19 April - Mahatma Hansraj birth anniversary

Mahatma Hansraj, born on 19 April 1864, in Punjab, India, was a prominent Indian educationist and social reformer. He was a key figure in the Arya Samaj movement and played a crucial role in the establishment of Dayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) schools and colleges across India, aiming to provide a modern education rooted in Vedic principles. Hansraj dedicated his life to the cause of education and social upliftment, serving as the first principal of the DAV College in Lahore for 25 years without drawing any salary. His contributions significantly shaped the educational landscape of India. Mahatma Hansraj passed away on 14 November 1938, leaving behind a legacy of educational reform and social service.

19 April - Maharshi Dayanand University established in 1976

 

Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), located in Rohtak, Haryana, India, was indeed established on April 19, 1976. Named after the great philosopher Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, the university is known for its multidisciplinary approach to education and research.

MDU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various fields including arts, science, commerce, management, law, and technology. Over the years, the university has grown to become a hub of academic excellence in the region, attracting students not only from Haryana but from all over India and abroad.

The university has continually strived to uphold its motto "Knowledge, Wisdom, and Excellence" and has contributed significantly to the educational landscape of Haryana and beyond.

19 April - World's First Postmark Bishop Mark, first used in 1661

 

The world's first postmark, known as the "Bishop Mark," was first used on April 19, 1661. This historic event took place in England during the reign of King Charles II. The Bishop Mark was a type of handstamp introduced to indicate that the postage fee had been paid on a letter or parcel.

The Bishop Mark derived its name from its distinctive design, which often featured the initials or coat of arms of a bishop. Initially, the Bishop Mark was applied by local clergy members who were authorized to act as postmasters in their communities.

The introduction of the Bishop Mark was a significant development in the history of postal services, as it helped to standardize the process of postage payment and mail handling. It also provided a means of tracking the movement of mail and preventing tampering or theft.

Over time, the Bishop Mark evolved into various forms and designs, reflecting the changing postal systems and practices in different countries. Today, postmarks continue to play an essential role in mail processing and are used by postal services worldwide to indicate the date, time, and location of mailing.

 

19 April - Easter Saturday

 

Easter Saturday, also known as Holy Saturday, is the day that falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday in the Christian liturgical calendar. It commemorates the day when Jesus Christ's body lay in the tomb after his crucifixion on Good Friday and before his resurrection on Easter Sunday.

For many Christians, especially those in the Catholic, Orthodox, and some Protestant traditions, Easter Saturday is a day of reflection, mourning, and waiting. It is a time to contemplate the significance of Christ's death and the anticipation of his resurrection.

In some Christian denominations, Easter Saturday is marked with special church services, including the Easter Vigil, which is often held after sundown. The Easter Vigil is a significant liturgical celebration that includes the lighting of the Paschal candle, readings from Scripture recounting salvation history, and the celebration of the Eucharist.

In addition to its religious observance, Easter Saturday is also a day of preparation for the joyous celebration of Easter Sunday. It is a time when many families and communities prepare for Easter by decorating eggs, baking traditional Easter treats, and attending church services in anticipation of the resurrection of Christ.