17 October - Mother Teresa awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979

 

Mother Teresa, the renowned Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun and humanitarian, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 17, 1979. She received the Nobel Peace Prize for her selfless and dedicated work in alleviating the suffering of the poor and destitute in Calcutta, India, and for her tireless efforts in promoting peace and humanitarianism. Mother Teresa's lifelong commitment to helping those in need and her dedication to humanitarian causes made her a global symbol of compassion and service, and the Nobel Peace Prize recognition was a testament to her extraordinary contributions to the world.

17 October - National Pasta Day

 

National Pasta Day in the USA is celebrated annually on October 17, a day dedicated to honoring the beloved dish that has become a staple in kitchens across the country. While pasta's origins trace back to Italy, it has been embraced worldwide, particularly in the United States, where it is enjoyed in various forms and flavors. This day is an opportunity to celebrate pasta’s versatility, history, and the joy it brings to countless meals.

From traditional Italian favorites like spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli to creative modern takes like gluten-free or vegetable-based pastas, the dish can be adapted to suit any palate. Whether served in a rich marinara sauce, creamy Alfredo, or a simple olive oil and garlic blend, pasta’s adaptability makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

National Pasta Day encourages people to get creative in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and ingredients or indulging in classic dishes. Restaurants across the country often mark the occasion with special offers and dishes, while food lovers celebrate with pasta-themed events and meals. Beyond its delicious appeal, pasta is also valued for its cultural significance, representing family, tradition, and comfort.

 

17 October - Meera Bai Jayanti

 

Meera Bai Jayanti, celebrated annually on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, marks the birth anniversary of the revered 16th-century poet-saint Meera Bai. In 2024, this day will fall on Sunday, 17 October . Meera Bai, known for her unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna, is one of the most beloved figures of the Bhakti movement. Born into a Rajput royal family, her life was marked by her deep spiritual connection with Krishna, whom she regarded as her divine husband. Despite societal and familial pressures, Meera Bai chose the path of devotion, composing heartfelt bhajans that express her profound love and longing for Krishna.

On Meera Bai Jayanti, devotees across India celebrate her legacy by organizing special prayers, kirtans, and gatherings, especially in temples dedicated to Krishna. Her songs, rich with spiritual fervor, are sung to remember her life and teachings. The day is not only a tribute to her contributions to devotional literature but also a celebration of her defiance of social norms in pursuit of spiritual truth. Meera Bai's life continues to inspire countless devotees, and her Jayanti serves as a reminder of the power of faith, love, and devotion in transcending the material world.

17 October - Sarangadhar Das birth anniversary

 

Sarangadhar Das (also spelled Sarangadhar Das) was a notable Indian freedom fighter and social reformer who played a significant role in the struggle for India's independence. Here is a summary of his life and contributions:

Early Life and Background

• Birth: Sarangadhar Das was born on 17 October 1886, in the village of Radhanagar, in the present-day state of Odisha, India.
• Education: He was educated in traditional Indian schools and later in a British-run school, which exposed him to Western ideas and the growing nationalist sentiments.

Contribution to Freedom Movement

• Social Reform: Sarangadhar Das was deeply involved in social reform activities, focusing on improving the conditions of the underprivileged and advocating for social justice.
• Indian National Congress: He was an active member of the Indian National Congress, contributing to the nationalist movement by organizing and participating in various campaigns for India's independence from British rule.
• Swadeshi Movement: Sarangadhar Das was a supporter of the Swadeshi Movement, which promoted the use of Indian-made goods and the boycott of British products as a means of economic resistance against colonial rule.

Political Involvement

• Leadership: He held several leadership positions within the Indian National Congress and was instrumental in organizing grassroots support for the independence movement.
• Public Speaking: Known for his oratory skills, Sarangadhar Das effectively communicated nationalist ideas and mobilized public opinion against British colonial policies.

Legacy and Impact

• Influence: Sarangadhar Das’s efforts in social reform and political activism made a significant impact on the freedom movement in Odisha and beyond. He is remembered for his dedication to both social justice and national independence.
• Recognition: His contributions to India's struggle for independence and his role in the social reform movement are recognized and respected in the history of Indian nationalism.

Sarangadhar Das’s life and work reflect the broader efforts of many Indian leaders who fought for the country's independence and worked towards societal improvement. His legacy continues to be honored as part of India's rich history of freedom struggle and social reform.

17 October - University of Greifswald was founded in 1456

 

The University of Greifswald was founded on October 17, 1456. It's one of the oldest universities in Europe and has a remarkable history of academic and cultural significance.

The University of Greifswald, located in the town of Greifswald in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Here are some key points about the University of Greifswald:

1. History: Established on October 17, 1456, the University of Greifswald is among the oldest universities in Europe, and it has a rich history. It was founded during the time of the Hanseatic League, a powerful medieval trading confederation.

2. Academics: The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. It covers various fields of study, with a particular focus on research and academic excellence.

3. Notable Alumni: The university boasts a long list of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Notable figures who studied at the University of Greifswald include Ernst Moritz Arndt, a renowned poet and political writer, and Caspar David Friedrich, a famous German Romantic painter.

4. Research: The University of Greifswald is known for its research activities, particularly in fields like medicine, theology, law, and natural sciences. It is associated with several research institutes and projects.

5. Location: Greifswald is a picturesque town located on the Baltic Sea coast in northeastern Germany. The town and the university are known for their historical charm and academic traditions.

6. International Collaboration: Like many universities, the University of Greifswald actively engages in international collaboration and partnerships, contributing to global research and academic initiatives.

The University of Greifswald is a venerable institution with a strong tradition of academic excellence and research, and it continues to be an important center of learning and culture in Germany.

 

17 October - Sir Syed Ahmed Khan birth anniversary

 

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a prominent 19th-century Indian Muslim scholar, reformer, and educator. He was born on October 17, 1817, in Delhi, India, and he passed away on March 27, 1898.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan is most well-known for his efforts in the socio-educational upliftment of Muslims in India during the British colonial period. He played a significant role in promoting modern education among Muslims and advocating for their rights and empowerment in a rapidly changing social and political landscape. Some key points about him include:

1. Educational Reforms: Sir Syed was a pioneer in modern education for Muslims in India. He founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875, which later became the Aligarh Muslim University. His efforts aimed at blending traditional Islamic education with modern Western knowledge.

2. Advocate for Social Reforms: He promoted social reforms among the Muslim community, encouraging them to embrace modern science, rationality, and a more progressive outlook, while also preserving their cultural and religious identity.

3. Literary Contributions: Sir Syed was a prolific writer and scholar. He wrote on various subjects, including history, religion, and culture, and his works contributed to the intellectual development of the Muslim community.

4. Political Engagement: He was also involved in political activities and was a staunch supporter of the socio-political rights of Muslims. He advocated for constitutional reforms and the upliftment of the Muslim community within the framework of the British colonial rule.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's legacy as an educator, reformer, and advocate for Muslim empowerment in India endures to this day. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Indian history and is remembered for his significant contributions to the modernization and empowerment of the Muslim community.