12 May - George Carlin American comedian, writer, and social critic

 

George Carlin was an iconic American comedian, writer, and social critic known for his sharp wit, provocative humor, and fearless exploration of taboo topics. Born on 12 May 1937, in New York City, Carlin's early career saw him performing more conventional, clean-cut routines on shows like The Tonight Show in the 1960s. However, by the 1970s, he embraced the counter-culture movement, completely transforming his style to focus on political and social commentary. His most famous routine, "Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television," became a landmark in discussions about censorship and free speech, eventually leading to a U.S. Supreme Court case, FCC v. Pacifica Foundation, in 1978. Known for his dark humor, biting critiques of organized religion, government, and consumer culture, Carlin's work reflected a deep cynicism about society's institutions.

Throughout his career, he released 14 stand-up comedy specials, including Jammin' in New York (1992) and It's Bad for Ya (2008), the latter being his final special before his death. Carlin also found success in acting, with notable roles in films like Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989) and as the voice of the narrator in Thomas & Friends. His books, such as Brain Droppings (1997), offered further insight into his observations on language and society. Despite his controversial material, Carlin won four Grammy Awards for his comedy albums and was posthumously awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor in 2008. He passed away on  22 June 2008, at the age of 71 due to heart failure, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and groundbreaking comedians of all time. His fearless approach to stand-up and his sharp critique of societal norms continue to inspire future generations of comedians.

12 May - Kurma Jayanti

 

Kurma Jayanti is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the birth of Lord Kurma, the second avatar of Lord Vishnu. This event falls on the Purnima (full moon) day in the month of Vaishakha according to the Hindu lunar calendar, which typically corresponds to April or May in the Gregorian calendar.

Significance

Kurma Jayanti commemorates the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as a giant tortoise (Kurma) during the churning of the ocean of milk, an event known as Samudra Manthan. According to Hindu mythology, the gods (Devas) and demons (Asuras) churned the ocean to obtain the nectar of immortality (Amrita). Lord Vishnu took the form of Kurma to support Mount Mandara, which was used as the churning rod, on his back to prevent it from sinking during the process. This avatar symbolizes support and stability in times of turmoil and crisis.

Rituals and Observances

Devotees observe Kurma Jayanti with various rituals and traditions:

• Fasting: Many devotees observe a fast from sunrise to sunset, breaking it only after performing the evening rituals.
• Puja: Special prayers and pujas are conducted in temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other traditional offerings.
• Mantras and Bhajans: Chanting of Vishnu Sahasranama (a collection of a thousand names of Lord Vishnu) and singing devotional songs (bhajans) in praise of Lord Vishnu are common practices.
• Charity: Acts of charity and donations are encouraged, reflecting the virtues of generosity and compassion that Lord Vishnu embodies.
• Reading Scriptures: Devotees read and listen to stories from the Puranas, particularly those related to the Kurma avatar and Samudra Manthan.

Cultural Impact

Kurma Jayanti is celebrated with great devotion in many parts of India, especially in regions where Vishnu worship is predominant. Temples organize special events and ceremonies, attracting large gatherings of devotees who come to seek the blessings of Lord Vishnu. The festival not only reinforces the importance of faith and devotion but also highlights the eternal cosmic principles represented by the avatars of Vishnu.

In essence, Kurma Jayanti is a day of spiritual reflection, devotion, and celebration, honoring the divine intervention of Lord Vishnu in preserving cosmic order and supporting the forces of good in the universe.

 

12 May - S Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, first woman foreign ambassador, was received in US

 

Sarojini Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, an Indian diplomat and politician, was indeed the first woman to hold the position of ambassador from India. She was received as India's Ambassador to the United States on May 12, 1949.

Vijaya Laxmi Pandit had a remarkable career in diplomacy and public service. Prior to her appointment as Ambassador to the United States, she had served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 1947 to 1949. Her tenure as Ambassador to the United States marked a significant milestone not only in her own career but also in the history of Indian diplomacy, as she broke barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field.

During her time as Ambassador to the United States, Vijaya Laxmi Pandit played a crucial role in fostering Indo-U.S. relations and advocating for India's interests on the global stage. Her diplomatic skills, intellect, and dedication to public service earned her widespread respect both at home and abroad.

Vijaya Laxmi Pandit's appointment as India's Ambassador to the United States on May 12, 1949, remains a landmark moment in the history of women in diplomacy and serves as an inspiration to women in India and around the world who aspire to leadership roles in international affairs.

12 May - George VI is crowned in 1937

 

George VI was crowned on 12 May 1937. He became King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, as well as Emperor of India, following the abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII, in December 1936.

The coronation of George VI took place at Westminster Abbey in London. It was a significant event in British history, occurring during a time of political and social change, both domestically and internationally. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries, heads of state, and members of the royal family, and it was broadcast on radio to millions of listeners around the world.

George VI's reign was marked by various challenges, including World War II, the decolonization of the British Empire, and the transformation of Britain into a modern welfare state. Despite these challenges, George VI was a popular and respected monarch, known for his steadfast leadership and sense of duty.

His coronation symbolized continuity and stability during a period of uncertainty, and it affirmed the monarchy's enduring role in British society. George VI reigned until his death in 1952 when he was succeeded by his daughter, Queen Elizabeth II.

12 May - Rash Behari Bose, revolutionary leader, left India by boarding a Japanese steamer ''Sanuki Maru''.

 

Rash Behari Bose, a prominent revolutionary leader in the Indian independence movement, left India by boarding a Japanese steamer named "Sanuki Maru" under the assumed name of P. N. Tagore to evade the British authorities. This event took place in 12 May 1915.

Rash Behari Bose was a key figure in the movement against British colonial rule in India. He was associated with various revolutionary organizations, including the Ghadar Party, which aimed to overthrow British rule through armed struggle.

Faced with the British crackdown on revolutionary activities in India, Bose decided to leave the country to seek support for the independence movement abroad. He traveled to Japan, where he eventually settled and continued his anti-British activities from exile.

In Japan, Bose played a significant role in fostering Indo-Japanese relations and organizing Indian expatriates to support the cause of Indian independence. He established the Indian Independence League and later collaborated with the Japanese during World War II to form the Indian National Army (INA), led by Subhas Chandra Bose.