23 June - Francisco de Almeida birth anniversary

 

Francisco de Almeida was born on 23 June 1450, in Lisbon, Portugal. He died on 01 March 1510, in the Arabian Sea.

Francisco de Almeida was a Portuguese nobleman and military officer who played a significant role in the early years of Portuguese maritime expansion in the Indian Ocean. He served as the first Viceroy of Portuguese India from 1505 to 1509. His tenure marked a crucial period in the establishment of Portuguese influence in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf region.

Almeida was appointed by King Manuel I of Portugal to safeguard Portuguese interests in the East and to establish control over the lucrative spice trade routes. Under his leadership, the Portuguese established fortified trading posts along the coasts of East Africa, the Persian Gulf, and the Indian subcontinent.

One of Almeida's notable achievements was the victory at the Battle of Diu in 1509, where the Portuguese fleet, under his command, defeated a joint Mamluk and Ottoman fleet. This victory secured Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean for some time.

However, Almeida's term as Viceroy was not without controversy. His strict and sometimes harsh rule, as well as conflicts with local rulers, led to tensions. In 1509, he was succeeded by Afonso de Albuquerque, another prominent Portuguese explorer and military commander.

Despite his accomplishments, Francisco de Almeida faced personal tragedy. His son, Lourenço de Almeida, died during an expedition in the Arabian Sea. Francisco himself was killed in 1510 in a political dispute in the aftermath of his vice royalty. Despite his relatively short term, Almeida's contributions laid the groundwork for further Portuguese expansion and influence in the Indian Ocean region.

 

23 June - Okinawa Memorial Day

Okinawa Memorial Day, observed annually on June 23, commemorates the end of the Battle of Okinawa during World War II. This day is significant for reflecting on the lives lost and the impact of the war on Okinawa. Here are some key aspects of the day:

Historical Background

• Battle of Okinawa: One of the bloodiest battles in the Pacific during World War II, taking place from April to June 1945. It resulted in massive casualties, including civilians, Japanese soldiers, and Allied forces.
• End of Battle: The battle officially ended on June 23, 1945, with the Japanese forces' surrender. This date is now marked as a day of remembrance.

Commemorative Activities

• Ceremonies and Events: Memorial services are held at various monuments and memorial parks, including the Peace Memorial Park in Itoman. These events often include prayers, offerings, and speeches by officials.
• Moment of Silence: At noon, a moment of silence is observed across Okinawa to honor those who lost their lives during the battle.
• Educational Programs: Schools and community organizations hold educational programs to teach younger generations about the history and significance of the Battle of Okinawa and the importance of peace.

Significance

• Remembrance: The day serves to remember the immense suffering and loss experienced during the battle. It emphasizes the importance of peace and reconciliation.
• Peace Advocacy: Okinawa Memorial Day is a time for advocating peace and reflecting on the consequences of war. It is a reminder of the need for dialogue and understanding to prevent future conflicts.

Modern Observance

• Government Involvement: Both local and national government officials participate in ceremonies, highlighting the significance of the day in the broader context of Japan's post-war history.
• Cultural Reflections: Art, literature, and media often feature stories and reflections related to the Battle of Okinawa, contributing to the collective memory and cultural identity of the region.

Okinawa Memorial Day is a poignant reminder of the past and a call to work towards a peaceful future, honoring the memory of those who suffered and died in the conflict.

23 June - Sri Prakash death anniversary

 

Sri Prakash, passed away on 23 June 1971, was an Indian politician, freedom-fighter and administrator. He served as India's first High Commissioner to Pakistan from 1947 to 1949, Governor of Assam from 1949 to 1950, Governor of Madras from 1952 to 1956 and Governor of Bombay from 1956 to 1962.

Sri Prakas was born in Varanasi in 1890. In his early days, he participated in the Indian independence movement and was jailed. After India's independence, he served as an administrator and cabinet minister. Sri Prakasa died in 1971 at the age of 80.

23 June - International Women in Engineering Day

 

International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) is an annual global event celebrated on June 23rd to recognize and raise awareness about the achievements of women in engineering fields. It aims to inspire and encourage more women to pursue careers in engineering, address the gender gap in the industry, and promote diversity and inclusivity within the engineering profession.

INWED was first established in 2014 by the Women's Engineering Society (WES) in the United Kingdom and has since grown into an international movement celebrated in numerous countries around the world. The day provides a platform to showcase the accomplishments of women engineers, highlight their contributions to various engineering disciplines, and encourage young girls and women to consider engineering as a viable and fulfilling career path.

During International Women in Engineering Day, organizations, universities, professional societies, and engineering institutions host a wide range of events and activities to celebrate and promote women in engineering.

International Women in Engineering Day serves as a global platform to celebrate the achievements of women in engineering, challenge stereotypes, and promote diversity and equality in the field. By showcasing the diverse talents and accomplishments of women engineers, the day aims to inspire future generations and create a more inclusive and balanced engineering workforce.

 

23 June - Pink Flamingo Day

 

Pink Flamingo Day is a celebration dedicated to the iconic and flamboyant bird, the pink flamingo. It is observed on June 23rd each year, giving people the opportunity to appreciate and learn more about these fascinating creatures.

Flamingos are known for their vibrant pink plumage, long slender necks, and distinctive curved beaks. They inhabit various regions around the world, including Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Flamingos often gather in large colonies, creating a breathtaking sight with their colorful presence.

Pink Flamingo Day is a lighthearted and fun-filled occasion that encourages people to embrace the spirit of these magnificent birds. 

Pink Flamingo Day is all about embracing the joy, beauty, and uniqueness that flamingos represent. It's a day to appreciate their vibrant presence in nature and to raise awareness about their conservation needs. 

22 June - Eruvaka Pournami 2024

 

Eruvaka Pournami, also known as Eruvaka Poornima or Jyestha Purnima, is a traditional agricultural festival celebrated predominantly in the southern Indian states, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This festival marks the onset of the monsoon season and is dedicated to the worship of Lord Indra, the god of rain, seeking his blessings for a bountiful harvest.

Key Aspects of Eruvaka Pournami:

1. Date of Celebration:

   • Eruvaka Pournami is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Jyestha, which usually falls in May or June.

2. Agricultural Significance:

   • The festival signifies the beginning of the agricultural cycle, as farmers prepare their fields for the upcoming Kharif (monsoon) cropping season.
   • It is a time for plowing fields, sowing seeds, and performing rituals to ensure a good harvest.

3. Rituals and Traditions:

   • Farmers perform special pujas (prayers) to invoke the blessings of Lord Indra and other deities for timely rains and fertile soil.
   • The agricultural tools and plows are cleaned, decorated with flowers, and worshipped.
   • Traditional songs and dances are performed to celebrate the joy of the impending rains and the hope for a prosperous season.

4. Community Activities:

   • Villagers gather to participate in community feasts and cultural programs.
   • Competitions such as bullock cart races and other rural sports are organized to mark the occasion.
   • It is also a time for social bonding, with families and communities coming together to celebrate the festival.

5. Cultural and Social Impact:

   • Eruvaka Pournami fosters a sense of unity and cooperation among the farming communities.
   • The festival highlights the deep connection between agriculture and the cultural life of rural India.

Celebration in Modern Times:

While the essence of Eruvaka Pournami remains rooted in agricultural practices, modern celebrations have adapted to include more contemporary elements. Farmers now often use this day to share knowledge about sustainable farming practices and new agricultural technologies. Despite the changes, the core spirit of gratitude and reverence for nature's bounty continues to be the heart of the festival.

Reflection:

Eruvaka Pournami is a testament to the vital role agriculture plays in the lives of rural communities. It is a time to honor the earth, celebrate the rains, and express hope for a fruitful harvest. The festival underscores the interdependence between humans and nature and the collective joy and resilience of farming communities.

 

22 June - Sant Kabir Jayanti 2024

 

Sant Kabir Jayanti is a significant religious festival celebrated in honor of the birth anniversary of Sant Kabir Das, a renowned 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint. He is widely revered for his devotion to spirituality and his profound teachings that emphasized the importance of a personal god, transcending religious boundaries, and promoting unity and harmony.

Key Aspects of Sant Kabir Jayanti:

1. Date of Celebration:

   • Sant Kabir Jayanti is observed on the full moon day (Purnima) in the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, which typically falls in May or June.

2. Historical Significance:

   • Sant Kabir Das was born in 1440 in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. He is considered one of the greatest saints of the Bhakti movement and is known for his simple yet profound couplets called 'Kabir Ke Dohe.'

3. Teachings and Philosophy:

   • Kabir's teachings focus on the omnipresence of God and the futility of ritualistic practices. He preached the unity of all religions and advocated for a direct connection with the divine through devotion and personal experience.
   • His verses emphasize love, equality, and moral conduct, challenging the orthodoxy and societal norms of his time.

4. Celebration Activities:

   • Devotees gather to sing Kabir's bhajans (devotional songs) and recite his dohas (couplets).
   • Special satsangs (spiritual discourses) and kirtans (devotional singing) are organized in Kabir temples and ashrams.
   • People engage in community services and distribute food and clothes to the needy as a mark of respect and devotion.

5. Cultural Impact:

   • Kabir's work has had a lasting impact on Indian culture and literature, influencing various poets and spiritual leaders.
   • His inclusive philosophy resonates with people across different religions, promoting a message of universal brotherhood and love.

Reflection:

Sant Kabir Jayanti is not just a day of religious observance but a reminder of the timeless values of love, compassion, and unity that Sant Kabir Das espoused. His teachings continue to inspire millions, encouraging a life of simplicity, devotion, and moral integrity.

22 June - Nilmoni Phukan birth anniversary

 

 Nilmoni Phukan was born on 22 June 1880 at Dibrugarh district, Assam. was an Assamese writer, poet, freedom fighter and politician popularly known as Bagmibor in the Assamese literature.Since he shares his name with another Assamese poet, Nilmani Phukan, he is often referred as Nilmoni Phukan (Senior). Phukan was the president of the Asam Sahitya Sabha for two times; in 1944 held at Sivasagar district and in 1947 held at Dibrugarh district of Assam.

22 June - Surya Narayan Vyas death anniversary

 

Surya Narayan Vyas, passed away on 22 June 1976, was an Indian astrologer and diviner from Ujjain, in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. He was known to be the one who prescribed 14 August 1947 and 15 August 1947 as the dates for Pakistan and Indian independence respectively. He is reported to have prophesied several other incidents such as the deaths of Lal Bahadur Shastri and Sardar Vallabhai Patel and the emergence of India as a global power in the 21st century. He was a member of the Advisory Board to the Government of Madhya Pradesh during the tenure of Govind Narayan Singh from 1967–1969. The Government of India awarded him the third highest civilian honour of the Padma Bhushan, in 1958, for his contributions to astrology.

22 June - King George V crowned King in 1911

 

On 22 June 1911, King George V crowned King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, Canada, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and all his realms and territories beyond the sea.

George V was King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, and Emperor of India, from 6 May 1910 until his death in 1936. Born during the reign of his grandmother Queen Victoria, George was third in the line of succession behind his father, Prince Albert Edward, and his own elder brother, Prince Albert Victor