List of days of the year

21 November - Naik Yadunath Singh birth anniversary

 



Naik Yadunath Singh, born on November 21, 1916, in the village of Khajuri in the Shahjahanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, India, displayed extraordinary valor and commitment during his military service. He was a member of the 1st Battalion, Rajput Regiment of the Indian Army.

During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-1948, Naik Yadunath Singh's unit was stationed in the Tithwal sector of Jammu and Kashmir. On February 6, 1948, his platoon was tasked with defending a vital position against a fierce attack by Pakistani forces. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Singh's leadership and bravery came to the fore.

In the early hours of February 6, the enemy launched a major offensive, attacking the post with overwhelming force. Singh's section faced intense machine-gun and mortar fire. Amid the chaos, Singh took control of a Bren gun and returned fire with precision, inflicting significant casualties on the enemy. His fearless actions inspired his men to hold their ground despite the relentless assault.

During the battle, Naik Yadunath Singh sustained multiple wounds but refused to be evacuated. He continued to fight, rallying his comrades and leading a counter-charge against the enemy forces. His daring and selfless actions were instrumental in repulsing the enemy attack and holding the post.

Tragically, Naik Yadunath Singh succumbed to his injuries during the battle. His sacrifice was not in vain, as his efforts helped to secure a crucial victory for the Indian forces in the region. For his exceptional gallantry and indomitable spirit, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor.

Naik Yadunath Singh's legacy endures as a symbol of courage and dedication. His story continues to inspire and motivate generations of Indian soldiers, serving as a testament to the valor and sacrifice of those who defend their nation.

21 November - Harekrushna Mahtab birth anniversary

 


Harekrushna Mahtab, an Indian politician and freedom fighter, was born on November 21, 1899. He was a prominent leader in the state of Odisha (formerly Orissa). Harekrushna Mahtab played a significant role in India's struggle for independence.

He served as the Chief Minister of Odisha from 1946 to 1950 and again from 1956 to 1961. Harekrushna Mahtab was also a member of the Constituent Assembly of India and later a Member of Parliament.

Harekrushna Mahtab passed away on January 2, 1987. His contributions to the political and social development of Odisha and India are remembered and honored.

21 November - The first manned hot air balloon flight took place in 1783

 


On November 21, 1783, the first manned hot air balloon flight took place. The Montgolfier brothers, Joseph and Étienne, launched their hot air balloon in Paris, France. The balloon, called the "Aerostat Réveillon," was a paper and fabric envelope filled with hot air produced by a fire fueled with straw and wool. The balloon successfully lifted off with two passengers, Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent, Marquis d'Arlandes, making them the first humans to experience controlled flight.

This event marked a significant milestone in the history of aviation and aeronautics, as it demonstrated the feasibility of human flight using lighter-than-air craft. The Montgolfier brothers' successful balloon flight paved the way for further advancements in aviation technology and contributed to the development of future air travel.

The balloon reached an altitude of at least 500 feet and traveled about 5½ miles before landing safely 25 minutes later.