in the media are correct, Roy had moved to another room and laid hands on the licensed gun and shot himself, even when the search operation was going on at another place in the building.

“If correct, this is a serious lapse. The logical conclusion that follows is that non-compliance to following of minimum essential protocol in the conduct of search has led to the loss of a human life. It is also equally important to pay attention to the grievances of the bereaved family. The brother of late Roy has raised serious issues like harassment by officials,” the letter says, ‘My brother cooperated fully and submitted all documents. Yet the officials kept returning. He told several times that the I-T trouble was unbearable…’ was what Roy’s brother had stated.”

The CM said in the letter that the Income Tax department will have its version too. “It is felt that the whole truth about this incident has to come out through a credible analysis of the legal and administrative procedures to ensure a fair search operation, how this event could have been prevented had due diligence been exercised and what is the substance of the statements of the immediate relatives of late Roy.”

While emphasising the probe, CM Vijayan says in the letter, “Ordering such an impartial inquiry into this matter is essential if occurrence of such tragic incidents in future is to be prevented. It is my belief that the best option which can be exercised by the Government of India in this matter will be to order a judicial inquiry into the incident and it will be in the fitness of things that the Commission of Inquiry be headed by a person who has had experience as a judge in a constitutional court.”

The CM demanded that the grievances of the immediate family should be viewed with empathy, and they have a right to have all the facts brought out through an impartial inquiry.

“While the investigation by the Karnataka Police is going on, judicial inquiry is requested to look into the wider aspects mentioned above. It is felt that calling for official reports and reiterating that legal provisions have been followed in letter will not suffice. Only a judicial inquiry, which can look into the entire matter will be regarded as having credibility by the larger society. Hence, there should not be any hesitation on the part of Government of India in ordering a judicial inquiry without any delay and obtaining a comprehensive report in a time-bound manner,” he said.

He said that he completely agreed that tax evasion is a serious problem and every effort has to be taken to curb it; but no action leading to the loss of a precious human life, as it has happened in the case of Roy, can be justified in a civilised democratic society.

“Often it is said that taxation is the price we pay for our civilisation and hence there has to be zero tolerance to tax evasion. While fully endorsing this view, one has to equally emphasise the fact that in the name of ensuring tax compliance, uncivilised acts too have to be viewed with zero tolerance. I request the Union Finance Minister to initiate steps to order a judicial inquiry into the matter by getting a Commission of Inquiry constituted with a person who has served in a constitutional court as its head,” adds CM Vijayan.

This year, Grammys became a lightning rod for political statements, as some of music’s biggest names used the spotlight to speak out against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). With protests surging nationwide following the deaths of two US citizens at the hands of ICE agents in Minneapolis, the event became more than just a celebration of music.

Also Read: Molly Ringwald, iconic ’80s actress, slams Trump regime as ‘fascist’, urges fans to stand against ICE brutality

Justin and Hailey Bieber make a statement

The Biebers arrived at the Grammys looking every bit the celebrity power couple, but it wasn’t just fashion that caught the eye. Both Justin and Hailey Bieber sported “ICE Out” pins on the red carpet signaling their support for immigrants and calling for accountability.

Justin, nominated for four awards and performing at the show, let his style do some talking before his performance.

Billie Eilish and Finneas: Family duo, united on stage

Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas O’Connell didn’t just make a quiet nod with their outfits. They added their voices loud and clear. Both siblings adorned “ICE Out” pins, but the real fireworks came when they took the stage to accept Song of the Year for “Wildflower.”

Billie paused, her usually soft voice cutting through the glitz: “No one is illegal on stolen land,” she declared, before adding bluntly, “F’ck ICE.”

Bad Bunny speaks from the heart

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, who won Best Música Urbana Album for ‘Debí Tirar Más Fotos’, also made the night about more than music. In his acceptance speech, he made his position clear: “Before I say thanks to God, I’m going to say ICE out. We’re not savage. We’re not animals. We are not aliens. We are humans, and we are Americans.”

He didn’t stop there, adding a message of unity: “The only thing that is more powerful than hate is love.”

Olivia Dean honours her roots

Rising star Olivia Dean, who snagged Best New Artist, took the stage and instantly made it personal. “I’m up here as a granddaughter of an immigrant,” Dean said. “I’m a product of bravery, and I think those people deserve to be celebrated.”

Kehlani: Outspoken and unapologetic

R&B powerhouse Kehlani, winner of both Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for ‘Folded’, made no attempt to tone down her message. On the red carpet, she wore an “ICE Out” pin and told The Hollywood Reporter she wanted to “say ‘F’ck ICE,’” but opted for a slightly more polished approach.

Once on stage, however, she unleashed her unfiltered thoughts, condemning ICE and expressing hope that artists would unite for justice. “Together, we’re stronger in numbers,” she said. “We must speak against all the injustice going on in the world right now… F’ck ICE.”

Shaboozey brings country music into the conversation

It wasn’t just pop and R&B stars getting vocal. Country artist Shaboozey, accepting his first Grammy alongside Jelly Roll for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for “Amen,” turned his moment into a tribute to immigrants.

“Immigrants built this country, literally,” he said. “So this is for them, for all children of immigrants… Thank you for bringing your culture, your music, your stories and your traditions here. You give America color. I love y’all so much.”

Legends show support: Joni Mitchell

Music royalty Joni Mitchell, accepting the Grammy for Best Historical Album for ‘Joni Mitchell Archives – Volume 4: The Asylum Years – 1976-1980’, accessorised her outfit with the now-iconic “ICE Out” pin.

Jazz singer Samara Joy: Speaking up for the voiceless

Jazz sensation Samara Joy, who won Best Jazz Vocal Album for ‘Portrait’ before the televised show, also wore the “ICE Out” pin. She explained her reasoning to ‘Variety’: “Now is not the time to get super down or downtrodden about what’s going on, but to speak up and speak out for those who can’t at the moment. It’s the least I could do.”

Justin Vernon honours Minneapolis activists

Bon Iver founder Justin Vernon brought a different kind of symbolism to the event. Wearing a whistle pin, he paid tribute to Minneapolis observers who “blow the whistle when they see ICE come in.”

Speaking to ‘Variety’, Vernon explained, “They are there to protect their community and they’ve been doing it for weeks… The real work is in the streets of Minneapolis right now, and I’m here to honor them.”

He recounted the recent death of Alex Pretti, one of the US citizens killed by ICE, saying that seeing grassroots activism rekindle hope inspired him to attend the Grammys and amplify their work.

A video has surfaced on social media showing people outside Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York Mayor Zohran, yelling “That’s right, we know about your mom,” after the US Justice Department released new Jeffrey Epstein-related records that mentioned his mother, filmmaker Mira Nair.

The locals were heard shouting “shame.” They added, “Now listen. We were with you, Zohran. We voted for you, Zohran. We advocated for you, Zohran. You get up in here and lie to us!”

The incident was reported after the newly released documents showed an email dated October 21, 2009, sent by publicist Peggy Siegal to Jeffrey Epstein after Mamdani’s film-director mother Mira Nair left an afterparty at convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell’s house for her film “Amelia.”

“Just left Ghislaine’s townhouse…after party for film,” the publicist’s email read as reported by New York Post.

Furthermore, the email stated that Maxwell’s party was also attended by former President Bill Clinton and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos. It read: “Bill Clinton and Jeff Bezos were there…Jean Pigozzi, director Mira Nair…etc. Film received tepid reaction though women like it much more…Hillary Swank and [Richard] Gere are at stupid party in Bloomingdales cheap sportswear department…very weird.”

Last week, the US Department of Justice had released to the public over three million pages of FBI documents, including 2,000 videos and 1,80,000 images.

This is the latest release after a period of six weeks when the department missed a legal deadline set by President Donald Trump, who signed a law mandating that all Epstein-related documents be shared with the public.

Maxwell, Epstein’s former partner was convicted of sex trafficking a minor and other charges and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Mira Nair’s 2009 biopic “Amelia,” stars Hilary Swank as an aviator and Richard Gere as her husband, publisher George Putnam.

The Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) has raised sharp questions over the future of the Nationalist Congress Party following the swearing-in of Sunetra Pawar as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister.

In an editorial published in its mouthpiece Saamana, the Thackeray faction described the NCP as a party adrift. It likened the situation to a boat caught in a storm, without a navigator, and driven by an engine controlled elsewhere.

The editorial said the appointment, which came soon after the death of Ajit Pawar, has deepened political uncertainty in the state.

‘A second shock’ after Ajit Pawar’s death

According to Saamana, Maharashtra had not yet absorbed the shock of Ajit Pawar’s demise when what it called a “second shock” followed.

It alleged that political manoeuvres by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis led to Sunetra Pawar’s oath-taking before the mourning period had ended.

“Before the ashes of Ajit Pawar’s funeral pyre could even cool, Sunetra Ajit Pawar took the oath as Deputy Chief Minister,” the editorial said.

Public reactions, it noted, were divided. Some welcomed Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister. Others questioned the timing and the process.

The editorial argued that the post was not earned through “individual administrative merit” and asked who had orchestrated the move.

Sharad Pawar, it said, responded with restraint.

“I have no information regarding Sunetra Pawar’s swearing-in. Her party is independent, and after Ajit Pawar, people like Patel and Tatkare are handling the reins,” he was quoted as saying.

Leadership vacuum and fears of drift

The editorial said Ajit Pawar’s death created a vacuum within the party. It cited NCP minister Hasan Mushrif’s claim that Sunetra Pawar was elevated quickly to prevent workers and MLAs from drifting away.

Even if that argument is accepted, Saamana questioned the haste.

It said holding a celebratory oath ceremony during the mourning period did not align with the “Sanatani” framework the BJP claims to uphold.

The piece also pointed to internal tensions. It spoke of a power struggle between Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare, and claimed Sunetra Pawar was placed in position to prevent the party from falling fully under one camp’s control.

“The captain of the boat has gone into the open sea,” the editorial said. “The engine of this boat belongs to Fadnavis, and the ‘remote’ for that engine is also with Fadnavis.”

A test that leads to 2029

Looking ahead, Saamana framed the 2029 Assembly elections as Sunetra Pawar’s real test.

It predicted that the BJP would contest the polls on its own strength and suggested that many MLAs from the Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar factions could migrate to the BJP before then.

To avoid becoming a “ceremonial” figure, the editorial said, Sunetra Pawar would need to demonstrate leadership, public outreach, and independence — traits it associated with Ajit Pawar’s political style.

“If she chooses to work effectively rather than being a ‘silent doll’, she may become an obstacle for Patel, Tatkare, and Bhujbal,” it said.

The editorial ended on a bleak note.

“Mourning periods come and go,” it said. “Politics never stops — even if it has become truly wretched.”

The office of Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has released a list naming 2,986 people killed during recent unrest in the country.

In a statement posted on its website on Sunday (local time), the president’s office said the list, which includes both civilians and security personnel, was compiled from data provided by the Iranian Legal Medicine Organisation at Pezeshkian’s order.

The office said the total death toll stands at 3,117, meaning 131 victims remain unidentified. It pledged to release a supplementary list once the identities are established, reports Xinhua news agency.

The statement emphasised a commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that all victims were children of Iran and pledging that no bereaved family would be left unheard.

Weeks of protests over the sharp depreciation of the rial swept cities across Iran from late December to January. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations escalated into clashes that caused casualties and damage to public property, including mosques, government buildings, and banks. Tehran has blamed the unrest on the United States and Israel.

Iran’s Army Chief Amir Hatami last week warned that if the United States makes any mistake, it will definitely jeopardise its own security and that of Israel and the entire West Asia region, according to the official news agency IRNA.

Speaking at a national festival in Tehran, Hatami emphasised the Iranian armed forces’ readiness amid escalating tensions with Washington.

“Today, the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are in complete defence and military readiness and closely monitoring the enemy’s movements in the region. We have our finger on the trigger,” he said.

He added that “If the enemy makes any mistake, it will undoubtedly jeopardise its own security and that of Israel and the region.”

He also welcomed neighbouring countries’ announcements that they will not allow their territory or airspace to be used against Iran, noting these countries “know any insecurity against Iran will make the entire region insecure.”

Hatami emphasised that if the other side is willing to resolve the problem, it should treat the Iranian nation with respect.

The warning came amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington. US President Donald Trump earlier said that a “massive armada,” led by the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln, is heading towards Iran, warning that “time is running out” for Tehran to reach a deal with the United States.

Meanwhile, Trump said on Sunday that if Tehran fails to strike a nuclear deal with Washington, “we will find out” whether Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was right to warn that a US attack could ignite a regional war.

Khamenei said at a meeting in Tehran earlier on Sunday that if the United States starts a war against Iran, “it will be a regional war.”

The Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) has forecast moderate rainfall in Western Ghats districts on Monday, influenced by the presence of multiple low-pressure systems over adjoining sea regions.

According to officials, a low-level cyclonic circulation is currently active over the southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining areas of the Lakshadweep and Kerala coasts. In addition, another low-level cyclonic circulation has formed over the Comorin Sea and nearby regions.

These atmospheric conditions are expected to significantly influence weather patterns across parts of southern India. As a result of these systems, moderate rainfall is likely in districts along the Western Ghats.

Weather experts have advised residents in these regions to remain cautious, particularly in hilly and landslide-prone areas, as intermittent rain could affect daily activities and travel.

The Meteorological Department has also issued a fog advisory for several interior districts. From Monday until the 5th of this month, moderate fog conditions are expected during the early morning hours in Krishnagiri, Tirupattur, Vellore, Ranipet, Nilgiris, and Dindigul districts.

Visibility may be reduced in these areas, and motorists have been advised to drive with caution, especially during the early hours of the day.

Meanwhile, Chennai is expected to experience relatively stable weather conditions. The sky over the city is likely to remain partly cloudy throughout the day. The minimum temperature in the Tamil Nadu capital is forecast to hover around 23 degrees Celsius, providing relatively pleasant conditions compared to the cooler and wetter interior regions.

Weather officials stated that while no extreme weather warnings have been issued at present, the evolving nature of the low-pressure systems will be closely monitored.

Any significant changes in rainfall intensity or wind patterns will be communicated promptly through official advisories.

Residents across affected districts are advised to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

Fishermen along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coasts have also been urged to remain alert, as sea conditions may vary due to the prevailing cyclonic circulations.

The current weather pattern highlights the seasonal transition phase, during which fluctuations in rainfall, fog, and temperature are commonly observed across southern India.

Josephine Review: The new crown jewel at Sundance 2026 is Beth de Araújo’s ‘Josephine’. This film punches you in the gut while whispering in your ear. If her last feature ‘Soft & Quiet’ was a piercing jab, this one is the cinematic haymaker we didn’t know we were waiting for.

At the heart of this story is Josephine (played with astonishing depth by newcomer Mason Reeves), an eight-year-old whose childhood is ripped open in a way no child should ever experience. We meet her in sunny San Francisco running in Golden Gate Park with her father Damien (Channing Tatum). A normal, playful morning spirals into horror when Josephine witnesses sexual assault.

What’s terrifying about ‘Josephine’ isn’t just the act itself. It’s the emotional aftermath. Araújo forces us into the mind of a child trying to make sense of something adults often can’t either. Josephine’s reactions (numbness, confusion, bursts of anger) feel authentic because they’re grounded in reality. Araújo herself witnessed a similar incident as a child giving the film a haunting autobiographical edge. I might have skipped the film, had it been directed by a man.

Also Read: Daldal Review: Bhumi Pednekar fights crime, trauma, and weak writing in an uneven cop saga

Trauma that lingers

This isn’t a film where the attack is quickly addressed and then neatly forgotten. Araújo lets it breathe letting the audience sit in the unbearable tension of Josephine’s world. The camera rarely leaves her perspective. Often low-angled, intimate, and sometimes blurry. This mimicks a child’s skewed and fragile understanding of reality.

You see the adult world but through the foggy lens of someone too young to process it, and every misstep her parents make feels magnified in her eyes.

Her father Damien is a study in tough love. Tatum leans into a type we think we know: playful, loving, slightly flawed. But Araújo adds layers. Damien wants to guide Josephine, but he’s stumbling through uncharted territory.

Claire (Gemma Chan), the mother, is quieter, almost elusive. Her approach is subtle and measured. The film wisely doesn’t dwell on their histories. Instead, we witness the parent-child dynamic unfold in real time.

Silence isn’t neglect. It’s a reflection of confusion, fear, love in crisis. We learnt this once we started empathising with our mothers.

The weight of experiencing

There’s a moment early in the film when Josephine locks eyes with both victim and perpetrator during the assault. That fleeting gaze is a moment you won’t forget. It’s raw and unfiltered. There is a girl grappling with knowledge too heavy for her age.

As days pass, Josephine’s imagination turns against her. She begins to see the attacker everywhere, even in her bedroom as if her mind is refusing to let go. These creeping hallucinations are subtle but devastating. Araújo doesn’t sensationalise the trauma; she immerses you in it.

Mason Reeves is a star

It’s impossible to talk about ‘Josephine’ without giving credit to Mason Reeves. For a child actor to carry the weight of such a story is nearly unheard of. But Reeves is nothing short of miraculous. She conveys the confusion, fear, and nascent rage of a child forced to confront adult horrors. Her performance is a study in restraint and intensity switching between silence and outburst, vulnerability, volatility.

Reeves is a living, breathing lens through which we confront the darker edges of our society. By the time the credits roll, the performance lingers longer than any dialogue or visual flourish.

Beth de Araújo has a rare gift. She wields fearlessness as her superpower. Her direction is unflinching, yet careful, measured, humane. Many filmmakers might rely solely on the performances to carry a story of this intensity. But Araújo builds a cinematic world that heightens emotional resonance.

The parents’ dilemma

One of the film’s most haunting aspects is parents’ struggle. Damien wants to be strong for his daughter. He falters in words and actions. Claire’s quieter approach highlights gendered nuances of caregiving.

The film doesn’t judge them. It asks the audience to consider near-impossible task of guiding a child through a trauma that is often mishandled or ignored by the system.

This delicate balance is part of what makes ‘Josephine’ so compelling. Araújo refuses to offer easy answers. She gives us a truth. Life is messy, adults are flawed, and children bear the brunt of our collective failures.

And, more…

The film flirts with the aesthetics of a ghost story without ever crossing into the supernatural. Its visions of attacker in everyday spaces evoke sense of haunting and trauma. We have grown up in such spaces. The terror is grounded in reality. This makes it all the more visceral.

Cinematographer Greta Zozula captures this beautifully. The camera lingers on small moments. A trembling hand, a glance over a shoulder, an empty playground. Mundane settings are sites of tension.

Social commentary without preachiness

At its core, ‘Josephine’ is commentary on how society treats trauma and witnesses. Children are expected to understand more than they can (been there, done that). Legal and social systems are woefully unprepared to support them. Araújo’s autobiographical touch makes this critique deeply personal and also universally resonant.

The film doesn’t moralise. It presents reality and lets us confront it. It’s a rare blend of empathy and honesty that gives the story emotional teeth. By focusing on Josephine’s perspective, Araújo is telling the world how trauma is lived, seen, felt.

It’s no surprise that ‘Josephine’ swept the 2026 Sundance Film Festival winning both Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award. The accolades are well-earned.

The anti-coming-of-age story

Unlike conventional coming-of-age films that celebrate discovery, friendship, joy of growing up, ‘Josephine’ subverts the genre entirely. Yes, growing up is traumatic, confusing, morally complicated. Childhood innocence is interrupted and replaced with burden of adult realities.

And yet, the film is not hopeless. There are moments of tenderness, small acts of parental love, fleeting glimpses of Josephine’s resilience. They try to create bittersweet counterpoint to pervasive darkness. Araújo doesn’t offer a fairy-tale resolution. But she offers a glimpse of understanding and the possibility of healing.

Watching ‘Josephine’ is an emotional tightrope. You want to look away from the horror, but this is the lived reality of so many of us. The film breaks down an unimaginably difficult topic piece by piece. It forces audiences to confront ugly truths about violence, justice, childhood vulnerability.

It’s a gut-punch wrapped in a hug. It is worth every shiver and tear. Watch it!