08 December - Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day commemorates the day when Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

The story goes that Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha, spent several years in deep meditation and spiritual practice. On the night of his enlightenment, he resolved to meditate until he reached the ultimate understanding and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. As the morning star appeared in the sky, Siddhartha Gautama finally attained enlightenment and became the Buddha, the "Awakened One."

Bodhi Day is an occasion for Buddhists to reflect on their own paths to enlightenment, practice meditation, and engage in acts of kindness and generosity. It is a time for deep introspection and a renewed commitment to the core principles of Buddhism, such as the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.

Observances on Bodhi Day may include meditation sessions, teachings, chanting, and acts of charity. Individuals may also decorate Bodhi trees with lights and ornaments as a symbolic representation of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

07 December - International Civil Aviation Day

 

International Civil Aviation Day is observed annually on December 7. This day is designated by the United Nations to raise awareness of the importance of international civil aviation and the role it plays in the social and economic development of countries around the world. The day also commemorates the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, also known as the Chicago Convention, on December 7, 1944.

The Chicago Convention established the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for coordinating and regulating international air travel. ICAO works with its member states and various stakeholders to develop and maintain international standards and practices for aviation safety, security, efficiency, and environmental protection.

International Civil Aviation Day provides an opportunity to highlight the achievements and contributions of civil aviation to global connectivity, trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to address challenges and promote sustainable and safe international air travel. Each year, ICAO and its member states organize events, conferences, and activities to mark this observance and engage the public, aviation professionals, and policymakers in discussions related to civil aviation.

07 December - National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day in USA

 

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is observed annually in the United States on 07 December . This day commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor, a naval base near Honolulu, Hawaii, by the Imperial Japanese Navy on 07 December 1941. The attack marked the United States' entry into World War II.

Key points about National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day:

1. Historical Significance: On the morning of December 7, 1941, Japanese aircraft launched a surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor. The attack resulted in significant damage to the fleet, including the sinking or damaging of numerous ships and the loss of hundreds of aircraft. More than 2,400 Americans were killed, and over 1,100 were wounded.

2. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's Speech: The day after the attack, on December 8, 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt addressed the U.S. Congress, famously declaring it a "date which will live in infamy." The United States subsequently declared war on Japan, officially entering World War II.

3. Observance: National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is observed with ceremonies, memorial services, and other events across the country. The flag of the United States is flown at half-staff on government buildings, and a moment of silence is often observed at 7:55 a.m., the time when the attack began.

4. Pearl Harbor National Memorial: The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, located at the site of the attack in Hawaii, includes the USS Arizona Memorial and other historical sites. It serves as a place of remembrance and education about the events of December 7, 1941.

5. Honoring Veterans: The day is an occasion to honor the veterans who served during World War II and pay tribute to the resilience and sacrifice of those who defended the nation in the aftermath of the attack.

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is a solemn occasion to reflect on the impact of the Pearl Harbor attack and the broader historical context of World War II. It serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and honoring those who have served in the defense of the nation.

 

07 December - Armed Forces Flag Day

 

Armed Forces Flag Day is observed in India on December 7th every year. It is a day dedicated to honoring the sacrifices and contributions of the armed forces personnel, as well as raising awareness about their welfare needs. On this day, the Armed Forces Flag is distributed across the country, and people are encouraged to contribute to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).

Key points about Armed Forces Flag Day:

1. Fundraising: The primary purpose of Armed Forces Flag Day is to collect funds for the welfare of the armed forces personnel, including ex-servicemen and their dependents. The funds are utilized for various initiatives, such as education, rehabilitation, and medical aid.

2. Armed Forces Flag: The Armed Forces Flag, a symbol of solidarity with the armed forces, is distributed on this day. Citizens are encouraged to wear and display the flag as a mark of respect and support for the armed forces.

3. Events and Campaigns: On Armed Forces Flag Day, various events and campaigns are organized across the country to raise awareness about the sacrifices made by the armed forces and to encourage contributions to the fund. Schools, colleges, government offices, and other institutions participate in these activities.

4. Welfare Initiatives: The funds collected through the Armed Forces Flag Day are utilized for the welfare of armed forces personnel, including the provision of financial assistance, rehabilitation programs, and support for the families of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

5. History: Armed Forces Flag Day was first observed in India on December 7, 1949. The idea was conceived by a group of citizens, and the day was later officially recognized by the government as a way to express solidarity with the armed forces.

Armed Forces Flag Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces to safeguard the nation and provides an opportunity for citizens to contribute to their welfare.

 

07 December - Pramukh Swami Maharaj birth anniversary

 

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, whose birth name was Shantilal Patel, was a prominent spiritual leader and the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a major sect within the Swaminarayan tradition of Hinduism. He played a crucial role in the growth and global expansion of the BAPS organization.

Key points about Pramukh Swami Maharaj:

1. Birth and Early Life: Pramukh Swami Maharaj was born on 07 December 1921, in the village of Chansad, near Vadodara in Gujarat, India.

2. Spiritual Journey: At the age of 18, Shantilal Patel renounced worldly life and became a sadhu (monk) in the Swaminarayan tradition, taking the name Narayanswarupdas Swami.

3. Leadership in BAPS: Pramukh Swami Maharaj became the spiritual head (Pramukh) of BAPS in 1971 after the passing of his predecessor, Yogiji Maharaj. Under his leadership, BAPS experienced significant growth and undertook numerous philanthropic and cultural activities.

4. Temple Construction: Pramukh Swami Maharaj was instrumental in the construction of the Akshardham temples in Gandhinagar and Delhi, which are grand complexes dedicated to the worship of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and showcase Indian art, culture, and spirituality.

5. Global Expansion: He played a key role in expanding the activities of BAPS globally, establishing temples and cultural centers in various countries. BAPS became known for its emphasis on spirituality, education, and humanitarian efforts.

6. Interfaith Dialogue: Pramukh Swami Maharaj was involved in interfaith dialogue and worked towards fostering understanding and harmony among different religious communities.

7. Renunciation of Violence: He actively promoted principles of non-violence, peace, and morality. During times of communal tension in Gujarat, he urged for unity and harmony.

8. Death: Pramukh Swami Maharaj passed away on 13 August , 2016, at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham complex in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. His death marked the end of an era in the leadership of BAPS.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj is remembered for his spiritual teachings, leadership, and contributions to the growth of the Swaminarayan tradition globally. His followers consider him a revered saint and spiritual guide.

 

07 December - Spitak earthquake Armenia 1988

 The 1988 Armenian earthquake, also known as the Spitak earthquake, occurred on December 7 at 11:41 local time with a surface wave magnitude of 6.8 and a maximum MSK intensity of X (Devastating). The shock occurred in the northern region of Armenia (then Armenian SSR, as part of the Soviet Union) which is vulnerable to large and destructive earthquakes and is part of a larger active seismic belt that stretches from the Alps to the Himalayas. Activity in the area is associated with tectonic plate boundary interaction and the source of the event was slip on a thrust fault just to the north of Spitak. The complex incident ruptured multiple faults, with a strike-slip event occurring shortly after the initiation of the mainshock. Between 25,000 and 50,000 were killed and up to 130,000 were injured

07 December - National Defence Academy established in 1954

 

The National Defence Academy (NDA) is the joint defence service training institute of the Indian Armed Forces, where cadets of the three services i.e. the Indian Army, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force train together before they go on to respective service academy for further pre-commission training. The NDA is located in Khadakwasla, Pune, Maharashtra. It is the first tri-service academy in the world.It was Established on 7 December 1954

The alumni of NDA include 3 Param Vir Chakra recipients and 12 Ashoka Chakra recipients. NDA has also produced 27 service Chiefs of Staff till date. The current Chiefs of Staff of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force are all NDA alumni from the same course.The 137th course graduated on 30 November 2019, consisting of 188 Army cadets, 38 Naval cadets, 37 Air Force cadets and 20 cadets from friendly foreign countries.The Supreme Court of India passed an order in August 2021 that allowed female candidates to appear for the all upcoming NDA entrance examination.

06 December - South Africa grants independence to Bophuthatswana in 1972

 

Bophuthatswana was one of several so-called "homelands" established by the apartheid government of South Africa. It was granted self-governance in 1972 but was not recognized internationally as an independent state.

Bophuthatswana remained part of the apartheid system until the end of apartheid in the early 1990s. With the end of apartheid and the transition to majority rule, Bophuthatswana was reintegrated into South Africa. The dissolution of Bophuthatswana took place in 1994 when the new democratic government of South Africa abolished the system of Bantustans. South Africa held its first fully inclusive democratic elections in 1994, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era in the country's history.

 

06 December - The Irish Free State became an independent member of the British Commonwealth

 

The Irish Free State (now known as Ireland) formally became an independent member of the British Commonwealth on December 6, 1922. The Anglo-Irish Treaty, which was signed on December 6, 1921, paved the way for the establishment of the Irish Free State as a self-governing dominion within the British Commonwealth. The treaty came into effect on December 6, 1922, marking the official establishment of the Irish Free State as a sovereign nation. The relationship between Ireland and the British Commonwealth evolved over time, and Ireland ultimately left the Commonwealth and became a republic in 1949.

06 December - Christopher Columbus first arrived at the island of Hispaniola

 

Christopher Columbus first arrived at the island of Hispaniola on  06 December 1492, during his first voyage to the Americas. The exact date may vary slightly in different historical accounts due to differences between the Julian calendar, which was in use at the time, and the Gregorian calendar, which is now the standard calendar.

Hispaniola is an island in the Caribbean that is divided into two countries: the Dominican Republic to the east and Haiti to the west. Columbus's landing on Hispaniola marked a significant moment in the Age of Exploration, as it was one of the first encounters between the Old World and the New World during Columbus's voyages sponsored by Spain.