19 May - Manik Bandopadhyay birth anniversary

 

Manik Bandopadhyay, born Prabodh Kumar Bandopadhyay on May 19, 1908, in Dumka (now in Jharkhand, India), was a prominent Bengali writer and novelist, considered one of the leading figures of modern Bengali literature. He was born into a middle-class Brahmin family, and his father, Harihar Bandopadhyay, was a school teacher. Manik attended various schools across Bengal due to his father's transferable job, and later enrolled in Presidency College, Kolkata, to study mathematics, though he eventually left without completing his degree. His literary career began while he was still a student, with his first published story "Atashi Mami" appearing in the magazine Bichitra in 1928. Manik's writing often delved into the lives of the impoverished and downtrodden, exploring human suffering, social injustices, and the complexities of human relationships, influenced by both Freudian psychoanalysis and Marxist theory.

Among his major works are the novels "Padma Nadir Majhi" (The Boatman of the River Padma), which depicts the lives of fishermen living by the Padma River and their struggle for survival, and "Putul Nacher Itikatha" (The Puppet's Tale), which examines the socio-economic conditions of rural Bengal and the impact of capitalism on village life. Manik Bandopadhyay also wrote numerous short stories known for their powerful narrative style and deep psychological insights, along with essays, plays, and children's literature, contributing richly to Bengali literature across genres.

Despite his literary success, Manik faced numerous personal challenges. He was an active member of the Communist Party, and his works often reflected his political beliefs. However, he struggled with alcoholism and suffered from various health issues throughout his life, often facing financial difficulties. Manik Bandopadhyay passed away on December 3, 1956, in Kolkata, at the age of 48. His impact on Bengali literature is profound, with his works continuing to be studied for their literary merit and social relevance. Several of his works have been adapted into films and television series, bringing his stories to a wider audience. Manik's exploration of social issues, human psychology, and the struggles of common people ensures his continued relevance and popularity, making him a lasting and significant figure in Bengali literature.

 

19 May - Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis death anniversary

 

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, commonly known as Jackie Kennedy, was an American socialite, writer, photographer, and book editor who served as First Lady of the United States from 1961 to 1963 as the wife of President John F. Kennedy. She was renowned for her style, elegance, and contributions to the arts and historic preservation.

Early Life and Education

• Born: Jacqueline Lee Bouvier on July 28, 1929, in Southampton, New York.
• Family: Daughter of John Vernou Bouvier III, a stockbroker, and Janet Norton Lee, a socialite.
• Education: Attended Vassar College, studied abroad in France, and graduated from George Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in French literature.

Marriage to John F. Kennedy

• Married: John F. Kennedy on September 12, 1953.
• Children: Caroline Kennedy (born 1957) and John F. Kennedy Jr. (born 1960). The couple also had two other children who died in infancy, Arabella and Patrick.

First Lady of the United States

• Tenure: January 20, 1961 – November 22, 1963.
• Style and Influence: Jackie Kennedy became a global fashion icon, known for her chic and sophisticated style. She popularized pillbox hats, tailored suits, and A-line dresses.
• White House Restoration: She undertook a major renovation and restoration of the White House, aiming to make it a museum of American history and culture. She established the White House Historical Association and led a televised tour of the newly restored White House.
• Cultural Contributions: Advocated for the arts and historic preservation, and supported initiatives to preserve Lafayette Square in Washington, D.C., and Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

Assassination of John F. Kennedy

• Event: On November 22, 1963, President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, while riding in a motorcade with Jackie by his side.
• Aftermath: Jackie Kennedy's poise and dignity during the national mourning period earned her widespread admiration. Her iconic pink suit, stained with her husband's blood, became a symbol of the tragic day.

Later Life

• Marriage to Aristotle Onassis: Married Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis on October 20, 1968. She was known as Jacqueline Onassis or Jackie O after this marriage.
• Career: After Onassis's death in 1975, Jackie Kennedy Onassis embarked on a successful career as a book editor in New York City, working for Viking Press and later Doubleday.
• Death: Died on May 19, 1994, in New York City from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. She was buried beside President Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery.

Legacy

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis remains an enduring figure in American history, remembered for her elegance, cultural contributions, and the grace with which she navigated the tragedies and public life she faced. Her efforts in historic preservation and her impact on American fashion and style continue to be celebrated.

19 May - Ringling Bros formed

 

On May 19, 1884, the Ringling Bros. Circus was launched, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most famous and long-running circuses in history. Founded by five of the seven Ringling brothers—Albert, August, Otto, Alfred, and Charles—the circus began as a small traveling show in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and grew into a major entertainment phenomenon.

Significance of the Ringling Bros. Circus

1. Cultural Impact: The Ringling Bros. Circus became an iconic part of American culture, known for its grand performances, exotic animals, skilled performers, and elaborate productions. It brought entertainment to towns and cities across the country, becoming a beloved institution.

2. Expansion and Mergers: In 1907, the Ringling brothers purchased the Barnum & Bailey Circus, another major American circus. The two circuses operated separately until 1919 when they merged to form the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, dubbed "The Greatest Show on Earth."

3. Innovation in Entertainment: The Ringling Bros. were pioneers in the circus industry, introducing innovative acts and production techniques. They were known for their large-scale productions and the introduction of new acts that captivated audiences.

Milestones in Ringling Bros. History

• 1884: The Ringling Bros. Circus is founded.
• 1907: Ringling Bros. purchase Barnum & Bailey Circus.
• 1919: The circuses merge to become the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.
• 1956: The circus transitions from traveling by train to performing in stationary venues, ending its traditional big top tent performances.
• 2017: The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus closes after 146 years of operation, citing declining ticket sales and changing public attitudes toward circus animal performances.

Legacy

The legacy of the Ringling Bros. Circus is preserved through various means:

• Ringling Bros. Circus Museum: The Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin, showcases the history and memorabilia of the Ringling Bros. Circus, preserving its rich heritage.
• Education and Performing Arts: The legacy of the Ringling Bros. continues in the training and development of circus arts through institutions like the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College, which trained many famous clowns and performers.
• Pop Culture: The influence of the Ringling Bros. Circus can still be seen in various forms of entertainment and media, reflecting the enduring fascination with the spectacle and artistry of the circus.

Conclusion

The launch of the Ringling Bros. Circus on May 19, 1884, marked the beginning of an era in entertainment that captivated audiences for over a century. Its innovative approach to circus performances, significant cultural impact, and enduring legacy continue to be celebrated and remembered as an important part of American history.

19 May - Plant Something Day in the USA

 

Plant Something Day in the USA is celebrated on May 19th each year. This day encourages people to get involved in planting activities, whether it's planting trees, flowers, vegetables, or herbs. The goal is to promote environmental stewardship, enhance green spaces, and foster a love for gardening and nature.

Significance of Plant Something Day

1. Environmental Benefits: Planting contributes to the environment by improving air quality, supporting wildlife habitats, and reducing carbon footprints. Trees and plants play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

2. Health and Well-being: Gardening and planting have numerous physical and mental health benefits. They provide a form of exercise, reduce stress, and offer a sense of accomplishment and connection to nature.

3. Community and Beautification: Planting activities can enhance community spaces, making neighborhoods more beautiful and inviting. Community gardens and green spaces also promote social interaction and cohesion.

Ways to Celebrate Plant Something Day

• Plant a Garden: Start a garden in your backyard, on your balcony, or even indoors. Choose a variety of plants that suit your environment and preferences, such as vegetables, herbs, flowers, or shrubs.

• Join a Community Planting Event: Participate in local planting events organized by community groups, schools, or environmental organizations. These events often involve planting trees, creating community gardens, or revitalizing public spaces.

• Educate and Involve Kids: Teach children about the importance of plants and how to care for them. Engage them in planting activities, which can be both educational and fun. It’s a great way to instill a love for nature and responsibility.

• Support Local Nurseries and Garden Centers: Visit local nurseries or garden centers to purchase plants, seeds, and gardening supplies. Supporting these businesses helps promote local economies and gardening initiatives.

• Share Your Experience: Document your planting activities and share them on social media using the hashtag #PlantSomethingDay. Encourage others to join in and spread awareness about the benefits of planting.

Conclusion

Plant Something Day is a wonderful opportunity to contribute positively to the environment, improve personal and community spaces, and enjoy the many benefits of gardening. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a beginner, planting something on this day can make a meaningful impact and inspire others to do the same.