The Times of India Watch: Spectacular fireworks light up sky across the globe on New Year

The world welcomed 2025 with grand celebrations. China showcased a spectacular drone show, London had mesmerizing fireworks despite stormy weather, and UAE’s Abu Dhabi and Dubai lit up the sky. Singapore’s Marina Bay and New Zealand’s Auckland hosted stunning displays. Sydney impressed with its iconic fireworks, while New York, Pasadena, Nashville, and Mumbai celebrated with traditional and vibrant festivities.

The Times of India 'Openly distributing money': Kejriwal writes to RSS, asks whether it supports BJP

Arvind Kejriwal has questioned Mohan Bhagwat about BJP's practices affecting democracy, including vote-buying and voter manipulation. Kejriwal doubted if the RSS supports these actions. AAP spokesperson accused BJP leaders of deleting voters' names and offering money for votes in various constituencies, amidst escalating accusations as both parties gear up for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.

The Times of India 'We need smart people': Trump says he hasn't changed his mind on H-1B visas

US President-elect Donald Trump reaffirmed his stance on H-1B visas, emphasizing the need for competent and smart individuals in the country. He denied changing his opinion on the visas and highlighted their importance in bringing skilled workers to the US. Trump aligned with Elon Musk and commented on the necessity for visa holders amidst upcoming job growth.

The Times of India Will Mitchell Starc play or miss Sydney Test against India?

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc is expected to play the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar series despite a rib injury, according to teammate Alex Carey. Starc's fitness will be evaluated closer to the match, with Jhye Richardson ready to step in if needed.

The Times of India Delhi businessman, troubled by ongoing divorce case, dies by suicide

A business owner in Delhi, Puneet Khurana, allegedly died by suicide amid an ongoing divorce case with his wife. The incident occurred in the Model Town area. Puneet's family claims he was upset over the dispute, fueled by a conversation about their bakery business. Police are investigating the allegations and have questioned Puneet's wife.

The Times of India 'Without Jasprit Bumrah, BGT might have been more one-sided'

Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath praised Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah for his instrumental role in keeping the Border-Gavaskar Trophy competitive, citing his adaptability and control. McGrath highlighted Bumrah's unique hyper-extension and short run-up while emphasizing the talent pool in Indian cricket, including prospects like Prasidh Krishna and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The Times of India Explained: Why Carlsen, Nepo shared World Blitz title

In a historic decision, Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi chose to share the 2024 World Blitz Championship title after a series of intense and closely-fought games in New York. Following a tie in the sudden death rounds, FIDE and both players agreed on the unprecedented outcome, marking the first dual winners in the championship's history.

The Times of India Anand congratulates Vaishali on clinching World Blitz bronze

Indian chess prodigy Vaishali Rameshbabu secured a bronze medal at the 2024 World Blitz Championship in New York, praised by her mentor Viswanathan Anand. China's Ju Wenjun triumphed over Lei Tingjie, while the Open section title was shared by Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi after a tie in the finals.

The Times of India Grapes, ice, condoms…: What India ordered on New Year’s Eve on Blinkit, Swiggy

India welcomed 2025 with New Year's Eve house parties, driving high demand for snacks, beverages, and party supplies on Blinkit and Swiggy Instamart. Highlights included record orders for aloo bhujia, chips, and ice cubes. BigBasket noted significant spikes in ice cube and beverage sales, while top cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad led in delivery tips.

The Times of India Stock market today: BSE Sensex rises 100 points; Nifty50 near 23,650

Stock market today: Indian equity benchmark indices, BSE Sensex and Nifty50, opened in green on Wednesday, the first trading day of the New Year 2025. While BSE Sensex rose 100 points, Nifty50 was above 23,600.

The Times of India MS Dhoni reveals the best compliment he has received

Mahendra Singh Dhoni revealed the best compliment he's received came from his wife saying, 'you have done alright in life.' Despite accolades from cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Dhoni values his wife's words the most, showcasing his humility. His response highlights his effort to impress his wife above all.

The Times of India 5 of a family found murdered in Lucknow hotel, 1 held

The Times of India 'Success, endless joy': PM Modi extends New Year wishes for a prosperous 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu extend New Year greetings for 2025, emphasizing opportunities, health and prosperity. Celebrations occur nationwide with parties, cultural events, and fireworks. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and tourist spots such as Manali see large gatherings and vibrant festivities.

The Times of India Stock recommendations by brokers for January 1

The Times of India Criticising SA for WTC Final qualification isn’t fair: Pietersen

Kevin Pietersen criticises the World Test Championship qualification process after South Africa reached the 2025 final with fewer matches. He blames structural flaws, highlighting discrepancies as England, despite winning more games, rank sixth. He urges the ICC Chairman to address this issue, calling for urgent reforms to ensure fair competition.