16 August - Krishan Kant was elected as the Vice President of India in 1997

On 16 August 1997, Krishan Kant, who was serving as the Governor of Andhra Pradesh, was elected as the Vice President of India. His election marked a significant moment in Indian politics, as he transitioned from his gubernatorial role to become the 10th Vice President of the country.

Krishan Kant's career was characterized by his commitment to democracy and public service. After being elected as Vice President, he also became the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India's Parliament. He held the Vice Presidency until his passing on 27 July 2002.

His election on August 16, 1997, is remembered as a key moment in his political journey, symbolizing the trust and respect he commanded across political circles in India.

16 August - Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan death anniversary

 

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a legendary Pakistani musician, best known for his powerful and soulful performances in Qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music. Born on 13 October 1948, in Faisalabad, Pakistan, he hailed from a family of musicians and was trained in classical music by his father, Ustad Fateh Ali Khan. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's voice had an extraordinary range and intensity, and he became renowned for his ability to perform for hours, enthralling audiences with his spiritual and emotional renditions.

He is credited with popularizing Qawwali on a global scale, bridging the gap between Eastern and Western music. His collaborations with Western artists like Peter Gabriel and Eddie Vedder further broadened his reach and influence. Nusrat's music transcended language and cultural barriers, earning him a massive following worldwide.

He passed away on 16 August 1997, but his legacy continues to inspire and resonate with music lovers across the globe.

16 August - Varalakshmi Vratham festival is celebrated

 

Varalakshmi Vratham is a Hindu religious observance and festival celebrated predominantly by married women in South India, especially in the states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Telangana. It falls on the Friday preceding the full moon day in the month of Shravana (usually in July or August),In 2024 it is celbrated on 16 August , which is considered an auspicious time for worshiping Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and well-being.

During Varalakshmi Vratham, women perform a special puja (ritual worship) to seek the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi for the well-being of their families, especially their husbands. The primary ritual involves creating a symbolic representation of Goddess Lakshmi using rice flour and placing various traditional offerings like fruits, flowers, betel leaves, coconut, and other auspicious items on a decorated tray or in front of an idol or picture of the goddess.

The main components of the puja include lighting oil lamps, reciting prayers and hymns dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, offering various sweets and dishes as prasad (blessed food), and tying a sacred thread around the right wrist as a sign of the vow taken during the festival. Many women also visit temples on this day to offer their prayers and seek the goddess's blessings.

Varalakshmi Vratham is not only a religious ritual but also an occasion for women to come together, celebrate, and strengthen their bonds. It is a time when they dress in traditional attire, exchange gifts, and share a festive meal with family and friends.

It's important to note that while I can provide general information about Varalakshmi Vratham, customs and practices might vary based on regional traditions and individual beliefs. For accurate and detailed information, it's recommended to consult local sources or religious authorities.

 

16 August - Don Bosco Salesians birth anniversary

 

The Salesians of Don Bosco, commonly referred to as the Salesians, are a religious order within the Roman Catholic Church founded by Saint John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco. This order is renowned for its dedication to the education and welfare of young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Salesians follow the teachings and principles set forth by Don Bosco, and their mission is centered around providing holistic education, fostering personal development, and promoting a sense of community and purpose among young individuals.

Don Bosco, the visionary behind the Salesians, was born on August 16, 1815, in Becchi, a village in Piedmont, Italy. He was deeply committed to the welfare of young people and believed that education, combined with spiritual guidance and care, was essential to their growth and empowerment.

After years of working with and advocating for young people, Don Bosco founded the Salesians on December 18, 1859. He was driven by a desire to provide a safe and nurturing environment where young individuals could receive both academic education and character formation. Don Bosco's approach emphasized a preventive system that focused on cultivating positive values, skills, and self-confidence in the youth, thus preventing them from falling into destructive behaviors.

The Salesians established schools, technical training centers, orphanages, and other educational institutions around the world, serving diverse communities and cultures. Their work extended beyond classroom education to include vocational training, sports, arts, and various extracurricular activities aimed at developing well-rounded individuals.

Don Bosco's teachings and legacy continued to shape the Salesians' mission even after his death. He passed away on January 31, 1888, in Turin, Italy. The Salesians have since expanded their reach to numerous countries, impacting the lives of millions of young people through their educational, social, and spiritual initiatives.

The Salesians of Don Bosco remain dedicated to their founder's vision of empowering and uplifting the youth. Their commitment to education, mentorship, and community-building continues to make a profound and positive impact on the lives of countless individuals worldwide.

16 August - National Roller Coaster Day celebrated in USA

 

National Roller Coaster Day is celebrated on August 16th each year. This day honors the exhilarating and gravity-defying amusement park rides that have become a symbol of excitement and fun for people of all ages.

Roller coasters have a rich history dating back to the 17th century, with their modern form evolving over the years to include loops, twists, turns, and impressive speeds. These thrill rides provide an adrenaline rush and a sense of adventure that has captivated the imaginations of amusement park enthusiasts around the world.

On National Roller Coaster Day, amusement parks often offer special promotions, events, and celebrations centered around their roller coasters. It's a day for roller coaster enthusiasts to come together, share their love for these exciting rides, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Whether you're a daredevil seeking the next heart-pounding drop or someone who appreciates the engineering marvels that roller coasters represent, National Roller Coaster Day is a time to celebrate the joy, excitement, and nostalgia that these iconic rides bring to our lives.

16 August - Elvis Presley death anniversary

 

Elvis Presley, often referred to as the "King of Rock and Roll," was a celebrated American singer, actor, and cultural icon. He was born on 08 January 1935, in Tupelo, Mississippi, USA. Elvis gained immense popularity and fame for his unique blend of rock, pop, and rhythm and blues music, which revolutionized the music industry and left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Presley's musical career took off in the mid-1950s, with hit songs like "Heartbreak Hotel," "Hound Dog," and "Jailhouse Rock." His energetic performances, charismatic stage presence, and distinctive voice captured the hearts of millions worldwide, making him one of the most influential and successful artists of his time.

In addition to his music career, Elvis Presley also ventured into acting, starring in a number of films, including "Love Me Tender," "Jailhouse Rock," and "Viva Las Vegas." His contributions to both music and film have left an enduring legacy, and he remains an icon of the 20th century.

Tragically, Elvis Presley passed away on 16 August 1977, at the age of 42, in Memphis, Tennessee. His untimely death marked the end of an era and led to an outpouring of grief from fans around the world. Despite his premature departure, Elvis Presley's influence continues to be felt in music, film, and popular culture, and his memory lives on through his timeless songs and the impact he had on shaping the entertainment industry.

 

16 August - Puducherry Liberation Day

 

Puducherry Liberation Day, also known as Puducherry Liberation and Independence Day, is celebrated on August 16th every year. It commemorates the liberation of the Union Territory of Puducherry and its surrounding regions from French colonial rule.

Before India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947, Puducherry and its adjoining areas were under French colonial administration. The struggle for freedom from foreign control extended to these territories as well. On August 16, 1962, after a period of negotiations and diplomatic efforts, Puducherry was officially integrated into the Republic of India, marking the end of French colonial influence in the region.

Puducherry Liberation Day is observed as a state holiday in the Union Territory of Puducherry. The day is marked by various events, including flag hoisting ceremonies, cultural programs, parades, and speeches by local leaders. It is an opportunity for the people of Puducherry to celebrate their identity, history, and the attainment of political and cultural independence.

The liberation of Puducherry holds significance in the broader context of India's struggle for independence and decolonization efforts. It reflects the spirit of unity and determination that prevailed among the people of Puducherry to free themselves from foreign rule and contribute to the sovereignty of India.

16 August - Rani Avantibai Lodhi birth anniversary

 

 

Rani Avantibai Lodhi (born 16 August 1831) was an Indian Rajput queen-ruler and freedom fighter. She was the queen of the Ramgarh (present-day Dindori) in Madhya Pradesh. An opponent of the British East India Company during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, information concerning her is sparse and mostly comes from folklore. In 21st century, she has been used as an icon in Lodhi Rajput politics, she comes from Lodhi Rajput community.

16 August - John Stith Pemberton death anniversary

 

John Stith Pemberton was an American pharmacist and inventor who is best known for creating the formula for Coca-Cola, one of the world's most iconic and popular soft drinks. He was born on January 8, 1831, in Knoxville, Georgia, USA.

Pemberton began his career as a pharmacist and medical doctor, serving in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. After the war, he started experimenting with various concoctions, aiming to create a beverage that would serve as a refreshing and invigorating tonic. In 1886, he formulated a carbonated beverage that combined coca leaf extract and kola nut extract, among other ingredients. He initially marketed this concoction as a medicinal elixir, claiming it had health benefits.

Pemberton's creation, originally called "Pemberton's French Wine Coca," quickly gained popularity for its unique taste and perceived effects. However, due to restrictions on alcohol sales in his region, Pemberton replaced the wine component with sugar syrup, leading to the birth of the beverage we now know as Coca-Cola.

Unfortunately, Pemberton's health declined, and he sold the rights to Coca-Cola to a businessman named Asa Griggs Candler in 1888. Pemberton passed away on August 16, 1888, at the age of 57.

While Pemberton's original intention was to create a medicinal tonic, his invention evolved into one of the world's most recognized and beloved soft drinks. Coca-Cola continues to be enjoyed by millions of people worldwide, and Pemberton's legacy lives on through the enduring success of his creation.

 

16 August - Idi Amin Dada Oumee death anniversary

 

Idi Amin Dada Oumee, commonly known as Idi Amin, was a Ugandan military officer and dictator who ruled the country with an iron fist from 1971 to 1979. Born on May 17, 1925, in Koboko, British Uganda (now in Uganda), Amin's rule was marked by brutality, human rights abuses, and economic mismanagement.

Amin rose through the ranks of the Ugandan military and seized power in a coup against President Milton Obote in 1971. His regime was characterized by widespread human rights violations, including political repression, extrajudicial killings, and the expulsion of Asian Ugandans, which severely impacted the country's economy.

During his time in power, Amin often attracted international attention for his erratic behavior and controversial statements. He declared himself the "Conqueror of the British Empire" and adopted grandiose titles, such as "His Excellency, President for Life, Field Marshal Al Hadji Doctor Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Lord of All the Beasts of the Earth and Fishes of the Seas and Conqueror of the British Empire in Africa in General and Uganda in Particular."

Amin's brutal rule came to an end in 1979 when he was ousted from power by a coalition of Ugandan exiles and Tanzanian forces. He went into exile and lived in various countries before eventually settling in Saudi Arabia. Idi Amin died on August 16, 2003, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Idi Amin's rule left a dark legacy in Uganda, with estimates of hundreds of thousands of deaths attributed to his regime. His oppressive regime and disregard for human rights serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and authoritarianism.

16 August - T.E. Lawrence know as Lawrence of Arabia was born in 1888

 

T.E. Lawrence, also known as Lawrence of Arabia, was a British archaeologist, military officer, and diplomat who became famous for his role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. His birth and death dates are as follows:

Birth: August 16, 1888 

Death: May 19, 1935

T.E. Lawrence played a significant role in shaping the history of the Middle East through his efforts to unite Arab tribes and lead them in guerrilla warfare against the Ottoman forces. His experiences during the Arab Revolt were later recounted in his book "Seven Pillars of Wisdom," which has become a classic work of war literature.

Lawrence's role in the Arab Revolt and his efforts to advance Arab interests in the post-war negotiations had a lasting impact on the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East. Despite his relatively short life, his legacy and contributions are widely recognized and continue to be studied and discussed to this day.

16 August - Sare Jahan se Accha the poem was published in the weekly journal Ietterhead in 1904

 

"Sare Jahan se Accha", "Tarānah-e-Hindi"  "Anthem of the People of Hindustan", is an Urdu language patriotic song for children written by poet Muhammad Iqbal in the ghazal style of Urdu poetry. The poem was published in the weekly journal Ittehad on 16 August 1904. Publicly recited by Iqbal the following year at Government College, Lahore, British India (now in Pakistan) it quickly became an anthem of opposition to the British Raj. The song, an ode to Hindustan—the land comprising present-day Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, was later published in 1924 in the Urdu book Bang-i-Dara.

The song has remained popular, but only in India. An abridged version is sung and played frequently as a patriotic song and as a marching song of the Indian Armed Forces.

Iqbal was a lecturer at the Government College, Lahore at that time, and was invited by a student Lala Har Dayal to preside over a function. Instead of delivering a speech, Iqbal sang "Saare Jahan Se Achcha". The song, in addition to embodying yearning and attachment to the land of Hindustan, expressed "cultural memory" and had an elegiac quality. In 1905, the 27-year-old Iqbal viewed the future society of the subcontinent as both a pluralistic and composite Hindu-Muslim culture. Later that year he left for Europe for a three-year sojourn that was to transform him into an Islamic philosopher and a visionary of a future Islamic society.

16 August - Subhadra Kumari Chauhan

 

Subhadra Kumari Chauhan was a prominent Indian poet and freedom fighter known for her significant contributions to Hindi literature. Born on August 16, 1904, in Nihalpur village, Allahabad, British India (now in Uttar Pradesh, India), Chauhan was a versatile writer who expressed her nationalist fervor through her powerful poems and writings during the Indian independence movement.

Chauhan's literary works mainly revolved around themes of patriotism, social issues, and women's empowerment. She played a vital role in inspiring and mobilizing the masses through her emotionally charged and thought-provoking verses. Her famous poem "Jhansi ki Rani" (The Queen of Jhansi) celebrated the valor and courage of the legendary Indian queen Rani Lakshmibai and became a symbol of women's bravery and empowerment.

Throughout her life, Subhadra Kumari Chauhan actively participated in the struggle for India's freedom from British colonial rule. Her literary prowess and dedication to the cause made her an influential figure in both the literary and political spheres. Tragically, Chauhan's life was cut short when she passed away on February 15, 1948, at the age of 43.

Subhadra Kumari Chauhan's legacy lives on through her inspiring poetry and her unwavering commitment to India's fight for independence. Her works continue to be celebrated and cherished, leaving an indelible mark on Hindi literature and the nation's history.