14 April - Vishu Festival

 

Vishu is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Kerala and by Malayali people around the world. It usually falls in the Malayalam month of Medam, typically in April as per the Gregorian calendar. Vishu marks the beginning of the traditional New Year in the Malayalam calendar.

The festival is characterized by various rituals and customs, with the most prominent being the Vishukkani, which means "the first sight of the year." On Vishu morning, people wake up early to witness the Vishukkani arrangement, which consists of an assortment of auspicious items such as rice, fruits, vegetables, flowers, gold ornaments, and coins, all displayed in front of deities in the prayer room. It is believed that seeing this auspicious sight first thing in the morning brings prosperity and good fortune for the rest of the year.

Another essential aspect of Vishu is the Vishukkaineetam, where elders in the family give money or gifts to younger members as a token of blessings and prosperity. Special traditional dishes are prepared for the occasion, such as Vishu Sadhya, a grand feast served on banana leaves, which typically includes various vegetarian dishes like sambar, aviyal, thoran, and payasam.

Fireworks, cultural programs, and other festivities are also part of the Vishu celebrations, bringing together families and communities to rejoice in the spirit of the New Year. Overall, Vishu is a time of joy, renewal, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.

Reference of the Stamp : The blossom of the Indian Laburnum, also known as the Golden Shower tree or Kanikonna (in Malayalam), holds significant cultural and symbolic importance in Kerala and other parts of South India.

During Vishu, the sight of the Golden Shower tree in full bloom adds to the festive ambiance and is considered an auspicious symbol of prosperity and abundance. The bright yellow flowers of the Golden Shower tree are believed to represent the arrival of spring and the promise of a fruitful year ahead.

In many households, it is customary to include branches of the Golden Shower tree in the Vishukkani arrangement, along with other auspicious items. The vibrant yellow blossoms, along with the other elements of the Vishukkani, are meant to invoke blessings for a prosperous and successful year.

Beyond Vishu, the Golden Shower tree holds cultural significance in various other festivals and celebrations in India. Its blooming period often coincides with the onset of spring, and its flowers are used in religious ceremonies, decorations, and cultural events.

Overall, the blossom of the Indian Laburnum plays a symbolic role in Vishu and is cherished for its beauty and association with auspiciousness and prosperity.

14 April - Tamil New Year

 

Tamil New Year, also known as "Puthandu" or "Varusha Pirappu," is the celebration of the traditional Tamil New Year observed by Tamil people in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry in India, and by the Tamil population in Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, and other parts of the world. It typically falls on April 14th each year.

The Tamil New Year marks the beginning of the Chithirai month in the Tamil calendar and is a time of joy, renewal, and family gatherings. People celebrate by wearing new clothes, preparing special dishes, visiting temples to offer prayers, and exchanging greetings and gifts with loved ones.

One of the key customs of Tamil New Year is the preparation of a special dish called "Maanga Pachadi," which symbolizes the various aspects of life - sweetness, sourness, bitterness, and tanginess. This dish serves as a reminder of the ups and downs that one may experience in the coming year and the importance of accepting them all with equanimity.

Traditional cultural events, including music, dance, and religious ceremonies, are also held to mark the occasion. Overall, Tamil New Year is a time for reflection, gratitude, and looking forward to new beginnings.

 

14 April - National Dolphin Day USA

 

National Dolphin Day in the USA is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these intelligent and charismatic marine mammals. Dolphins have long captured the human imagination with their playful behaviors and remarkable intelligence. This day serves not only as a reminder of their importance in our oceans but also as a call to action for their conservation and protection. It's a chance to raise awareness about the threats they face, such as habitat destruction, pollution, and bycatch, and to promote efforts to preserve their natural habitats. So, whether you're lucky enough to spot dolphins in the wild or simply appreciate them from afar, take a moment on National Dolphin Day to honor these incredible creatures and support their well-being.

14 April - Dhivehi Language Day (Maldives)

 

Dhivehi Language Day is celebrated on April 14th each year in the Maldives. This day commemorates the significance of the Dhivehi language, which is the official language of the Maldives and is spoken by the majority of the population.

Dhivehi Language Day serves to promote and preserve the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Maldives. It highlights the importance of the Dhivehi language as a symbol of national identity and unity, as well as a vehicle for communication, literature, and cultural expression.

On Dhivehi Language Day, various events and activities are organized across the Maldives to celebrate the language and its importance in Maldivian society. These may include educational workshops, cultural performances, poetry recitals, and competitions aimed at promoting Dhivehi language and literature.

The celebration of Dhivehi Language Day is an opportunity for Maldivians to reaffirm their commitment to preserving and promoting their native language and to recognize its role in shaping the country's history, culture, and identity.

 

14 April - N'Ko Alphabet Day (Mande speakers)

 

N'Ko Alphabet Day is celebrated on April 14th each year by Mande speakers. The N'Ko alphabet is a script devised by Solomana Kante in 1949 for the Mande languages of West Africa. It is used primarily by speakers of Mande languages such as Bambara, Mandinka, Dyula, and others.

N'Ko Alphabet Day commemorates the creation and adoption of the N'Ko script, which has played a significant role in promoting literacy and cultural identity among Mande-speaking communities. The adoption of the N'Ko script has helped preserve and revitalize indigenous languages and traditions, empowering speakers to communicate in their own language and express their cultural heritage.

On N'Ko Alphabet Day, various events and activities are organized to celebrate the significance of the N'Ko script, including educational workshops, cultural exhibitions, and community gatherings. The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of linguistic diversity and the role of indigenous scripts in preserving and promoting indigenous cultures and identities.

 

14 April - Day of Mologa (Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia)

 

Day of Mologa in Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia, celebrated on April 14th. This observance likely commemorates the history, culture, and significance of the town of Mologa within the region.

As Mologa is known for its historical importance and cultural heritage, it's fitting to have a dedicated day to honor and celebrate its legacy. The Day of Mologa may include various events and activities that showcase the town's history, traditions, and community spirit.

These celebrations could include cultural performances, exhibitions, historical reenactments, educational programs, and community gatherings aimed at promoting local pride and fostering connections among residents.

Observing the Day of Mologa on April 14th provides an opportunity for people in Yaroslavl Oblast to come together and appreciate the unique charm and significance of Mologa as a part of their regional identity.

 

14 April - World Quantum Day

 

World Quantum Day aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of quantum science and technology on a global scale. Events like this provide valuable opportunities for education, engagement, and collaboration in the field of quantum science.

Celebrating World Quantum Day on April 14 each year can help highlight the importance of quantum research and its potential to drive innovation across various industries. It can also foster discussions about the societal implications of quantum technologies and inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers to pursue careers in this exciting field.

World Quantum Day started on 14 April 2021 as an initiative by an international group of scientists. The initiative was joined by engineers, educators, science communicators, organizations and others to celebrate the first World Quantum day on 14 April 2022. April 14 was chosen because "4.14" represents the rounded first 3 digits of Planck’s constant: 4.14×10−15 eV·s.

The US Senate passed a resolution commemorating and supporting World Quantum Day on May 2, 2023.

 

14 April - Youth Day Angola

 

Youth Day in Angola is celebrated on April 14th each year. This day commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of young Angolans who contributed to the country's struggle for independence from colonial rule.

Angola gained independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975, after years of armed conflict and resistance. During the struggle for independence, many young Angolans played vital roles in the fight against colonial oppression, demonstrating courage, resilience, and determination.

Youth Day serves as a reminder of the importance of youth in shaping the future of Angola and honoring the contributions of young people to the nation's development and progress. It's also an occasion to recognize the challenges and opportunities facing youth in contemporary Angolan society and to reaffirm the commitment to empowering and supporting young people in realizing their aspirations and potential.

14 April - Pan American Day

 

Pan American Day, also known as Pan American Week, is observed on April 14th each year. This day commemorates the establishment of the International Union of American Republics, which later became the Organization of American States (OAS), on April 14, 1890.

Pan American Day serves as a reminder of the bonds of friendship and cooperation among the countries of the Americas. It provides an opportunity for nations in the Western Hemisphere to celebrate their shared values, cultures, and aspirations for peace, democracy, and prosperity.

Many countries in the Americas observe Pan American Day with various events, including official ceremonies, cultural exhibitions, educational activities, and diplomatic exchanges. The day highlights the importance of regional cooperation and solidarity in addressing common challenges and promoting mutual understanding and development.

In addition to Pan American Day, some countries also celebrate Pan American Week, during which they host a series of events and activities to promote the values of Pan-Americanism and strengthen ties among nations in the region.

14 April - Takayama Spring Festival begins

 

The Takayama Spring Festival, also known as the Takayama Matsuri, is a traditional Japanese festival held annually in Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan. It typically begins on April 14th and continues for several days, marking the arrival of spring and celebrating the local culture and heritage.

The Takayama Matsuri is renowned for its elaborate floats, known as yatai, which are adorned with intricate decorations and displayed during the festival procession. These ornate floats are accompanied by traditional music, dance performances, and ceremonies, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere in the streets of Takayama.

During the festival, locals and visitors alike gather to admire the beautifully crafted floats, participate in cultural activities, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Takayama Matsuri is one of Japan's most famous and cherished festivals, attracting tourists from around the world who come to experience the rich traditions and customs of Takayama.

In addition to the Spring Festival, Takayama also hosts a Autumn Festival in October, which is similarly renowned for its stunning floats and lively celebrations. Both festivals are highlights of the cultural calendar in Takayama and offer a unique glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.

 

14 April - The first Volvo is manufactured in 1927

 

On April 14, 1927, the first Volvo car rolled off the production line in Gothenburg, Sweden. This marked a significant milestone in the history of the Swedish automotive industry and the beginning of Volvo Cars as a manufacturer of high-quality automobiles.

The Volvo car produced on this day was the Volvo ÖV4, also known as the "Jakob." It was a sturdy and reliable vehicle designed to withstand the harsh Swedish climate and rugged terrain. The ÖV4 featured a distinctive radiator grille with diagonal stripes, which would become a hallmark of Volvo cars in the years to come.

Since its inception, Volvo Cars has been known for its commitment to safety, durability, and innovation. Over the decades, Volvo has introduced numerous groundbreaking safety features, including the three-point seatbelt, which was invented by Volvo engineer Nils Bohlin in 1959 and has since become a standard safety device in vehicles worldwide.

The production of the first Volvo car in 1927 laid the foundation for Volvo's reputation as a leading manufacturer of safe and reliable automobiles. Today, Volvo Cars continues to be recognized for its commitment to safety and sustainability, with a focus on producing premium vehicles that prioritize the well-being of drivers, passengers, and the environment.

 

14 April - National Fire Service Day/week

 

India celebrate National Fire Service Day on April 14th each year. This day commemorates the sacrifices made by firefighters during the explosion and fire at the Victoria Dock in Bombay (now Mumbai) on April 14, 1944.

National Fire Service Day in India is an occasion to honor the bravery, dedication, and professionalism of firefighters who risk their lives to save others and protect property from fires and other emergencies. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness in communities across the country.

On National Fire Service Day, various events and activities may be organized by fire departments, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions to raise awareness about fire safety, recognize the contributions of firefighters, and promote best practices for fire prevention and emergency response.

 

14 April - The Titanic strikes an iceberg and starts to sink 1912

 

April 14th, 1912 marks one of the most tragic maritime disasters in history—the sinking of the RMS Titanic. On that fateful night, the Titanic, a luxurious British passenger liner, struck an iceberg in the North Atlantic Ocean during its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York City.

The collision occurred shortly before midnight on April 14th, causing extensive damage to the ship's hull. As a result, the Titanic began to take on water rapidly. Despite efforts to save the vessel, including the activation of watertight compartments, the scale of the damage proved catastrophic.

In the early hours of April 15th, the Titanic sank beneath the frigid waters, claiming the lives of more than 1,500 passengers and crew. The disaster shocked the world and led to significant changes in maritime safety regulations, including the implementation of stricter standards for lifeboat capacity and emergency procedures.

The sinking of the Titanic remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of human endeavors and the importance of prioritizing safety in all aspects of life, particularly in the realm of transportation and exploration.

 

14 April - World Chagas Disease Day

 

World Chagas Disease Day is observed on April 14th each year. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Chagas disease primarily affects people in Latin America, but it is increasingly becoming a global health concern due to migration and travel.

The observance of World Chagas Disease Day aims to highlight the importance of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease. It provides an opportunity to educate the public, policymakers, and healthcare professionals about the risks, symptoms, and consequences of Chagas disease, as well as the need for improved access to healthcare services for affected populations.

Through advocacy, outreach activities, and research initiatives, World Chagas Disease Day seeks to promote greater attention and action towards addressing the challenges associated with Chagas disease and ultimately working towards its elimination as a public health threat.

 

14 April - M. Visvesvaraya death anniversary

 

Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, often referred to as Sir M. Visvesvaraya, was an eminent Indian engineer, scholar, and statesman. He passed away on 14 April 1962,

Visvesvaraya was born on 15 September 1861, in Muddenahalli, a village in present-day Karnataka, India. He made significant contributions to various fields, particularly in engineering, education, and public administration.

Visvesvaraya played a key role in the development of India's infrastructure during the British colonial era and in the early years of independent India. He served as the Chief Engineer of the Mysore State and was instrumental in the construction of dams, bridges, and irrigation systems, including the Krishna Raja Sagara dam in Mysore.

Visvesvaraya's contributions to engineering and nation-building earned him numerous honors and accolades, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1955. His birthday, 15 September is celebrated as Engineer's Day in in India, Sri Lanka and Tanzania in his memory, in recognition of his remarkable achievements and contributions to the field of engineering.

Though he did not pass away on 12 April , his legacy continues to inspire generations of engineers and policymakers in India and beyond.

14 April - Henry I of Castile was born in 1204

 

Henry I of Castile, also known as Henry I of Castile and León, was born on 14 April 1204. He was the son of Alfonso VIII of Castile and Eleanor of England. Henry succeeded his father as King of Castile in 1214 at the age of ten, under the regency of his mother, Queen Eleanor.

Henry's reign was marked by internal conflicts and struggles for power within the kingdom. He faced opposition from nobles and rival claimants to the throne, leading to periods of instability. However, Henry managed to assert his authority and consolidate power during his reign.

Henry I of Castile died on 06 June 1217, at the young age of thirteen. His younger sister Berengaria succeeded him briefly as Queen of Castile until her marriage to Alfonso IX of León, which led to the union of the crowns of Castile and León. Henry's premature death marked the end of his brief but eventful reign as King of Castile.

14 April - Christiaan Huygens birth anniversary

 

Christiaan Huygens was a Dutch mathematician, physicist, and astronomer, born on 14 April 1629, in The Hague, Netherlands. He made significant contributions to various fields of science during the 17th century.

Huygens is perhaps best known for his work in astronomy. He made groundbreaking discoveries using telescopes, including the first observation of Saturn's rings in 1655 and the discovery of its moon Titan in 1655. Huygens also proposed a wave theory of light, which challenged the prevailing view of light as composed of particles. His work laid the foundation for modern optics and wave theory.

In mathematics, Huygens made significant contributions to the fields of probability theory and calculus. He developed the concept of mathematical expectation and made advancements in the understanding of the cycloid curve.

Huygens was also an inventor, credited with inventing the pendulum clock in 1656, which greatly improved timekeeping accuracy. His work in mechanics and dynamics contributed to the development of modern physics.

Christiaan Huygens is remembered as one of the most influential scientists of his time, whose work had a lasting impact on multiple fields of science and technology. He passed away on 08 July 1695, in The Hague, Netherlands.

14 April - Nitin Bose death anniversary

 

Nitin Bose was a pioneering Indian filmmaker and cinematographer known for his significant contributions to the Indian film industry. He was born on April 26, 1897, in Calcutta, British India (now Kolkata, India), and he passed away on April 14, 1986.

Nitin Bose played a crucial role in shaping Indian cinema during its early years. He began his career as a cinematographer and worked on several notable films, demonstrating his innovative use of lighting and camera techniques. Bose is credited with introducing the technique of playback singing in Indian cinema, which revolutionized the way songs were recorded and filmed.

As a filmmaker, Nitin Bose directed several successful films in Hindi, Bengali, and other languages. Some of his notable works include "Dharam" (1935), "Achut Kanya" (1936), and "Ganga Jamuna" (1961). He was known for his ability to blend artistic expression with commercial appeal, creating films that resonated with audiences across India.

Nitin Bose's contributions to Indian cinema have earned him a revered place in its history. He is remembered as a visionary filmmaker and cinematographer who played a key role in shaping the industry during its formative years.

14 April - Abraham Lincoln is shot by John Wilkes Booth

 

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States, serving from March 1861 until his assassination in April 1865. He was born on 12 February 1809, in a log cabin in Hardin County, Kentucky (now part of LaRue County). Lincoln grew up in a poor family and largely self-educated himself, becoming a lawyer and entering politics.

As president, Lincoln faced the immense challenge of leading the country through the American Civil War, which erupted in 1861 over issues including slavery, states' rights, and the preservation of the Union. He is best remembered for his leadership during this tumultuous period and for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be set free.

Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, delivered in 1863, is one of the most famous speeches in American history, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and democracy. He was re-elected in 1864 but tragically did not live to see the end of the Civil War. Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a Confederate sympathizer, on 14 April 1865, while attending a play at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. He passed away the following day, 15 April 1865.

Lincoln's leadership during a time of national crisis, his commitment to preserving the Union and abolishing slavery, and his enduring legacy as a symbol of American values have earned him a revered place in history.

14 April - The first commercial motion picture house was opened in New York

 

On 14 April 1894, The first commercial motion picture house  was opened in New York City. It has 10 peep-show Kinetoscopes through which the films can be seen.

The Kinetoscope was patented by Thomas Edison. It had been developed primarily by one of his team members, William Kennedy Dickson who was the star and producer of the first motion picture shown to a public audience.

14 April - Abraham Ortelius birth anniversary

 

 Abraham Ortelius, born on 14 April 1527, was a Brabantian cartographer and geographer, conventionally recognized as the creator of the first modern atlas, the Theatrum Orbis Terrarum (Theatre of the World). Ortelius was often considered one of the founders of the Netherlandish school of cartography and one of the most notable figures of the school in its golden age (approximately 1570s–1670s). The publication of his atlas in 1570 was often considered as the official beginning of the Golden Age of Netherlandish cartography. He was also believed to be the first person to imagine that the continents were joined together before drifting to their present positions 

 

 

14 April - Hindu Astrology - Zodiac sign and Elements stamps were issued in 2010

 

 

A Miniature sheet consisting 12nos.of Commemorative postage stamps issued on (14 April 2010) Hindu Astrology - Zodiac sign and Elements : The design of the stamps are rooted in Indian folk and depicts the 12 Zodiac sign - against four base colours which reflects the elements of Earth, Air , Fire and water. The Miniature sheet is based on the format of a horoscope, a different version of which is also reflected on the First day cover each of the four reflected a different elements.