12 July - Panshet floods: A day that changed Pune in 1961

Image of Damodhar Dam for reference

This fateful day will remain forever etched in Pune’s history. A day that changed the history and geography of this great city. Call it a bad coincidence – but two events that happened almost exactly 200 years apart have played a critical role in Pune’s history – to the extent that they have been added to the local Marathi lexicon.  The first one was the 3rd Battle of Panipat in 1761 and the second one: the Panshet flood. “पानिपत झालं” (Panipat zala) and “पानशेत झालं” (Panshet zala) are commonly used terms today to refer to a big disaster.

Half a century ago, the new under-construction Panshet dam had started developing some problems, even before it was complete. Against some recommendations, the dam was being filled up during the 1961 monsoon season. Cracks started developing and yet there was lot of debate on whether the dam was in real imminent danger. 

A valiant last-ditch effort by the Army Jawans managed to delay the inevitable by a few hours. These few hours helped a lot. If not for this great effort, where thousands of sand bags were deployed, the dam would have burst in the middle of the night, creating havoc for the sleeping residents of Pune. The few hours delay meant that the burst happened early morning and the wall of flood waters reached Pune later in the morning. The deluge of flood waters of Panshet also broke the smaller Khadakwasla dam, further downstream. An estimated 1,000 people died from the resulting flood

Panshet Dam, also called Tanajisagar Dam, is a dam on the Ambi river about 50 km (31 mi) southwest of the city of Pune in western India. The dam was constructed in late 1950s for irrigation and, along with three other dams nearby, Varasgaon, Temghar and Khadakwasla, it supplies drinking water to Pune.

11 July - Alexander Prokhorov birth anniversary

 

Alexander Prokhorov, full name Alexander Mikhailovich Prokhorov, was a prominent Russian physicist and Nobel laureate. He was born on 11 July 1916, in Atherton, Australia, to Russian parents who were on a temporary visit to Australia at the time.

Prokhorov is best known for his contributions to the field of quantum electronics and laser technology. He played a pivotal role in the development of the maser (microwave amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) and later contributed to the development of lasers (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation).

In 1952, while working at the Lebedev Physical Institute in Moscow, Prokhorov and his colleagues Nikolay Basov and Charles Townes independently proposed the principle of the maser. Their work laid the foundation for the development of devices that could produce and amplify coherent microwaves. For their groundbreaking research, Prokhorov, Basov, and Townes were jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1964.

Prokhorov continued his research on lasers and contributed to advancements in laser technology. He worked on the development of solid-state lasers and made significant contributions to the understanding of laser physics and the application of lasers in various fields.

In addition to his scientific achievements, Prokhorov was actively involved in scientific and educational institutions. He held various academic and administrative positions, including serving as the director of the General Physics Institute in Moscow. He was also a member of the Russian Academy of Sciences and received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science.

Alexander Prokhorov passed away on 08 January 2002, in Moscow, Russia. His work in quantum electronics and laser technology had a profound impact on the field of physics and paved the way for numerous technological advancements in various industries. His contributions continue to be celebrated and recognized as significant milestones in the history of science.

11 July - Charlotte Cooper became the first-ever female Olympic champion in tennis

 

Charlotte Cooper, a British tennis player, won the tennis singles event on July 11th in two years. Here are two notable instances:

1. July 11, 1895: Charlotte Cooper became the first-ever female Olympic champion in tennis. She won the women's singles event at the 1896 Summer Olympics held in Athens, Greece, defeating Hélène Prévost of France in the final.

2. July 11, 1901: Charlotte Cooper won her fifth and final Wimbledon title on this day. She emerged victorious in the women's singles event at the Wimbledon Championships, held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. She defeated Blanche Bingley Hillyard in the final, securing her place in history as the first female five-time Wimbledon champion.

Charlotte Cooper's accomplishments as a tennis player were notable, particularly during a time when women's tennis was still developing as a sport. She left a lasting legacy and contributed to the growth and recognition of women's tennis through her achievements on the court.

 

11 July - The Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302

 

The Battle of the Golden Spurs, also known as the Battle of Courtrai, took place on July 11, 1302, near the town of Kortrijk (Courtrai) in present-day Belgium. It was a significant event in the conflict between the forces of the County of Flanders and the Kingdom of France during the Hundred Years' War.

During this period, Flanders was a prosperous region known for its textile industry, and its citizens had gained considerable wealth and independence. However, the French monarchy sought to exert control over Flanders, leading to tensions and a series of revolts by the Flemish against French domination.

In 1302, a French army led by Robert II, Count of Artois, invaded Flanders to suppress the rebellion. The Flemish, led by their military leader William of Jülich, formed an alliance with the city militias and prepared to defend their land. The two forces met on the battlefield near the town of Kortrijk.

The Flemish army had taken advantage of the marshy terrain to construct a defensive position, consisting of a series of ditches and palisades. They also had a substantial number of foot soldiers armed with long pikes, which played a crucial role in the upcoming battle.

As the French knights charged towards the Flemish position, they found it difficult to penetrate the defensive lines. The marshy ground slowed their advance, and the Flemish infantry used their long pikes to devastating effect against the heavily armored knights. The French cavalry became bogged down and disorganized, and the Flemish took advantage of the situation.

In a pivotal moment of the battle, the Flemish infantry managed to capture and kill many French knights. The Flemish fighters, recognizing the significance of their victory, started plucking golden spurs from the fallen French knights as a trophy. Hence, the battle came to be known as the Battle of the Golden Spurs.

The French forces suffered heavy losses, and their defeat at the hands of the Flemish was a significant blow to their prestige. The Battle of the Golden Spurs became a symbol of Flemish resistance against French aggression and a source of pride for the people of Flanders.

The battle did not mark the end of the conflict, as the war between Flanders and France continued for several more years. However, it represented a turning point in the struggle, demonstrating that a well-prepared and determined infantry force could overcome the might of heavily armored knights.

Today, the Battle of the Golden Spurs is considered a significant event in Flemish history and is celebrated as a symbol of Flemish identity and resistance. It remains an important part of the cultural heritage of Belgium.

 

10 July - Independence Day Bahamas

 

Independence Day in the Bahamas is a significant national holiday that commemorates the country's independence from British colonial rule. The Bahamas gained its independence on July 10, 1973, ending more than 300 years of British control.

On Independence Day, which is a public holiday, Bahamians celebrate their nation's sovereignty and reflect on their history and cultural heritage. The day is marked by various festivities, including parades, cultural performances, fireworks displays, and flag-raising ceremonies.

The main celebration takes place in the capital city of Nassau, where thousands of people gather to witness the colorful parades featuring marching bands, dance groups, and floats representing different aspects of Bahamian culture. The streets are adorned with the Bahamian national flag and vibrant decorations, creating a festive atmosphere.

During the celebrations, Bahamians proudly showcase their national pride and identity, wearing traditional clothing and participating in cultural activities such as Junkanoo, a lively street parade characterized by vibrant costumes, music, and dancing. Junkanoo is deeply rooted in Bahamian history and is considered a symbol of the country's cultural heritage.

Independence Day is also a time for political leaders to address the nation and reflect on the progress made since gaining independence. It is an occasion to honor Bahamian heroes, recognize achievements, and emphasize the importance of unity, patriotism, and national development.

 

10 July - The Vellore Rebellion of 1806

 

The Vellore Rebellion of 1806 was a significant uprising against British colonial rule that took place in Vellore, a town in present-day Tamil Nadu, India. It is considered one of the earliest and most notable instances of a large-scale revolt against British authority in South India.

The rebellion was sparked by several factors, including grievances among the Indian soldiers (sepoys) serving in the British East India Company's army. One of the main catalysts was the introduction of new uniforms and headgear, which were perceived as a disregard for the religious and cultural sensibilities of the sepoys, who were predominantly Muslims.

On the night of July 10, 1806, a group of sepoys at the Vellore Fort, led by a few high-ranking officers, launched a surprise attack against the British garrison stationed there. The rebels managed to overpower and kill many British officers and soldiers, taking control of the fort. They also freed prisoners, including some political prisoners.

However, the rebellion was short-lived. British reinforcements were quickly dispatched from nearby Madras (now Chennai), and within a few hours, the revolt was quelled. The British forces recaptured the fort, and the leaders of the rebellion were either killed or captured.

Following the suppression of the rebellion, the British authorities conducted a series of investigations and implemented measures to prevent future uprisings. They undertook reforms in the army, including the discontinuation of practices that offended Indian cultural and religious sentiments.

The Vellore Rebellion had a lasting impact on the relationship between the Indian soldiers and the British colonial administration. It highlighted the growing discontent and resentment among Indian troops towards British rule. The event also served as a catalyst for subsequent uprisings and played a role in shaping the Indian independence movement in the years to come.

Overall, the Vellore Rebellion of 1806 stands as a significant moment in the history of British colonialism in India, reflecting the resistance and aspirations of the Indian people against foreign rule.

 

10 July - National Kitten Day

 

National Kitten Day is an unofficial holiday celebrated on July 10th each year to honor and appreciate kittens, particularly domesticated young cats. It's a day dedicated to recognizing the joy, cuteness, and companionship that kittens bring to our lives.

On National Kitten Day, people celebrate in various ways to show their love for kittens. Some activities that people might engage in include:

1. Adopting a Kitten: National Kitten Day is an excellent opportunity to consider adopting a kitten from a local animal shelter or rescue organization. By providing a loving home to a kitten in need, you can make a significant difference in its life.

2. Fostering Kittens: If adopting a kitten permanently is not feasible, fostering kittens can be a rewarding option. Fostering involves providing temporary care and love to kittens until they find their forever homes.

3. Sharing Kitten Photos: Social media platforms often see an influx of adorable kitten photos and videos on National Kitten Day. People enjoy sharing pictures of their own kittens or sharing heartwarming stories about kittens they have encountered.

4. Supporting Animal Welfare Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering at local animal shelters or rescue organizations that work tirelessly to care for and protect kittens and other animals in need.

5. Hosting Kitten-themed Events: Some individuals and organizations may organize special events or fundraisers on National Kitten Day to raise awareness about kitten adoption, proper kitten care, and the importance of spaying/neutering to prevent overpopulation.

6. Educating Others: Take the opportunity to educate others about responsible pet ownership, the importance of vaccinations and regular veterinary care for kittens, and how to create a safe and stimulating environment for their furry companions.

National Kitten Day serves as a reminder to appreciate the innocence, playfulness, and companionship that kittens bring into our lives. It's a day to celebrate these adorable creatures and promote their welfare, while also raising awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership.

 

10 July - National Fish Farmers Day

 

National Fish Farmers Day in India is celebrated on July 10th every year to recognize the contributions of fish farmers to the country's aquaculture sector. It aims to promote and raise awareness about the importance of fish farming in India's economy, food security, and rural development.

India is one of the world's leading producers of fish, and fish farming plays a crucial role in meeting the country's growing demand for fish protein. National Fish Farmers Day provides an opportunity to honor and acknowledge the efforts of fish farmers who contribute significantly to the nation's fisheries sector.

On this day, various events and programs are organized across the country to highlight the achievements and challenges faced by fish farmers. Government agencies, agricultural institutions, and organizations related to fisheries and aquaculture collaborate to conduct seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and interactive sessions.

During these events, fish farmers are recognized for their innovations, best practices, and technological advancements in fish farming. They are also provided with information on new techniques, government schemes, and support available to improve their productivity and income.

National Fish Farmers Day serves as a platform to share knowledge, exchange experiences, and foster collaboration among fish farmers, researchers, policymakers, and other stakeholders. It helps in promoting sustainable fish farming practices, improving fish production, and addressing the challenges faced by the sector.

Additionally, the day also aims to create awareness among the general public about the importance of consuming fish as a nutritious food source and its role in the overall development of rural communities.

Overall, National Fish Farmers Day celebrates the achievements of fish farmers in India and encourages the growth and sustainability of the country's aquaculture sector.

 

10 July - The city of Dublin in Ireland was founded by Viking raiders in 988

 

The precise date of Dublin's founding is believed to have occurred in 988. Viking raiders, often referred to as Norsemen or Vikings, arrived in the area and established a settlement that eventually grew into the city of Dublin.

The Vikings chose Dublin as a strategic location due to its favorable geographic position and access to trade routes. The settlement grew in importance as a trading hub, attracting merchants from around Europe. Over time, Dublin developed into a thriving city and became the political, economic, and cultural center of Ireland.

Dublin's Viking heritage is still evident in the city today, with archaeological remains and historical sites showcasing its Viking roots.

 

10 July - Nikola Tesla Day

 

Nikola Tesla Day is an unofficial observance that commemorates the achievements and contributions of Nikola Tesla, a renowned inventor, electrical engineer, and physicist. While there is no universally recognized or official Nikola Tesla Day, various organizations and individuals have chosen different dates to honor his legacy.

Nikola Tesla, born on July 10, 1856, was a Serbian-American scientist known for his groundbreaking work in the field of electricity and magnetism. He played a crucial role in the development of alternating current (AC) power systems, which revolutionized the transmission and distribution of electricity.

Tesla's inventions and ideas were ahead of his time and had a profound impact on various technological advancements. Some of his notable contributions include the invention of the Tesla coil, the induction motor, wireless power transmission, and numerous other electrical and mechanical devices.

To honor Tesla's achievements, enthusiasts and organizations around the world have designated July 10th, his birth date, as Nikola Tesla Day. On this day, people celebrate his brilliance, inventive spirit, and contributions to science and technology. Activities may include lectures, exhibitions, demonstrations, and other events that highlight Tesla's life and work.