12 December - The proclamation of George V as Emperor of India

 

The proclamation of George V as Emperor of India and the announcement of the shift of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi took place during the Delhi Durbar on 12 December 1911. The Delhi Durbar was a grand event held to celebrate the coronation of a new monarch or significant events related to the British Empire in India.

During the Durbar, George V made the historic announcement that the capital of British India would be moved from Calcutta to Delhi. The decision to shift the capital was influenced by various factors, including strategic considerations, as Delhi was more centrally located, and the British wanted a symbolic shift that would emphasize their control over the entire subcontinent.

The construction of New Delhi, the new capital, began in 1912 and continued for several years. Sir Edwin Lutyens and Sir Herbert Baker were the chief architects responsible for the design and layout of New Delhi. The city was officially inaugurated as the capital in 1931.

The decision to move the capital from Calcutta to Delhi had far-reaching consequences and marked an important chapter in India's history under British rule. It was a symbolic and administrative change that reflected the evolving dynamics of British imperial control in the Indian subcontinent.

 

12 December- Adoption of the Paris Agreement

 

The Paris Agreement is a landmark international treaty on climate change adopted by 196 parties at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), held in Paris, France, on  12 December 2015. It came into force on 04 November 2016, and its primary objective is to combat climate change by limiting global warming and enhancing global responses to the challenges it poses.

Key Objectives:

1. Temperature Limit:

   • Keep the increase in global average temperature well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels.
   • Pursue efforts to limit the temperature rise to 1.5°C, recognizing that this would significantly reduce the risks and impacts of climate change.

2. Adaptation and Resilience:

   • Strengthen the ability of countries to deal with the impacts of climate change.
   • Provide financial and technical support to developing nations to enhance climate resilience.

3. Mitigation:

   • Achieve a balance between greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals by carbon sinks in the second half of this century (net-zero emissions).

Features:

• Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): Each country submits its own climate action plan, outlining targets to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate impacts. These plans are updated every five years to increase ambition.

• Transparency and Accountability: Countries must regularly report on their progress towards their NDCs. A robust transparency framework tracks actions and ensures accountability.

• Support for Developing Countries: The agreement emphasizes providing financial and technical support, especially to vulnerable nations, for mitigation and adaptation.

Financing:

The Paris Agreement calls for mobilizing at least $100 billion annually from developed to developing countries to address climate needs. This target was initially set for 2020 and is now under discussion for higher financial commitments.

Global Impact:

While the agreement has led to widespread commitments from nations to reduce carbon emissions, challenges remain in achieving its goals. Global emissions are still on a trajectory leading to a warming greater than 1.5°C, underscoring the urgency of more ambitious action.

12 December - Baba Raghav Das birth anniversary

 

Baba Raghav Das (12 December 1896 - 15 January 1958), popularly known as the Gandhi of Poorvanchal, was an Indian guru, freedom fighter, reformer, philosopher, member of parliament, and an activist. He is best known for his social contributions. The government of India released a postage stamp in his honour in 1998 .

12 December - Ramanand Sagar death anniversary

 

Ramanand Sagar ( 29 December 1917 – 12 December 2005) was an Indian film director and producer, best known for his work in the field of television. He is particularly celebrated for creating the epic television series "Ramayan," which first aired in 1987 and became one of the most-watched TV shows in Indian history.

Some key points about Ramanand Sagar's life and career include:

1. Early Life: Ramanand Sagar was born as Chandramauli Chopra in Lahore (now in Pakistan). He later adopted the name Ramanand when he entered the film industry.

2. Film Career: Before venturing into television, Sagar had a successful career in the Indian film industry. He directed and produced a number of films, including popular mythological and historical films like "Anuradha" (1960) and "Charas" (1976).

3. Television Breakthrough: Ramanand Sagar achieved widespread fame and success with his television series "Ramayan," which aired on Doordarshan, the national television network of India, in 1987. "Ramayan" is an adaptation of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, and it became immensely popular, reaching a massive audience across the country.

4. Religious and Mythological Themes: Following the success of "Ramayan," Sagar continued to create television series with religious and mythological themes. He went on to produce "Krishna" and "Luv Kush," both of which were based on other Hindu epics.

5. Awards and Recognition: Ramanand Sagar received several awards for his contributions to the entertainment industry, including the Filmfare Award for Best Director for "Arzoo" in 1966.

6. Later Life: In the later years of his life, Ramanand Sagar continued to work on various television projects. He also directed a television series based on the Mahabharata.

Ramanand Sagar's impact on Indian television is substantial, especially in the realm of mythological storytelling. His series, particularly "Ramayan," had a profound cultural influence and became a cultural phenomenon in India, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of Indian television.

 

12 December - Frank Sinatra birth anniversary

 

Frank Sinatra (December 12, 1915 – May 14, 1998) was an American singer, actor, and producer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential entertainers of the 20th century. Here are some key points about Frank Sinatra:

1. Early Life: Sinatra was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, and showed an early interest in music. He began his career as a singer in the big band era and joined the Harry James and Tommy Dorsey orchestras.

2. Swing Era Success: Sinatra gained fame in the 1940s as a crooner, achieving great success with the big band sound. He became known for his distinctive voice and emotional delivery.

3. Solo Career: In the 1950s, Sinatra's career reached new heights as a solo artist. He recorded numerous hit songs, including classics like "My Way," "Strangers in the Night," and "New York, New York."

4. Acting Career: In addition to his musical career, Sinatra had a successful acting career. He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in "From Here to Eternity" (1953).

5. Rat Pack: Sinatra was a central figure in the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. They were known for their performances and camaraderie.

6. Political Involvement: Sinatra was politically active throughout his life and had associations with the Democratic Party. He was a friend of President John F. Kennedy and campaigned for him.

7. Retirement and Comeback: Sinatra briefly retired in the early 1970s but made a successful comeback with the album "Ol' Blue Eyes Is Back" (1973). He continued to perform and record until shortly before his death.

8. Legacy: Frank Sinatra's impact on popular music and culture is enduring. He is often referred to as "Ol' Blue Eyes" and "The Chairman of the Board." His contributions to the Great American Songbook are celebrated, and his influence can be seen in countless artists who followed him.

Frank Sinatra's career spanned several decades, and his influence on music and entertainment continues to be felt. His voice, style, and charisma have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

 

12 December - Kenya first Stamp issued in 1963

 

The first stamps of independent Kenya were issued on 12 December 1963. The stamps of Kenya were also valid in Uganda and Tanzania until 1976.  

Kenya used stamps of British East Africa Company (1890-1895), British East Africa (1895-1903), East Africa and Uganda Protectorates (1903-1922), Kenya and Uganda (1922-1935) and Kenya, Uganda and Tanganyika/Tanzania (1935-1976.

12 December - Bechuanaland Protectorate issues its first stamps.

 

The first stamps inscribed Bechuanaland Protectorate appeared in 1932. The 12 values, ranging from 1⁄2d to 10 shillings, all used the same design; a group of cattle next to a baobab tree, surmounted by a portrait for King George V. The usual Silver Jubilee issue appeared in 1935. 

12 December - T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai death anniversary

 

T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai (1898–1956) was a renowned Carnatic musician and one of the leading exponents of the Veena, a traditional Indian stringed musical instrument. He was born on 27 August 1898 in Tiruvidaimarudur, Tanjore district, Tamil Nadu, India.

Here are some key points about T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai:

1. Musical Background: T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai belonged to a family with a rich musical tradition. His father, Narayanaswami Pillai, was a Veena player, and Rajarathnam Pillai started his musical training under his father's guidance.

2. Veena Maestro: Rajarathnam Pillai became a highly skilled Veena player and gained recognition for his virtuosity on the instrument. He played a significant role in popularizing the Veena as a solo concert instrument.

3. Innovations in Veena Playing: He made several innovations in Veena playing, contributing to the evolution of the instrument's technique and style. His playing was noted for its clarity, precision, and intricate gamakas (ornamentations).

4. Performances and Recognition: T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai gave numerous concerts in India and abroad, showcasing his mastery of the Veena. He received accolades for his performances and was respected by both audiences and fellow musicians.

5. Teaching and Legacy: In addition to his performances, Rajarathnam Pillai was involved in teaching music. He trained several students, passing on his knowledge and expertise in Veena playing. Many of his disciples went on to become accomplished musicians.

6. Awards: T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai received several awards and honors for his contributions to Carnatic music. His legacy lives on through the impact he had on the Veena tradition and the students he mentored.

T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai is remembered as a prominent figure in the world of Carnatic music, particularly for his significant contributions to the Veena. His dedication to the art form and his innovations in Veena playing have left a lasting impression on the rich musical heritage of South India. He died on 12 December 1956.