01 March - Pareshchandra Bhattacharya birth anniversary

 

Pareshchandra Bhattacharya, born on 1 March 1903, former Governer of Indian Reserve Bank. He opposed the nationalising of private banks in India and reduced the size of the currency notes for economic reasons. Industrial Development Bank of India & Unit Trust of India were established during his tenure.

01 March - United States issued its first postage stamps depicting scenes rather than portraits

 

On 01 March 1869, the United States issued its first postage stamps depicting scenes rather than portraits of famous individuals. These stamps are collectively known as the "Pictorial Issue" and were a departure from the previous practice of featuring the likenesses of political figures on postage stamps.

Ten types of stamp in denominations between one cent and ninety cents were initially offered in the series, with eight of these introduced on March 19 and 20, 1869 and the two greatest values being distributed somewhat later.

01 March - Purandhar Treaty was singed between Nana Phadnavis and British Army in 1776

 

It was an agreement signed between the Maratha Empire and the British East India Company. The treaty was signed on 1 March 1776, at Purandhar fort in Maharashtra, India.

Nana Phadnavis, also known as Balaji Janardan Bhanu, was a prominent minister and statesman in the Maratha Empire during that period. The treaty was a result of the First Anglo-Maratha War (1775–1782), and it marked the end of hostilities between the Marathas and the British.

The key provisions of the Purandhar Treaty included the recognition of the British acquisition of certain territories, as well as agreements on mutual military assistance. The treaty aimed to establish a more stable relationship between the Marathas and the British, but tensions and conflicts persisted, leading to subsequent Anglo-Maratha wars in the years to come.

01 March - National Pig Day (United States)

 

National Pig Day is indeed celebrated on March 1st in the United States. This light-hearted observance is dedicated to appreciating pigs and promoting their welfare. It was established in 1972 by two sisters, Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave, who were teachers and wanted to encourage awareness and understanding of these intelligent animals.

On National Pig Day, people may engage in activities that celebrate pigs, including learning about their behavior, sharing pig-related stories, cooking pork dishes, or even supporting animal welfare organizations.

It's worth noting that while National Pig Day is a fun observance, it also highlights the importance of treating animals with kindness and respect.

 

01 March - Mărțișor (Romania and Moldova)

 

Mărțișor is a traditional celebration in Romania and Moldova, observed on March 1st. The name "Mărțișor" is a diminutive of "martie," the Romanian word for March. The celebration has ancient roots and is associated with the arrival of spring.

Key elements of the Mărțișor tradition include:

1. Red and White Threads: People wear or exchange small tokens called "mărțișoare," which are usually red and white threads tied together. The red and white colors symbolize the transition from winter to spring and are believed to bring good luck and health.

2. Brooches and Pendants: Mărțișoare often take the form of small brooches or pendants made of intertwined red and white threads, sometimes adorned with small charms, flowers, or other decorative elements.

3. Worn for a Limited Time: It is customary to wear the Mărțișor throughout March. Some traditions suggest that when individuals see the first signs of spring, such as a blooming tree or a swallow, they should tie the Mărțișor to a branch and make a wish.

4. Symbolism: Beyond its association with spring, the red and white threads of the Mărțișor can carry various symbolic meanings, such as the balance between opposing forces, life, and purity.

Mărțișor is a widely cherished tradition in Romania and Moldova, and the exchange of these tokens is a gesture of friendship, goodwill, and celebration of the changing seasons.

 

01 March - The Goa Carnival

 

The Goa Carnival is an annual festival held in the state of Goa, India. It is one of the most vibrant and colorful celebrations in the region, marking the onset of Lent and the Catholic tradition of feasting before the 40-day period of fasting and abstinence.

Here are some key features and aspects of the Goa Carnival:

1. Timing: The Goa Carnival typically takes place in February, just before the Christian season of Lent. The exact dates vary each year as they are determined by the lunar calendar.

2. Duration: The festival spans several days of lively celebrations, with parades, music, dancing, and various cultural events taking place throughout the duration.

3. Cultural Events: The Goa Carnival is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural events. Traditional and modern dance forms, music performances, and street plays are common during the festivities.

4. Float Parade: One of the highlights of the Goa Carnival is the float parade, where colorful and artistic floats move through the streets. The floats often depict various themes, and participants in colorful costumes dance and perform on the streets.

5. Music and Dance: Music and dance play a central role in the Goa Carnival. Live bands, traditional Goan music, and performances by dance troupes contribute to the lively atmosphere of the festival.

6. Street Performances: Street plays, folk dances, and other forms of entertainment take place on the streets, involving both locals and tourists in the festivities.

7. Culmination with the Black and Red Dance: The Goa Carnival concludes with the Red and Black Dance, a lively event where people dressed in red and black clothing come together for a night of music, dance, and revelry.

8. Tourist Attraction: The Goa Carnival is not only a significant cultural and religious event for the locals but also a major attraction for tourists. The festivities draw visitors from different parts of India and around the world.

9. Traditional Fare: As part of the celebration, traditional Goan cuisine is showcased, allowing people to indulge in local delicacies and specialties.

The Goa Carnival is a unique blend of cultural, religious, and festive elements, reflecting the rich heritage of the region. It provides a platform for locals and visitors to come together, celebrate, and enjoy the vibrant traditions of Goa.

Goan Carnaval Dates
2023 date	Afternoon, February 18 – midday, February 21
2024 date	Afternoon, February 10 – midday, February 13
2025 date	Afternoon, March 1 – midday, March 4