01 December - Damrong Rajanubhab Day (Thailand)

 

Damrong Rajanubhab Day is an annual observance in Thailand, celebrated on December 1, to honor the life and contributions of Prince Damrong Rajanubhab (1862–1943), one of Thailand's most influential historical figures.

Key Facts About Prince Damrong Rajanubhab:

1. Early Life:

   • Born on June 21, 1862, as a son of King Rama IV (Mongkut), Prince Damrong was a member of the Chakri dynasty.
   • He was deeply involved in public administration and intellectual pursuits, with a particular focus on history, education, and government reform.

2. Major Contributions:

   • Modernization of Thai Administration: As the Minister of the Interior (1892–1915) under King Rama V, Prince Damrong reorganized the provincial administration, strengthening central authority and modernizing governance.
   • Historical Research: Widely regarded as the "Father of Thai History," he wrote extensively about Thai culture, history, and literature.
   • Cultural Preservation: He played a key role in preserving Thai heritage by collecting and documenting historical records, monuments, and traditional practices.
   • Education: Prince Damrong championed educational reform and helped establish several institutions, including the National Library of Thailand.

3. Legacy:

   • Prince Damrong Rajanubhab’s contributions to Thailand’s modernization and cultural preservation earned him lasting respect. He was the first Thai person to be awarded the UNESCO Memory of the World status for his historical works.

Significance of Damrong Rajanubhab Day:

• Remembrance: December 1 marks the day of his passing in 1943, and the observance commemorates his life and enduring impact on Thailand.
• Activities:
  • Ceremonies are held at institutions named after him, such as the Damrong Rajanubhab Library.
  • Discussions and exhibitions showcase his works and their relevance to Thai identity and governance.

Damrong Rajanubhab Day is a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and progressive reform in shaping a nation's future.

01 December - Bhim Sen Sacharr birth anniversary

 

Bhim Sen Sachar ( 01 December 1894 – 18 January 1978) was an Indian politician who served three times as the Chief Minister of Punjab.

Shri Sachar became the Chief Minister of Punjab, in 1949. In the 1952 general election, he was elected a member of the Punjab Assembly from the Ludhiana city constituency. He again became the Chief Minister of Punjab from 1952-56. He was appointed Governor of Orissa from September 1956 to July 1957 and later the Governor of Andhra Pradesh from 1959-1962. He was the High Commissioner for India in Ceylon during 1964-66.

He also held the offices of Chairman of Guru Nanak Foundation, Punjab, and Chairman of Khadi Gram Udyog Sangh. He died on 18 January 1978

01 December - Raja Mahendra Pratap birth anniversary

 

Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh, born on 01 December 1886, in Hathras, Uttar Pradesh, was an Indian freedom fighter, journalist, writer, and revolutionary who played a significant role in the Indian independence movement. He was a visionary leader known for his efforts to mobilize international support for India's struggle for freedom and his progressive ideas on social reform.

Early Life and Education

Raja Mahendra Pratap hailed from the royal family of Mursan in the Hathras district. He received his early education at the Government High School in Aligarh and later attended the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College (now Aligarh Muslim University). His exposure to diverse ideas and his interaction with prominent leaders of the time significantly influenced his thoughts and future actions.

Contributions to the Freedom Struggle

Provisional Government of India: One of Raja Mahendra Pratap's most notable contributions was the establishment of the Provisional Government of India in Kabul, Afghanistan, on 01 December 1915. He declared himself the President and sought international recognition for this government in exile. This initiative aimed to gain support from foreign powers for India's independence from British rule.

Global Advocacy: Pratap traveled extensively across the world, meeting with leaders and intellectuals to garner support for India's independence. He visited countries like Japan, Germany, and the United States, using his diplomatic skills to advocate for India's cause. His efforts were instrumental in keeping the spirit of the freedom movement alive on the global stage.

Collaboration with Revolutionaries: He worked closely with other prominent revolutionaries, including Rash Behari Bose and Lala Har Dayal, to coordinate efforts against the British colonial government. His collaboration with these leaders underscored his commitment to the cause and his belief in united action.

Social Reforms and Ideals

Education and Social Upliftment: Raja Mahendra Pratap was a strong advocate for education and social reforms. He founded several educational institutions, including the Prem Mahavidyalaya in Vrindavan, which emphasized the importance of modern education combined with traditional values.

Progressive Views: He held progressive views on various social issues, including the upliftment of the oppressed and marginalized sections of society. His writings and speeches often highlighted the need for social equality and justice.

Later Life and Legacy

After India gained independence in 1947, Raja Mahendra Pratap continued his work in social reform and education. He was elected to the Lok Sabha (the lower house of India's Parliament) in 1957 from Mathura as an independent candidate, where he continued to advocate for progressive policies and the welfare of the common people.

Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh passed away on 29 April 1979. His legacy is remembered for his relentless pursuit of India's independence, his visionary ideas on education and social reform, and his efforts to unite people across the globe for a common cause. His life and work remain a source of inspiration for those dedicated to the principles of justice, equality, and freedom.

01 December - Malta issued first stamp in 1860

On 01 December 1860, Malta issued its first stamp, which is known as the halfpenny yellow. It was re-printed 29 times in different watermarks, perforations and shades. This stamp was used for inland postage only, while British stamps continued to be used for overseas mail.

01 December - Antarctica Day

 

Antarctica Day is observed on 01 December each year. This day marks the anniversary of the signing of the Antarctic Treaty on December 1, 1959, which established Antarctica as a scientific preserve and set it aside for peaceful purposes.