15 January - Martin Luther King Jr Day

 

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday is observed on the third Monday of January each year, close to Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday on January 15. The day is an occasion to celebrate and remember the achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. in the fight for civil rights and equality.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a key figure in the American civil rights movement, advocating for nonviolent resistance against racial segregation and discrimination. He played a pivotal role in various civil rights events, including the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the March on Washington, where he delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time for reflection, service, and community involvement. Many people engage in volunteer activities, community events, and educational programs to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. It is also a day to promote equality, justice, and civil rights for all. The holiday was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and was first observed as a federal holiday on January 20, 1986.

15 January - KM Cariappa became the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army

 

Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa was the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding General Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief.on 15 January 1949. This significant event marked the transition from the British military leadership to Indian leadership in the Indian Army. Cariappa played a crucial role in shaping the early post-independence Indian Army and is remembered for his contributions to the military.

15 January - Pongal

 

Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and in other parts of South India. The festival is dedicated to the Sun God and is a thanksgiving ceremony for the abundance of the harvest. Pongal typically takes place from January 14th to January 17th each year, coinciding with the auspicious month of Thai in the Tamil calendar.

Key features of the Pongal festival include:

1. Bhogi Pongal: The festival begins with Bhogi Pongal on January 14th, where people discard old belongings and celebrate the cleansing of the past.

2. Thai Pongal: The main day of Pongal, Thai Pongal, is celebrated on January 15th. On this day, people cook a special dish called Pongal, a sweet rice dish made with newly harvested rice, jaggery, and milk. The dish is traditionally cooked in earthen pots outdoors, symbolizing prosperity.

3. Maattu Pongal: The day after Thai Pongal is known as Maattu Pongal, where cattle, particularly cows and bulls, are honored for their contribution to farming.

4. Kaanum Pongal: The festival concludes with Kaanum Pongal on January 17th, a day when people visit friends and relatives to share the festive spirit.

5. Decorations: Homes are adorned with kolams (intricate patterns made with rice flour), and traditional music and dance performances are part of the celebrations.

6. Traditional Attire: People often wear traditional clothing, and women may decorate their hair with flowers.

Pongal is a time for families to come together, express gratitude for the harvest, and seek blessings for prosperity in the coming year. The festival reflects the rich cultural and agricultural heritage of the region.

 

15 January - Pin Code Week

 

The pin code week is celebrated every year from 15th of January to the 21st of January to distribute the message about pin code importance. Every document has a small rectangular box which again has six partitions to fill up the pin code number of the particular place. This box is generally ignored by the people and left unfilled. This small box represents a steering wheel of the letter for the postal department.

What is a PIN code

The full form of the PIN is Postal Index Number which is known by the name pin code or pin number. Pin code is a 6 digit’s unique number which has been allotted to the post offices. It helps a lot in delivering the mail all over the India. This pin code denotes the real address and ensures where the letter has to be reached.

 

How does PIN code work

To work the pin code system very well, the whole country has been divided into the eight PIN zones. States of the country is indicated by the particular number and direction wise such as:
Number 1 denotes the Northern pin jones like Haryana, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir.
Number 2 denotes the other Northern pin jones like Uttar Pradesh and Uttaranchal.
Number 3 denotes the Western pin jones like Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Number 4 denotes the other Western pin jones like Maharastra, Chattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh.
Number 5 denotes the Southern pin jones like Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
Number 6 denotes the other Southern pin jones like Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Number 7 denotes the Eastern pin jones like Orissa, West Bengal and North Eastern.
Number 8 denotes the other Eastern pin jones like Bihar and Jharkand.
As pin code is a number of six digits, first digit indicates pin zones (states or region), second and third digits indicates district (where the delivering post office is located), next three digits indicates the exact post office (where the letter is to be sent).

History of PIN code

Pin code system was first opened to the public on 1st of April in the year 1774. At that time it was of only 3 pin jones such as Bengal (whole Eastern and Northern regions), Madras (whole Southern regions) and Bombay (rest of the regions). After becoming an independent India, pin code system was divided into eight pin jones.

(Ref : http://www.indiacelebrating.com/events/pin-code-week/ & http://www.ninetiesgang.com/)

The Pentagon headquarters of the United States Department of Defense office building, opens in 1943

 

The Pentagon, which is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, officially opened on 15 January 1943. It is located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The construction of the Pentagon began in 1941 and was completed during World War II. The building serves as the central command center for the U.S. military and is one of the largest office buildings in the world.

The Pentagon has five sides, five floors above ground, two basement levels, and a total of approximately 6.5 million square feet of office space. It houses the offices of the U.S. Department of Defense leadership, various military branches, and numerous military and civilian personnel. The building symbolizes the strength and organization of the U.S. military and has become an iconic structure in the United States.

 

15 January - Indian Army Day

Indian Army Day is celebrated annually on January 15th. It commemorates the day when Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa took over as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. The day is observed to honor the soldiers of the Indian Army and their remarkable contributions to the nation.

Key aspects of Indian Army Day:

1. Historical Significance:

   • Indian Army Day marks the official recognition of Lieutenant General K. M. Cariappa as the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding General Sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in-Chief.

2. Parades and Ceremonies:

   • To celebrate the occasion, the Indian Army conducts parades, military shows, and other events at the Army Day Parade Ground in Delhi and other military stations across the country.

3. Tribute to Soldiers:

   • The day serves as an opportunity to pay tribute to the Indian soldiers who have sacrificed their lives to safeguard the country's sovereignty and protect its citizens.

4. Showcasing Military Strength:

   • The Indian Army uses this day to showcase its military strength, equipment, and capabilities through various displays and demonstrations. It is also an occasion to demonstrate the preparedness and professionalism of the armed forces.

5. Public Awareness:

   • Army Day helps in creating public awareness about the importance of the Indian Army and the challenges it faces in maintaining national security.

6. Wreath-Laying Ceremony:

   • A solemn wreath-laying ceremony is often organized at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate, in New Delhi. This memorial flame symbolizes the immortal soldier and is a tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.

7. Recognition of Gallantry Awards:

   • On Army Day, gallantry awards, including the Param Vir Chakra and the Ashoka Chakra, may be conferred upon deserving military personnel for their exceptional courage and bravery.

Indian Army Day serves as a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice of the Indian Army in safeguarding the nation's interests and maintaining peace and security. It is a day to express gratitude to the soldiers and their families for their immense contributions and sacrifices.

15 January - Seán MacBride death anniversary

 

Seán MacBride (1904–1988) was an Irish statesman, diplomat, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. He played a significant role in Irish and international politics, and his career spanned various areas, including law, human rights, and disarmament. Here are some key aspects of Seán MacBride's life and career:

1. Early Life and Family:

   • Born on 26 January 1904, in Paris, France, MacBride came from a prominent Irish republican family. His father, Major John MacBride, was one of the leaders executed after the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin.

2. Education and Legal Career:

   • MacBride studied law at University College Dublin and later became a barrister. He practiced law in Ireland and played a role in defending political prisoners.

3. Involvement in the IRA:

   • MacBride was involved with the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during the Irish War of Independence. He later became the Chief of Staff of the IRA in 1936.

4. International Career:

   • After World War II, MacBride shifted his focus to international affairs. He became involved with the United Nations and was instrumental in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

5. Founding of Amnesty International:

   • MacBride was one of the co-founders of Amnesty International in 1961. This organization became a leading advocate for human rights worldwide.

6. Irish Government Roles:

   • He served in various Irish government positions, including Minister for External Affairs (1951–1954) and Minister of Justice (1957–1959).

7. Nobel Peace Prize:

   • In 1974, Seán MacBride, along with Eisaku Sato, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in the area of disarmament.

8. President of the International Peace Bureau:

   • MacBride served as the President of the International Peace Bureau, a global organization dedicated to promoting peace, from 1974 to 1985.

Seán MacBride's contributions to human rights, disarmament, and international peace earned him recognition and respect on the global stage. His multifaceted career reflected a commitment to justice and the promotion of human dignity. Seán MacBride passed away on 15 January 1988.

 

15 January - Artturi Ilmari Virtanen birth anniversary

 

Artturi Ilmari Virtanen (1895–1973) was a Finnish chemist and Nobel laureate known for his significant contributions to biochemistry. He was born on 15 January 1895, in Helsinki, Finland, and passed away on 11 November 1973.

Virtanen's most notable work was in the field of agricultural and food chemistry. He developed a method for preserving green fodder, known as the AIV (Artturi Ilmari Virtanen) method, which involved treating silage with dilute solutions of acids. This innovation revolutionized the preservation of animal feed, particularly during times when fresh forage was not readily available.

In recognition of his groundbreaking work, Artturi Ilmari Virtanen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1945. The Nobel Committee specifically acknowledged his research on the fermentation of agricultural products and his discoveries concerning the effects of vitamins on animal physiology.

Apart from his scientific contributions, Virtanen also had a notable career in academia and public service. He served as a professor of biochemistry at the University of Helsinki and was involved in various scientific and administrative roles in Finland.

Artturi Ilmari Virtanen's legacy extends beyond his individual achievements, as his research had a lasting impact on agriculture and food preservation, benefiting both animal nutrition and human health.

15 January - Asiatic Society of Bengal was founded

 

The Asiatic Society of Bengal, founded in 1784, was one of the earliest learned societies established in British India. It played a crucial role in the promotion and dissemination of knowledge related to the history, culture, and sciences of Asia. The society was founded by Sir William Jones, a philologist, Orientalist, and jurist who was well-versed in several ancient and modern languages.

Key points about the Asiatic Society of Bengal:

1. Foundation: The society was established on 15 January  1784, in Calcutta (now Kolkata), during the British East India Company's rule.

2. Founding Members: Sir William Jones was the driving force behind the establishment of the society, and he served as its first president. Other notable founding members included Warren Hastings, the Governor-General of India at the time.

3. Objectives: The Asiatic Society of Bengal aimed to encourage and promote the study of the languages, literature, history, and antiquities of Asia. It played a crucial role in the translation and study of ancient Indian texts.

4. Journal: The society published a scholarly journal titled "Asiatick Researches," which contained articles, research papers, and translations of important Asian texts. This journal contributed significantly to the understanding of Asian cultures and civilizations.

5. Contributions to Linguistics: The society played a vital role in the study and understanding of various Asian languages. Sir William Jones, a polyglot, made notable contributions to comparative linguistics and is famous for proposing the concept of the Indo-European language family.

6. Archaeological and Numismatic Research: The Asiatic Society of Bengal was also involved in archaeological and numismatic research. It conducted excavations and studies to uncover and document historical artifacts.

7. Later Developments: The Asiatic Society of Bengal later merged with the Bengal Literary Society in 1808, forming the Asiatic Society of Bengal and Literary Society of Bengal. Over the years, the society underwent further changes and reorganizations.

The Asiatic Society of Bengal laid the foundation for the study of Asian cultures and languages and played a crucial role in the development of oriental studies during the colonial period in India.

 

15 January - Saifuddin Kitchlew birth anniversary

 

Saifuddin Kitchlew was a prominent Indian freedom fighter known for his involvement in the Indian independence movement. He was born on 15 January 1888, in Amritsar, Punjab, India, and passed away on 09 October 1963.

Kitchlew played a significant role in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre of 1919, a tragic event in Indian history. He was one of the leaders who organized a public meeting in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, to protest against repressive British laws. The British colonial administration, under the command of General Reginald Dyer, responded by ordering troops to open fire on the peaceful gathering, resulting in hundreds of innocent deaths and injuries.

Kitchlew's activism and leadership in the freedom struggle continued throughout his life. He was associated with various political organizations, including the Indian National Congress, and actively participated in campaigns for India's independence from British colonial rule.

Saifuddin Kitchlew's contributions to India's struggle for freedom and his courage in the face of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre are remembered and honored in Indian history. His legacy serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals like him in the pursuit of India's independence.

15 January - Uttarayan festival

 

Uttarayan, also known as Makar Sankranti, is a Hindu festival celebrated in India and Nepal. It marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makar in Hindi), and it usually falls on January 14th or 15th. The festival signifies the end of winter and the beginning of longer days.

One of the main traditions during Uttarayan is the flying of kites. People, especially in the western Indian state of Gujarat, engage in friendly kite-flying competitions, known as "patang bazi" or "kite battles." The sky is filled with colorful kites, and participants try to cut the strings of each other's kites.

In addition to kite flying, people also prepare and enjoy traditional sweets made from sesame seeds and jaggery, such as tilgul (sesame and jaggery sweets). It is a time for family gatherings, feasts, and various cultural events.

Uttarayan is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy across different regions of India, each with its own unique customs and traditions.

 

15 January - Makar Sankranti

 

 

 

 

Makar Sankranti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Makara (Capricorn). It usually falls on January 14th, although the date can vary slightly. The festival marks the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days.

Key features of Makar Sankranti include:

1. Harvest Festival: Makar Sankranti is primarily a harvest festival, celebrating the abundance of crops. It is observed in different forms across various regions of India, with different names and customs.

2. Kite Flying: Kite flying is a significant tradition during Makar Sankranti, especially in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan. People engage in friendly kite-flying competitions, and the sky is filled with colorful kites.

3. Bonfires: In some regions, people light bonfires during Makar Sankranti, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of longer days.

4. Special Foods: Various special foods are prepared during the festival, often using newly harvested crops. In many regions, people prepare and share sweets made from sesame seeds, jaggery, and other ingredients.

5. Holy Dip: Taking a holy dip in rivers, especially the Ganges, is considered auspicious on Makar Sankranti. Pilgrims gather at sacred riverbanks to bathe and offer prayers.

6. Religious Significance: Makar Sankranti holds religious significance, and people often visit temples to seek blessings for the new season and express gratitude for the harvest.

Different states in India have their unique ways of celebrating Makar Sankranti, and the festival is known by various names, such as Pongal in Tamil Nadu, Magh Bihu in Assam, and Uttarayan in Gujarat. The diversity in celebrations reflects the cultural richness of the country.

15 January - Elizabeth I crowned queen of England.

 

Elizabeth I, the daughter of King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, was indeed crowned Queen of England. However, her coronation took place on 15 January 1559, Elizabeth I ascended to the throne on November 17, 1558, following the death of her sister, Queen Mary I.

Elizabeth I's coronation was a significant event, marking the beginning of a long and prosperous reign known as the Elizabethan era. Her rule was characterized by relative stability, economic growth, cultural flourishing, and England's emergence as a major European power.