26 February - 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela

 

The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest and most sacred religious gatherings in the world, commenced on 13 January 2025, and will culminate on 26 February 2025, coinciding with Maha Shivratri. Held in Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh, this grand event takes place every 12 years, following a specific astrological alignment—when Jupiter enters Aries and the Sun and Moon align in Capricorn. The festival is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, signifying the eternal quest for spiritual liberation (moksha) and purification of sins through holy river baths (Shahi Snan).

Throughout the Maha Kumbh Mela, millions of devotees, saints, and ascetics (sadhus), including the revered Naga Sadhus, gather at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Ritual bathing is considered the most sacred act, believed to cleanse one's soul and grant divine blessings. The event also hosts religious discourses, devotional singing, and cultural performances, attracting pilgrims from across India and around the world.

The final and most auspicious bath will take place on  26 February 2025, during Maha Shivratri, a day dedicated to Lord Shiva. On this night, devotees observe fasting, chant prayers, and engage in night-long vigils to honor Shiva, believing that their devotion will lead to spiritual awakening. The festival is also significant for the Akhadas (sects of Hindu ascetics), who lead processions and rituals, reinforcing the deep-seated traditions of the Kumbh Mela.

Given its massive scale, the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to be one of the most well-organized in history, with enhanced infrastructure, security, and accommodations to manage the influx of millions of pilgrims. This sacred event not only fosters religious devotion but also serves as a cultural and spiritual unifier, preserving India’s ancient traditions while embracing modern logistical advancements.

26 February - 614th Foundation Day with a historic Bhadrakali Nagar Yatra

 

On February 26, 2025, Ahmedabad will celebrate its 614th Foundation Day with a historic Bhadrakali Nagar Yatra, the first such procession since the city's establishment in 1411. This grand event coincides with Maha Shivratri, adding to its spiritual significance.

The Nagar Yatra will commence at 8:00 AM from the Bhadrakali Temple, honoring Goddess Bhadrakali, revered as Ahmedabad's Nagardevi (city goddess). The procession will feature the sacred Paduka (footwear) of the goddess placed on a decorated chariot, symbolizing her divine presence. The 6.25 km route will traverse historic landmarks, including Teen Darwaza, Manek Chowk, Jagannath Temple, and Mahalaxmi Temple, before returning to the Bhadrakali Temple around 12:30 PM.

Organized by the Dharmaraksha Foundation and Mavins Marcom, the event is expected to draw approximately 5,000 participants, encompassing devotees, cultural groups, and city officials. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has extended full support to ensure the procession's success.

This celebration not only marks a significant milestone in Ahmedabad's history but also revives a long-lost tradition, reflecting the city's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

 

26 February - Sir Robert Watson-Watt conducted a crucial demonstration near Daventry, England

 

February 26, 1935, Sir Robert Watson-Watt conducted a crucial demonstration near Daventry, England, that played a pivotal role in the development of radar (radio detection and ranging) technology. Watson-Watt was a Scottish physicist and engineer, and his work laid the foundation for the practical implementation of radar systems.

During the demonstration, Watson-Watt successfully demonstrated the detection of an aircraft using radio waves. This breakthrough was instrumental in recognizing the potential of radar for detecting and tracking aircraft, particularly as tensions were rising in Europe in the years leading up to World War II.

The development of radar technology became crucial during the war for air defense, early warning systems, and various military applications. Watson-Watt's contributions to radar technology were significant, and he is often credited as one of the key figures in its early development.

 

26 February - John Cash birth anniversary

 

John Cash, born on 26 February 1932, was an American country singer-songwriter. Much of Cash's music contained themes of sorrow, moral tribulation, and redemption, especially in the later stages of his career. He was known for his deep, calm bass-baritone voice, the distinctive sound of his Tennessee Three backing band characterized by train-like chugging guitar rhythms, a rebelliousness coupled with an increasingly somber and humble demeanor, free prison concerts, and a trademark all-black stage wardrobe, which earned him the nickname the "Man in Black".

26 February - John Harvey Kellogg birth anniversary

 

John Harvey Kellogg (1852–1943) was an American medical doctor, nutritionist, and inventor who is best known for his contributions to the development of breakfast cereals, particularly corn flakes. He was born on  26 February 1852, in Tyrone Township, Michigan, USA.

Kellogg was a Seventh-day Adventist and worked as the chief medical officer at the Battle Creek Sanitarium in Michigan, a wellness and health facility run by the Seventh-day Adventist Church. He was a strong advocate of vegetarianism, exercise, and various health reform practices.

In the late 19th century, Kellogg and his brother, Will Keith Kellogg, were experimenting with different ways to create wholesome and easily digestible foods. They accidentally discovered a process to produce flaked cereal while working with boiled wheat. This eventually led to the creation of the famous corn flakes, which were introduced to the public in the early 20th century.

Despite being co-creators, John Harvey Kellogg and his brother had disagreements, and they parted ways. Will Keith Kellogg went on to found the Kellogg Company, a major player in the cereal industry. John Harvey Kellogg continued his work in health reform, promoting vegetarianism, exercise, and various wellness practices.

Apart from his contributions to the food industry, Kellogg was also an advocate for various health-related ideas, including the benefits of enemas, and he invented several devices to promote physical fitness. He was a prolific writer and authored numerous books and articles on health, nutrition, and medicine during his lifetime.

 

26 February - Chandragupta I succeeded his father Ghatotkacha at Patliputra in 320

 

Chandragupta I was a prominent ruler of ancient India who belonged to the Gupta dynasty. He reigned from around 320 to 335 CE. Chandragupta I is considered one of the most important rulers of the Gupta Empire, which is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of ancient Indian history.

During his reign, Chandragupta I expanded the Gupta Empire through military conquests and strategic alliances. He consolidated his power over much of northern India, particularly in the regions of Magadha and Prayaga (modern-day Allahabad). Chandragupta I's military successes helped establish the Gupta Empire as a dominant force in the Indian subcontinent.

One of the most significant aspects of Chandragupta I's reign was his marriage to Kumaradevi, a Lichchhavi princess from the kingdom of Nepal. This matrimonial alliance not only strengthened the political position of the Guptas but also facilitated cultural exchange and trade between the Gupta Empire and neighboring regions.

Chandragupta I was succeeded by his son, Samudragupta, who further expanded the Gupta Empire and is often regarded as one of its greatest rulers. Chandragupta I's reign laid the foundation for the flourishing of art, culture, and literature during the Gupta period, which continued to thrive under the rule of his successors.