02 February - Rajkumari Dame Bibiji Amrit Kaur

Rajkumari Dame Bibiji Amrit Kaur was born on 02 February 1889.

Dame Bibiji Rajkumari Amrit Kaur (1889–1964) was an Indian politician and social reformer. She was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in India. Amrit Kaur was born into the princely family of Kapurthala, and her title "Dame" was conferred upon her by the British government.

She was actively involved in social and political work, advocating for women's rights, education, and health. Amrit Kaur played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and worked closely with Mahatma Gandhi. She was associated with the Indian National Congress.

After India gained independence in 1947, Amrit Kaur served as the Health Minister in the first Cabinet of independent India under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru from 1947 to 1957. She also held the charge of the Ministry of Rehabilitation. Her contributions to public health and social welfare were noteworthy, and she played a key role in the establishment of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi.

Dame Amrit Kaur received several awards for her contributions, including the Padma Vibhushan, one of the highest civilian honors in India. She remained active in public life until her retirement. She passed away on 06 February 1964.

 

02 February - Ram Chandra was born

 

Ram Chandra (Lalaji) (2 February 1873 – 14 August 1931) was a spiritual guide from Fatehgarh Uttar Pradesh India. He was popularly known as "Lalaji" among his followers.He is said to have re-discovered the ancient Indian system of transmission called "Pranahuti" (offering of Prana) which is often referred to as “Pranasya Prana” (Life of Life) in the practice of meditation.After his passing, his disciples started many spiritual organizations like Shri Ram Chandra Mission and Ramashram Satsang.
 

02 February - The American Basketball Association was formed in 1967

 

The American Basketball Association (ABA) was formed on 02 February 1967. The ABA was a professional basketball league in the United States that operated from 1967 to 1976. It was established as a rival to the established National Basketball Association (NBA).

The ABA introduced several innovations to the game of basketball, including the three-point line and a red, white, and blue basketball. The league featured a faster-paced and more high-scoring style of play compared to the NBA at the time.

Notable players who began their careers in the ABA include Julius Erving (Dr. J) and George Gervin. The ABA-NBA merger took place in 1976, leading to the absorption of four ABA franchises into the NBA: the Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, New York Nets (later the New Jersey Nets and now the Brooklyn Nets), and San Antonio Spurs.

The ABA left a lasting impact on the sport of basketball, and some of its innovations, such as the three-point line, continue to be integral parts of the game today.

02 February - Constitution Day Philippines

 

The Philippines celebrates Constitution Day on February 2nd each year. Constitution Day commemorates the adoption of the 1987 Constitution of the Philippines.

The 1987 Constitution replaced the previous constitution and marked the return to democratic governance after a period of martial law under the rule of President Ferdinand Marcos. The new constitution was ratified in a plebiscite on February 2, 1987.

On Constitution Day, various activities and events are organized to promote awareness and understanding of the importance of the constitution in the Philippines' legal and political framework. It is a day to reflect on the principles of democracy, rule of law, and the protection of individual rights enshrined in the constitution.

 

02 February - Groundhog Day

 

Groundhog Day is a traditional North American holiday observed on February 2nd each year. The most famous Groundhog Day celebration takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil is said to predict the coming weather.

The tradition involves Phil emerging from his burrow. If he sees his shadow and retreats back into his burrow, it is believed that there will be six more weeks of winter. If he doesn't see his shadow, it is thought that spring will arrive early.

The origins of Groundhog Day can be traced back to European weather lore, where a badger or a bear was the prognosticator. The celebration has its roots in Candlemas Day, a Christian holiday. Over time, it became associated with the groundhog in North America.

Groundhog Day has become a popular and lighthearted cultural event in the United States and Canada, often celebrated with various festivities and events. While the groundhog's weather predictions are not scientifically accurate, the tradition continues to be a fun and whimsical part of the winter season for many people.

02 February - Treaty of Tartu

 

The Treaty of Tartu refers to two separate treaties, one signed in 1920 and another in 1921, between Soviet Russia and Estonia.

1. Treaty of Tartu (1920): This treaty was signed on February 2, 1920, and it marked the end of the Estonian War of Independence (1918–1920) between Estonia and Soviet Russia. The treaty recognized the independence of Estonia and its territorial integrity. It delineated the new border between Estonia and Soviet Russia. The city of Tartu was chosen as the location for the signing of the treaty. The Treaty of Tartu of 1920 played a crucial role in establishing diplomatic relations between Estonia and the Soviet state.

2. Treaty of Tartu (1921): Another Treaty of Tartu was signed on October 30, 1921, but this time it was between Soviet Russia and Finland. This treaty recognized Finland's independence from Soviet Russia and established the eastern border between the two countries.

Both treaties were part of the broader diplomatic efforts following World War I and the Russian Civil War, as various nations sought to establish or adjust their borders and diplomatic relations in the aftermath of these conflicts.

02 February - Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day

 

World Rheumatoid Arthritis Day is observed on February 2nd each year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its impact on individuals' lives. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage and deformities if left untreated.

The awareness day aims to educate the public about the symptoms, challenges, and impact of rheumatoid arthritis on those living with the condition. It also seeks to reduce stigma, promote early detection, and emphasize the importance of timely and appropriate medical care for managing the disease.

Various organizations, patient advocacy groups, and healthcare professionals use this day to conduct awareness campaigns, share information, and provide support for individuals affected by rheumatoid arthritis. The goal is to improve understanding, foster empathy, and encourage research and initiatives for better treatments and quality of life for those with rheumatoid arthritis.

 

02 February - New York Grand Central Terminal Opens in 1913

 

Grand Central Terminal, officially opened on 02 February 1913, in New York City. It replaced the original Grand Central Depot, which was opened in 1871. Grand Central Terminal is a major transportation hub, known for its grand architecture, including the iconic Beaux-Arts facade and a large celestial mural on its main concourse ceiling.

Designed by the architectural firms Reed and Stem and Warren and Wetmore, Grand Central Terminal serves as a central transportation hub for trains arriving and departing from New York City, particularly for commuters coming from the northern suburbs. It houses platforms for Metro-North Railroad and is a terminal for long-distance trains operated by Amtrak.

Grand Central Terminal is not only a transportation hub but also a historic and architectural landmark, drawing millions of visitors each year who come to admire its design, history, and the various shops and restaurants located within the terminal.