20 September - German World Children’s Day

German World Children’s Day, known as Weltkindertag in Germany, is celebrated annually on 20 September . This day is dedicated to raising awareness about children's rights and welfare, with a focus on ensuring a better future for them. It is observed across the country with events, activities, and campaigns aimed at promoting the well-being and interests of children.

The origins of Children's Day in Germany can be traced back to the mid-20th century. However, after the division of Germany, the celebration took different forms in East and West Germany:

• In East Germany (GDR), Children’s Day was celebrated on June 1st and was known as Internationaler Kindertag (International Children's Day). It was highly emphasized in schools and public spaces with a focus on socialist values.
• In West Germany, Children’s Day was celebrated on 20th September as Weltkindertag.

After reunification in 1990, September 20th became the official date for celebrating World Children's Day throughout the entire country.

The day focuses on promoting children's rights as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, which includes the right to education, protection from violence, and the right to play. Various organizations, schools, and communities organize fun events, performances, and campaigns to highlight children's needs and call for policies that improve their lives.

Weltkindertag continues to be a day for advocacy, celebration, and action, with many people coming together to emphasize the importance of a world where children's rights are fully realized.

20 September - Akkineni Nageswara Rao birth anniversary

 

Akkineni Nageswara Rao (ANR) was a legendary Indian actor, producer, and one of the most iconic figures in Telugu cinema. Born on 20 September 1923, in Ramapuram, Andhra Pradesh, he is celebrated for his immense contributions to the Indian film industry, particularly in Telugu films. ANR's career spanned over seven decades, during which he appeared in more than 250 films across various genres, including romance, drama, and social causes.

He was known for his exceptional acting skills, versatility, and ability to embody a wide range of characters, from mythological heroes to modern-day protagonists. ANR played a crucial role in shaping the Telugu film industry, alongside his contemporary, Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao (NTR).

Some of his most famous films include:

• Devadasu (1953) – ANR's portrayal of the tragic hero Devadasu is considered one of his most iconic roles.
• Prem Nagar (1971) – A romantic drama where ANR showcased his versatility.
• Manam (2014) – His last film, where he appeared alongside his son Nagarjuna and grandson Naga Chaitanya.

ANR was a recipient of numerous awards and honors, including the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for lifetime contribution to Indian cinema. He passed away on 22 January 2014, but his legacy continues through his films and the Akkineni family, which remains influential in the Telugu film industry.

20 September - National Cinema Day

 

National Cinema Day in India is celebrated to recognize and promote the love for cinema across the country. It serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of the film industry, its cultural influence, and its impact on society. While National Cinema Day was introduced globally, the celebration in India took off in 2022, driven by the Multiplex Association of India (MAI).

National Cinema Day 2024 is celebrated on 20 September 2024. Organized by the Multiplex Association of India (MAI), this event offers moviegoers the chance to watch films at a discounted price of ₹99 per ticket across 4,000+ screens, including major chains like PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis. The discount applies to regular screenings, while premium formats like IMAX and 4DX are excluded. This day aims to bring audiences back to theaters and promote the love for cinema​

20 September - Independence Day of South Ossetia

 

The Independence Day of South Ossetia is celebrated on 20th September each year. This marks the date in 1990 when the region declared its independence from Georgia, following growing tensions and nationalist movements in the final years of the Soviet Union. However, South Ossetia's independence remains largely unrecognized internationally, with most of the world considering it part of Georgia.

Historical Background:

• South Ossetia, located in the Caucasus, has been a contentious region for many years, with a significant Ossetian population seeking separation from Georgia, while Georgia views it as an integral part of its territory.
• On 20 September 1990, the South Ossetian authorities declared the establishment of the South Ossetian Soviet Democratic Republic and later, full independence from Georgia, leading to heightened tensions and violent conflicts.
• The situation escalated into the 1991–1992 South Ossetia War, which resulted in significant devastation and a de facto separation of South Ossetia from Georgia, though its independence was not internationally recognized.

Conflict and Recognition:

• In 2008, following the brief Russo-Georgian War, Russia officially recognized South Ossetia as an independent country. This recognition was followed by only a handful of countries, including Nicaragua, Venezuela, Syria, and a few Pacific island nations.
• Most of the international community, including the United Nations, the European Union, and NATO, still regard South Ossetia as part of Georgia, and the region is not recognized as an independent state by the majority of nations.

Current Situation:

• South Ossetia operates as a de facto independent state with its own government and Russian military presence, though it remains economically and politically dependent on Russia.
• Georgia continues to assert its claim over South Ossetia, considering it as part of its sovereign territory, and tensions between the two sides remain unresolved.

20 September - National Youth Day (Thailand)

 

National Youth Day in Thailand is celebrated annually on 20th September . This day honors the importance of the country's youth, recognizing their role in shaping Thailand's future. The day encourages young people to be responsible citizens, develop leadership skills, and contribute positively to society.

Historical Background:

The celebration of National Youth Day in Thailand was established to commemorate the birthdays of two former kings who were considered significant youth figures:

• King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), born on 20 September 1853.
• King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), born on 20 September 1925.

Both monarchs made significant contributions to Thailand’s progress, and their birthdays on the same date make the occasion doubly symbolic. King Chulalongkorn is known for modernizing the country, while King Ananda Mahidol is remembered for his short but impactful reign.

Objectives and Activities:

• Youth Development: The day highlights the importance of providing opportunities for the youth to develop their skills and talents. It emphasizes education, innovation, and leadership development.
• Promoting Social Responsibility: Schools, universities, and youth organizations hold special events, seminars, and activities that focus on encouraging young people to contribute to social causes, environmental conservation, and community service.
• Celebrations: There are often youth competitions, sports events, exhibitions, and cultural performances held across the country to honor the potential and accomplishments of young people.

National Youth Day is a reminder of the country's belief in its youth as the driving force for Thailand’s future, promoting values of education, civic duty, and national pride.

20 September - Narayana Guru death anniversary

 

Narayana Guru, born on August 28, 1855, and passing away on September 20, 1928, was a revered Indian social reformer, philosopher, and spiritual leader. He hailed from the state of Kerala, which was marked by rigid caste hierarchies and social inequalities during his time.

Narayana Guru dedicated his life to advocating for social justice, equality, and spiritual enlightenment. He strongly opposed the caste system and believed in the unity of humanity regardless of caste, creed, or religion. He promoted the idea of "One Caste, One Religion, One God for Man," emphasizing the universality of spiritual values and the need to eradicate discrimination.

His teachings and actions led to the formation of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam, an organization that aimed to uplift the marginalized and backward communities in Kerala. He also emphasized education as a means of empowerment and established schools and temples that were open to people of all castes.

Narayana Guru's philosophy and efforts for social reform left a profound impact on Kerala and the broader Indian society. His teachings continue to inspire social and religious harmony and remain relevant in the quest for a more equitable and just society.

20 September - George Raymond Richard Martin birth anniversary

 

George Raymond Richard Martin, often referred to as George R.R. Martin, is a renowned American author best known for his epic fantasy series, "A Song of Ice and Fire." He was born on September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey, USA.

George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, which includes novels like "A Game of Thrones," "A Clash of Kings," "A Storm of Swords," "A Feast for Crows," and "A Dance with Dragons," has gained immense popularity and acclaim for its intricate world-building, complex characters, and intricate political and social dynamics. The series was adapted into the highly successful HBO television series "Game of Thrones."

Before achieving fame with "A Song of Ice and Fire," Martin had a prolific career as a science fiction and fantasy writer. He worked in television, including writing for the TV series "The Twilight Zone" and "The Outer Limits."

George R.R. Martin's writing is known for its realism and willingness to subvert traditional fantasy tropes, which has resonated with a broad readership. However, the lengthy gaps between the releases of his novels in the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series have led to anticipation and speculation among his fans regarding the forthcoming books, notably "The Winds of Winter" and "A Dream of Spring," which will conclude the series.

George R.R. Martin's contributions to the world of fantasy literature have made him a prominent and influential figure in the genre, and his work continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.