23 September - The University of Allahabad was established

 

The University of Allahabad, often referred to as the "Oxford of the East," was established on 23 September 1887. Located in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh, it is one of the oldest modern universities in India. Initially founded as a unitary, teaching, and residential institution, the university played a pivotal role in shaping higher education in the country.

The institution began as an affiliated college of Calcutta University before gaining its status as a full-fledged university in 1887. Over the years, the University of Allahabad has produced numerous notable alumni, including prominent leaders, scholars, and civil servants, contributing significantly to India’s intellectual and political landscape.

In 2005, the university was restored to its original central university status, further reinforcing its legacy as a premier educational institution in India.

22 September - Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti

 

Maharaja Agrasen Jayanti is an annual festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Maharaja Agrasen, a legendary king and a revered figure among the Agrawal community in India. Maharaja Agrasen is believed to have been a symbol of peace, equality, and prosperity, advocating for non-violence, self-reliance, and social harmony.

The celebration typically takes place on the fourth day of Ashwin, the Hindu calendar month, which usually falls in September or October. The day is marked by various activities such as cultural programs, processions, and community service, especially in regions with a significant Agrawal population, such as Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Maharaja Agrasen is remembered for founding the city of Agroha and establishing a social order based on equality and helping the needy, known as "one brick, one coin" — where each family in his kingdom contributed to helping newcomers establish their livelihoods. His legacy has left a lasting impact on the community and is honored with prayers, tributes, and charitable events on his Jayanti.

18 September - U.S. Air Force Day

 

U.S. Air Force Day is observed annually on 18th September , marking the founding of the United States Air Force (USAF). It commemorates the establishment of the Air Force as a separate and independent branch of the U.S. military, which occurred on 18 September 1947, following the passage of the National Security Act of 1947. Prior to that, the Air Force was part of the U.S. Army, known as the Army Air Forces (AAF).

This day highlights the contributions and achievements of the men and women who serve in the Air Force, honoring its role in national defense and air superiority. Various events, including ceremonies, air shows, and community outreach programs, are often held to recognize the importance of the Air Force's mission in protecting the United States.

It should not be confused with Armed Forces Day, which celebrates all branches of the U.S. military. U.S. Air Force Day focuses specifically on the history, innovation, and service of the Air Force.

17 September - Indira Ekadashi

 

Indira Ekadashi is an important day in the Hindu calendar, observed on the 11th day (Ekadashi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) during the Hindu month of Ashwin (September-October). It is one of the many Ekadashi days dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and it is particularly significant for those who want to honor and pray for the souls of their ancestors (Pitrs).

The observance of Indira Ekadashi is believed to help in achieving moksha (liberation) for the departed souls of one's ancestors. Devotees fast on this day and perform special rituals, including Tarpan (offering water) and Pind Daan (ritual offerings), to seek forgiveness for the sins of their ancestors and ensure their souls rest in peace. The fast is observed with strict discipline, including abstaining from grains and certain foods, and it is believed that observing this Ekadashi can also bring spiritual benefits to the person performing the fast.

Indira Ekadashi usually falls during the Pitru Paksha period, a time dedicated to honoring ancestors, which adds to its significance.

15 September - John Bull operated for the first time in 1831

 

John Bull is a historic British-built steam locomotive that played a significant role in the early development of railroads in the United States. It was originally built by Robert Stephenson and Company in England and imported to the U.S. by the Camden and Amboy Railroad, where it was first operated on 15 September 1831.

This locomotive is notable not only for its role in the expansion of rail transport in the U.S. but also for being one of the oldest surviving steam locomotives. It was named "John Bull" after a traditional symbol of Britain, and it helped to connect Philadelphia and New York City, making long-distance travel more practical and efficient at the time.

Key Points about John Bull:

• The John Bull is currently preserved at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., where it remains an important artifact of early American rail history.
• In 1981, the locomotive was operated once again to celebrate its 150th anniversary, making it one of the oldest locomotives to be operated under its own steam.
• It was a pioneering model that demonstrated the potential of railroads as a transformative mode of transportation in the rapidly industrializing U.S. during the 19th century.

John Bull's legacy continues as a symbol of the industrial age and the early stages of rail infrastructure in America.

15 September - The 2000 Summer Olympics, officially the Games of the XXVII Olympiad started

 

The 2000 Summer Olympics, officially the Games of the XXVII Olympiad and branded as Sydney 2000, were held from 15 September to 1 October 2000 in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. These games are often remembered as one of the most successful and well-organized in Olympic history.

Key highlights of the Sydney 2000 Olympics include:

• Cathy Freeman's Victory: Australian sprinter Cathy Freeman, who lit the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, won the gold medal in the women’s 400 meters, making her an iconic figure in Olympic history and a symbol of reconciliation with Indigenous Australians.

• Michael Phelps' Debut: Although Michael Phelps didn't win a medal at Sydney 2000, it marked his Olympic debut, foreshadowing his future as the most decorated Olympian of all time.

• Athletes and Records: The games featured 10,651 athletes from 199 countries competing in 300 events across 28 sports. Numerous world and Olympic records were set during these games.

• Environmental Sustainability: Sydney 2000 is known as the "Green Games" due to its emphasis on environmental sustainability. The Olympic venues were designed with eco-friendly practices, and renewable energy sources were heavily promoted.

• Host City Legacy: Sydney's successful hosting of the Olympics left a lasting legacy for the city, particularly in terms of infrastructure, sports facilities, and international reputation.

The Sydney 2000 Olympics are celebrated for their spirit of inclusion, memorable sporting achievements, and lasting impact on both Australia and the Olympic movement.

12 September - World Dolphin Day

 

World Dolphin Day is a dedicated awareness event aimed at promoting the conservation of dolphins and addressing the numerous threats they face. Here are key details about the day and its significance:

1. Purpose: World Dolphin Day highlights the need for protecting dolphins from environmental hazards, illegal hunting, and captivity. Dolphins, as highly intelligent marine mammals, are key indicators of ocean health. Their protection also reflects the overall well-being of marine ecosystems.

2. Threats to Dolphins:

   • Bycatch: One of the greatest dangers dolphins face is being accidentally caught in fishing nets, particularly in tuna fisheries. This often results in injury or death.
   • Pollution: Ocean pollution, including plastic waste, chemical contaminants, and oil spills, poses significant risks to dolphins.
   • Hunting and Captivity: In some regions, dolphins are still hunted for meat or captured for entertainment purposes in marine parks. Awareness campaigns during World Dolphin Day often target these practices, advocating for ethical treatment and conservation.

3. Conservation Efforts:

   • Many organizations, such as the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), work to protect dolphins through legislation, habitat protection, and by encouraging sustainable fishing practices.
   • The Marine Mammal Protection Act in the U.S. also plays a significant role in safeguarding dolphins from commercial harm.

4. Educational Events and Activism: On World Dolphin Day, many environmental organizations host events, such as beach cleanups, educational seminars, and activism campaigns, to promote ocean health and dolphin conservation.

5. Drive Hunts Awareness: A particular focus is on the drive hunts of dolphins in places like Taiji, Japan, which involve the capture and killing of dolphins for meat or sale to aquariums. Documentaries like The Cove have raised global awareness about these practices, which are often spotlighted on World Dolphin Day.

By observing World Dolphin Day, people are encouraged to advocate for dolphins' rights, support marine conservation efforts, and take personal steps to reduce pollution and harmful activities that affect these creatures.