22 December - Unity Day in Zimbabwe

 

Unity Day in Zimbabwe is a national holiday observed annually on 22 December . It commemorates the signing of the Unity Accord in 1987 between two key political parties, the Zimbabwe African National Union (ZANU), led by Robert Mugabe, and the Zimbabwe African People's Union (ZAPU), led by Joshua Nkomo. This historic agreement marked the end of years of political violence and ethnic tensions between the two factions, particularly the Gukurahundi conflict in the Matabeleland and Midlands regions.

The Unity Accord brought together the two parties into a single entity, ZANU-PF, with the goal of fostering national unity and reconciliation. Unity Day serves as a reminder of the importance of peace and harmony in Zimbabwe's diverse society and provides an opportunity for reflection on the need for continued efforts toward social cohesion.

On this day, Zimbabweans typically hold commemorative events, including speeches by political leaders, cultural activities, and moments of remembrance for those who lost their lives during the period of unrest. It is a time for the nation to celebrate its shared identity and commitment to unity, peace, and progress.

 

22 December - The first electric Christmas lights were used by Edward H. Johnson

On 22 December 1882, Edward H. Johnson, a close associate of Thomas Edison, made history by introducing the first electric Christmas lights. Johnson, who managed the Edison Electric Light Company, showcased this groundbreaking invention in his home in New York City. He hand-wired 80 red, white, and blue electric bulbs and strung them around a rotating Christmas tree, mesmerizing onlookers with the display. This innovation marked a significant shift from the use of candles, which posed a fire hazard, to a safer and more visually dynamic form of holiday decoration. Although initially considered a novelty, Johnson's invention laid the foundation for the widespread adoption of electric Christmas lights, transforming holiday traditions and inspiring generations of festive celebrations.

22 December - Bhanu Saptami

 

Bhanu Saptami is a significant Hindu observance dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya (the Sun God). Celebrated on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in certain months, Bhanu Saptami honors the Sun as the life-giving force of the universe and a symbol of health, vitality, and spiritual enlightenment. The day is also known as Surya Jayanti, marking the appearance of Surya in Vedic tradition.

Rituals and Practices:

1. Bathing Rituals: Devotees often begin the day with a holy bath in rivers or water bodies, particularly those considered sacred.
2. Sun Worship: Offerings such as water (Arghya), red flowers, rice, and jaggery are made to the Sun at sunrise while reciting mantras like the Surya Gayatri or Aditya Hridayam.
3. Fasting: Observers often fast throughout the day, consuming fruits and light food after offering prayers.
4. Temple Visits: Special pujas and rituals are conducted in Surya temples, and devotees seek blessings for good health, prosperity, and removal of obstacles.

Significance:

Bhanu Saptami underscores the importance of the Sun as a celestial force governing life and energy. It is believed that observing this day with devotion can cleanse sins, bring peace, and improve overall well-being. In some regions, the day is also associated with honoring the Sapta Chiranjeevis (seven immortal beings in Hinduism) and the cosmic role of the Sun in sustaining life on Earth.

22 December - MGM's Doctor Zhivago premiered

 

On 22 December 1965, MGM's Doctor Zhivago premiered, captivating audiences with its sweeping romantic narrative and breathtaking visuals. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker David Lean, the movie was an adaptation of Boris Pasternak's Nobel Prize-winning novel. Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and subsequent civil war, the story follows Yuri Zhivago, a compassionate doctor and poet played by Omar Sharif, as he navigates love and turmoil in a world turned upside down. His passionate yet ill-fated relationship with Lara Antipova, portrayed by Julie Christie, unfolds amidst political upheaval and personal sacrifice.

The film is celebrated for its masterful cinematography by Freddie Young, vividly depicting the harsh Russian landscapes, and its unforgettable musical score by Maurice Jarre, including the iconic "Lara's Theme." Although initially met with mixed critical reviews, Doctor Zhivago became a box office phenomenon, earning five Academy Awards out of ten nominations. Its themes of love, loss, and resilience resonated deeply with audiences worldwide, establishing the film as a timeless classic and a cornerstone of cinematic history.

22 December - The first freight train was operated in India in 1851

 

In 1844, the East India Company was asked to assist two railway companies to set up a railway system in India. On 22 December 1851, the first train in India became operational. It was a freight train that carried clay to build the Ganga canal and the journey was from Roorkee, now in Uttarakhand, to Piran Kaliyar, about 10km away.

About a year and a half later, the first passenger train service would be inaugurated Bori Bunder station in Bombay to Tannah (now Thane).

22 December - Winter Solstice

 

The winter solstice is an astronomical event that occurs each year when the Earth's axial tilt is farthest away from the sun, resulting in the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, the winter solstice marks the longest day and shortest night.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice usually falls around 22 December.  It's a key moment in the Earth's orbit around the sun and marks the official beginning of winter. After the winter solstice, the days gradually start to lengthen, and daylight hours increase.

The winter solstice has been marked and celebrated by various cultures and civilizations throughout history. Many festivals and traditions are associated with this celestial event, often symbolizing themes of rebirth, renewal, and the triumph of light over darkness.

 

22 December - Maulana Mazharul Haque birth anniversary

 

Maulana Mazharul Haque (22 December 1866 – 2 January 1930) was an educator, lawyer, independence activist of the Indian National Movement.

Throughout his career, Mazharul Haque was a proponent of Hindu-Muslim unity. The first president of India, Rajendra Prasad, dedicated his book, India Divided to his memory and described him as a "devout Muslim and passionate patriot".