16 February - Meghnad Saha death anniversary

 

Meghnad Saha (1893–1956) was an Indian astrophysicist and mathematician known for his significant contributions to the field of astrophysics. Born on October 6, 1893, in Shaoratoli, Bengal Presidency (now in Bangladesh), Saha made groundbreaking contributions in the early 20th century.

Here are some key points about Meghnad Saha:

1. Ionization Equation: Saha is best known for the Saha Ionization Equation, formulated in 1920. This equation describes the ionization state of a gas in thermal equilibrium, particularly in the context of stellar atmospheres. It has been crucial in understanding the spectra of stars and interpreting their composition.

2. Thermal Ionization: Saha's work was fundamental in explaining how the temperature and pressure conditions in stellar atmospheres affect the ionization states of chemical elements. This helped astronomers interpret the spectral lines observed in stars.

3. Indian Science and Education: Saha was also actively involved in promoting scientific education and research in India. He played a key role in the establishment of the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS) in 1935.

4. Political Engagement: Apart from his scientific contributions, Saha was politically active and served as a Member of the Planning Commission of India from 1947 to 1951. He was involved in advocating for scientific research and education in independent India.

5. Honors and Recognition: Meghnad Saha received numerous honors for his contributions to science. He was knighted in 1931, and he became the president of the Indian Science Congress in 1934. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1954.

6. Death: Meghnad Saha passed away on February 16, 1956, in New Delhi, India.

Meghnad Saha's work laid the foundation for much of the subsequent research in astrophysics, and his legacy continues to be influential in the field. His contributions to both science and the development of scientific institutions in India are widely acknowledged.

 

16 February - Ratha Saptami

 

Today is Ratha Saptami, Hindus celebrate Ratha Saptami, also known as Rathasapthami, on the seventh day (Saptami), which falls during the month of Maagha's brilliant half.
 

It is metaphorically depicted by the Sun God Surya turning his Ratha (Chariot), which is pulled by seven horses (representing the seven colours), north-eastward towards the northern hemisphere.
It also commemorates Surya's birth, which is why it is known as Surya Jayanti (the Sun God's birthday).

Ratha Saptami marks the beginning of the harvesting season and the transition from winter to spring.

Most Indian farmers view it as a fortunate start to the new year.
 

All Hindus in India celebrate the event both at home and in the numerous Surya temples that dot the country.

16 February - Tatya Tope born in 1814

 

Tantia Tope also spelled Tatya Tope (16 February 1814 — 18 April 1859) was a general in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and one of its notable leaders. Despite lacking formal military training, Tantia Tope is widely considered as one of the best and most effective courageous generals in the Indian struggle for independence.

Born as Ramachandra Panduranga Yewalkar to a Marathi Deshastha Brahmin family, in Yeola, (near Nasik). Tantia took on the title Tope, meaning commanding officer. His first name Tantia means General. A personal adherent of Nana Saheb of Bithoor, he progressed with the Gwalior contingent after the British reoccupied Kanpur (then known as Cawnpore) and forced General Windham to retreat from the city. Later on, Tantia Tope came to the relief of Rani Lakshmibai of Jhansi and with her seized the city of Gwalior. However, he was defeated by General Napier's British Indian troops at Ranod and after a further defeat at Sikar, he abandoned the campaign.

According to an official statement, Tantia Tope's father was Panduranga Yewalkar and his mother was Rukhma Bai.Tope was a Maraṭha Vashista Brahman by birth.In a government letter, he was said to be the minister of Baroda, while he was held identical to Nana Saheb in another communication.A witness at his trial described Tantia Tope as "a man of middling stature, with a wheat complexion and always wearing a white chukri-dar turban".

Tope was executed by the British Government at Sipri (now Shivpuri) on 18 April 1859.

16 February - 9-1-1 emergency telephone system goes into service in 1968

 

The 9-1-1 emergency telephone system was first implemented in the United States. The historic event occurred on February 16, 1968, in Haleyville, Alabama. This marked the inauguration of the first 9-1-1 emergency call in the country.

The idea behind 9-1-1 was to establish a standardized, easy-to-remember number that people could dial in emergencies to quickly connect with police, fire, or medical assistance. The success of the 9-1-1 system in Haleyville led to its widespread adoption across the United States, becoming the national emergency number.

Today, the 9-1-1 emergency telephone system is a crucial part of public safety infrastructure, providing a quick and effective means for individuals to seek help in times of crisis.

 

16 February - The Day of the Shining Star in North Korea

 

The Day of the Shining Star is an important national holiday in North Korea, commemorating the birthday of Kim Jong Il, the former leader of North Korea. Kim Jong Il was born on February 16, 1942. The holiday is observed on February 16th each year, marking his birth anniversary.

On this day, various events and celebrations take place throughout North Korea to honor Kim Jong Il. These activities include public gatherings, performances, exhibitions, and other festive events. The Day of the Shining Star is considered a significant occasion in North Korea, where the leadership and achievements of Kim Jong Il are highlighted and praised. It is a day of reverence and festivities dedicated to the memory of the late leader.