15 August - National Mourning Day Bangladesh

 

National Mourning Day is a solemn observance in Bangladesh held on August 15th every year to commemorate the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh. This day is a time for reflection, mourning, and paying tribute to Sheikh Mujib and the victims of the 1975 coup d'état.

On August 15, 1975, a group of military officers carried out a coup that resulted in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and most of his family members. This tragic event had a profound impact on the nation, and National Mourning Day is observed as a day of mourning, reflection, and remembrance.

The observances on National Mourning Day typically include:

1. Flag Lowering: The national flag is flown at half-mast as a sign of respect and mourning.

2. Public Mourning: People gather at various locations, including the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (the National Parliament House) in Dhaka, where Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's tomb is located. Special prayers and tributes are offered to honor his memory.

3. TV and Radio Programs: Television and radio stations broadcast special programs, documentaries, and films about the life and contributions of Sheikh Mujib.

4. Newspaper Articles and Features: Newspapers and media outlets publish articles, features, and editorials reflecting on Sheikh Mujib's legacy and the significance of the day.

5. Candlelight Vigils: Candlelight vigils may be held in some places to remember the victims and to emphasize the ideals and principles for which Sheikh Mujib stood.

6. Discussion Panels and Seminars: Public seminars, discussions, and educational events are organized to discuss Sheikh Mujib's role in the nation's history and his contributions to the independence of Bangladesh.

National Mourning Day is a somber occasion for Bangladeshis to honor and remember Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's vision for the nation, his role in its liberation, and his dedication to social justice and democracy. It is also a time to reflect on the challenges the nation has faced and the need to uphold the values for which he stood.

15 August - Sri Aurobindo Ghosh birth anniversary

 

Sri Aurobindo Ghosh (1872–1950) was born on 15 August 1872 in Calcutta, India, and his luminous life journey concluded on 05 December 1950. A multifaceted visionary, philosopher, poet, and spiritual leader, Aurobindo Ghosh left an indelible mark on India's cultural and spiritual landscape.

Aurobindo's early years were marked by academic brilliance, and he went on to study in England, where he developed a deep understanding of Western thought and culture. However, his return to India saw a transformation in his pursuits. He transitioned from a political activist advocating for India's independence to a spiritual luminary dedicated to the inner evolution of humanity.

Establishing the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in the French colonial town of Pondicherry, Aurobindo delved into intense yogic practices and meditation, aiming to uplift human consciousness. His teachings emphasized the synthesis of Eastern and Western spiritual traditions, advocating for a harmonious blend of the material and the spiritual.

Through his profound writings, including philosophical treatises and poetry, Aurobindo expounded on the evolution of human consciousness and the realization of a divine potential within each individual. His philosophy of Integral Yoga sought to integrate the mundane and the transcendent, guiding followers toward a holistic transformation.

Sri Aurobindo's influence extended beyond his lifetime, inspiring countless seekers and guiding them towards self-realization and spiritual growth. His legacy lives on through the continued work of the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and his writings, which continue to illuminate the path of inner awakening and higher consciousness for generations to come.

15 August - The Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) gained independence 1960

 

On August 14, 1960, the Republic of the Congo (also known as Congo-Brazzaville) gained its independence from French colonial rule. This day marked an important milestone in the history of the country, as it became a sovereign nation after decades of colonization.

The Republic of the Congo is located in Central Africa and is bordered by several countries, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. Upon gaining independence, Fulbert Youlou became the country's first President. However, the political landscape in the early years of independence was characterized by instability and power struggles.

The Republic of the Congo has undergone significant political changes and challenges since its independence, including changes in leadership, civil conflicts, and periods of military rule. The country's history has been shaped by its efforts to establish stability, promote development, and manage its rich natural resources.

Please note that the Republic of the Congo should not be confused with the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo, which is a separate country with its own distinct history and timeline of events.

15 August - Partition Remembrance Day

 

August 15th is observed as Partition Remembrance Day, marking the day when India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947 and was simultaneously partitioned into two separate nations, India and Pakistan.

The partition of India resulted in massive communal violence, displacement, and loss of life. Millions of people were uprooted from their homes, and countless families were torn apart. The horrors of partition left a lasting impact on the people of the subcontinent, and the wounds of that period continue to be remembered and reflected upon.

On this day, people in India and Pakistan may hold events, discussions, and commemorations to remember the pain and suffering caused by partition. Many families have personal stories of the partition, and these stories are often shared to ensure that the memories of that tumultuous period are not forgotten.

Partition Horrors Remembrance Day is an annual national memorial day observed on 14 August in India, commemorating the victims and sufferings of people during the 1947 partition of India. It was first observed in 2021, after announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

15 August - Mahadev Hari Bhai Desai

 

Mahadev Haribhai Desai (1 January 1892 – 15 August 1942) was an Indian independence activist, scholar and writer best remembered as Mahatma Gandhi's personal secretary. He has variously been described as "Gandhi's Boswell, a Plato to Gandhi's Socrates, as well as an Ānanda to Gandhi's Buddha"

15 August - Day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

 

The Day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, also known as the Feast of the Assumption, is a significant religious observance in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken bodily into Heaven at the end of her earthly life. The Assumption is a dogma of the Catholic Church, and it is also celebrated by various Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Anglican churches, though the details and emphasis of the celebration may vary among different Christian traditions.

The Assumption of Mary is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, but it has been a longstanding tradition in Christian theology and piety. The exact origins of the feast are not entirely clear, but it has been celebrated in various forms since the early centuries of Christianity.

The feast is typically observed on August 15th in the Roman Catholic Church and many other Christian denominations that celebrate it. It is considered a major feast day and a holy day of obligation for Catholics, meaning that Catholics are expected to attend Mass on this day.

15 August - National Liberation Day of South Korea

 

The National Liberation Day of South Korea, also known as Gwangbokjeol (광복절) in Korean, is celebrated on August 15th each year. It commemorates the day in 1945 when Korea was liberated from Japanese colonial rule, following Japan's surrender at the end of World War II.

Gwangbokjeol is a significant and joyous national holiday in South Korea, marked by various events, ceremonies, and celebrations. It holds deep historical and cultural importance as it symbolizes the restoration of Korea's sovereignty and independence after years of Japanese occupation.

On this day, South Koreans engage in a variety of activities to celebrate their nation's freedom and honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for independence. These activities may include:

1. Ceremonies and Speeches: Government officials and leaders give speeches and participate in ceremonies to commemorate the liberation and pay tribute to the heroes of the independence movement.

2. Parades and Performances: Colorful parades, cultural performances, and traditional music and dance displays are held in various cities across the country. These events showcase South Korea's rich cultural heritage and celebrate its newfound freedom.

3. Flag Raising: The South Korean flag, known as the Taegeukgi, is raised in public spaces to symbolize the country's sovereignty and independence.

4. Fireworks and Festivals: Fireworks displays and festive gatherings take place, providing an opportunity for people to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the holiday spirit.

5. Exhibitions and Historical Displays: Museums and historical sites may organize special exhibitions and displays to educate the public about the struggles and achievements of the independence movement.

Gwangbokjeol is a day of national unity and pride, allowing South Koreans to reflect on their history and the resilience of their people. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining freedom, democracy, and peace in the country.

15 August - National Liberation Day of North Korea

 

The National Liberation Day of North Korea, also known as Chogukhaebangŭi nal (조국해방의 날) in Korean, is celebrated on August 15th each year. It commemorates the day in 1945 when Korea was liberated from Japanese colonial rule, marking the end of World War II and the subsequent surrender of Japan.

On this day, various events and ceremonies are held in North Korea to honor the liberation and remember the struggles and sacrifices made during the Japanese occupation. These celebrations often include speeches, performances, parades, and other activities that highlight the country's history, culture, and achievements.

It's important to note that the way this holiday is observed and portrayed in North Korea might be different from how it is perceived outside the country. The North Korean government uses this occasion to promote its own narrative of the liberation and to emphasize the role of its leaders in the fight against Japanese imperialism.

15 August - Taj Mahal stamp released in 1949

 

 

The Taj Mahal is one of the seven wonders of the world and is a beautiful ivory-white marble mausoleum situated at the banks of Yamuna river in Agra. It was built by the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan in 1632 as a tomb of his wife Mumtaz. The tomb comprises of a mosque, a guest house and gardens with a separated walls on three sides. Though the work was completed in 1643, more phases of the project went on for 10 years. 32 million rupees were spent on constructing this and some 20,000 artisans were employed under the leading architect, Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. It was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.