17 October - Mother Teresa awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979

 

Mother Teresa, the renowned Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun and humanitarian, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize on October 17, 1979. She received the Nobel Peace Prize for her selfless and dedicated work in alleviating the suffering of the poor and destitute in Calcutta, India, and for her tireless efforts in promoting peace and humanitarianism. Mother Teresa's lifelong commitment to helping those in need and her dedication to humanitarian causes made her a global symbol of compassion and service, and the Nobel Peace Prize recognition was a testament to her extraordinary contributions to the world.

17 October - National Pasta Day

 

National Pasta Day in the USA is celebrated annually on October 17, a day dedicated to honoring the beloved dish that has become a staple in kitchens across the country. While pasta's origins trace back to Italy, it has been embraced worldwide, particularly in the United States, where it is enjoyed in various forms and flavors. This day is an opportunity to celebrate pasta’s versatility, history, and the joy it brings to countless meals.

From traditional Italian favorites like spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli to creative modern takes like gluten-free or vegetable-based pastas, the dish can be adapted to suit any palate. Whether served in a rich marinara sauce, creamy Alfredo, or a simple olive oil and garlic blend, pasta’s adaptability makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike.

National Pasta Day encourages people to get creative in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and ingredients or indulging in classic dishes. Restaurants across the country often mark the occasion with special offers and dishes, while food lovers celebrate with pasta-themed events and meals. Beyond its delicious appeal, pasta is also valued for its cultural significance, representing family, tradition, and comfort.

 

17 October - Meera Bai Jayanti

 

Meera Bai Jayanti, celebrated annually on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, marks the birth anniversary of the revered 16th-century poet-saint Meera Bai. In 2024, this day will fall on Sunday, 17 October . Meera Bai, known for her unwavering devotion to Lord Krishna, is one of the most beloved figures of the Bhakti movement. Born into a Rajput royal family, her life was marked by her deep spiritual connection with Krishna, whom she regarded as her divine husband. Despite societal and familial pressures, Meera Bai chose the path of devotion, composing heartfelt bhajans that express her profound love and longing for Krishna.

On Meera Bai Jayanti, devotees across India celebrate her legacy by organizing special prayers, kirtans, and gatherings, especially in temples dedicated to Krishna. Her songs, rich with spiritual fervor, are sung to remember her life and teachings. The day is not only a tribute to her contributions to devotional literature but also a celebration of her defiance of social norms in pursuit of spiritual truth. Meera Bai's life continues to inspire countless devotees, and her Jayanti serves as a reminder of the power of faith, love, and devotion in transcending the material world.

17 October - Sarangadhar Das birth anniversary

 

Sarangadhar Das (also spelled Sarangadhar Das) was a notable Indian freedom fighter and social reformer who played a significant role in the struggle for India's independence. Here is a summary of his life and contributions:

Early Life and Background

• Birth: Sarangadhar Das was born on 17 October 1886, in the village of Radhanagar, in the present-day state of Odisha, India.
• Education: He was educated in traditional Indian schools and later in a British-run school, which exposed him to Western ideas and the growing nationalist sentiments.

Contribution to Freedom Movement

• Social Reform: Sarangadhar Das was deeply involved in social reform activities, focusing on improving the conditions of the underprivileged and advocating for social justice.
• Indian National Congress: He was an active member of the Indian National Congress, contributing to the nationalist movement by organizing and participating in various campaigns for India's independence from British rule.
• Swadeshi Movement: Sarangadhar Das was a supporter of the Swadeshi Movement, which promoted the use of Indian-made goods and the boycott of British products as a means of economic resistance against colonial rule.

Political Involvement

• Leadership: He held several leadership positions within the Indian National Congress and was instrumental in organizing grassroots support for the independence movement.
• Public Speaking: Known for his oratory skills, Sarangadhar Das effectively communicated nationalist ideas and mobilized public opinion against British colonial policies.

Legacy and Impact

• Influence: Sarangadhar Das’s efforts in social reform and political activism made a significant impact on the freedom movement in Odisha and beyond. He is remembered for his dedication to both social justice and national independence.
• Recognition: His contributions to India's struggle for independence and his role in the social reform movement are recognized and respected in the history of Indian nationalism.

Sarangadhar Das’s life and work reflect the broader efforts of many Indian leaders who fought for the country's independence and worked towards societal improvement. His legacy continues to be honored as part of India's rich history of freedom struggle and social reform.

17 October - University of Greifswald was founded in 1456

 

The University of Greifswald was founded on October 17, 1456. It's one of the oldest universities in Europe and has a remarkable history of academic and cultural significance.

The University of Greifswald, located in the town of Greifswald in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Here are some key points about the University of Greifswald:

1. History: Established on October 17, 1456, the University of Greifswald is among the oldest universities in Europe, and it has a rich history. It was founded during the time of the Hanseatic League, a powerful medieval trading confederation.

2. Academics: The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. It covers various fields of study, with a particular focus on research and academic excellence.

3. Notable Alumni: The university boasts a long list of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. Notable figures who studied at the University of Greifswald include Ernst Moritz Arndt, a renowned poet and political writer, and Caspar David Friedrich, a famous German Romantic painter.

4. Research: The University of Greifswald is known for its research activities, particularly in fields like medicine, theology, law, and natural sciences. It is associated with several research institutes and projects.

5. Location: Greifswald is a picturesque town located on the Baltic Sea coast in northeastern Germany. The town and the university are known for their historical charm and academic traditions.

6. International Collaboration: Like many universities, the University of Greifswald actively engages in international collaboration and partnerships, contributing to global research and academic initiatives.

The University of Greifswald is a venerable institution with a strong tradition of academic excellence and research, and it continues to be an important center of learning and culture in Germany.

 

17 October - Sir Syed Ahmed Khan birth anniversary

 

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a prominent 19th-century Indian Muslim scholar, reformer, and educator. He was born on October 17, 1817, in Delhi, India, and he passed away on March 27, 1898.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan is most well-known for his efforts in the socio-educational upliftment of Muslims in India during the British colonial period. He played a significant role in promoting modern education among Muslims and advocating for their rights and empowerment in a rapidly changing social and political landscape. Some key points about him include:

1. Educational Reforms: Sir Syed was a pioneer in modern education for Muslims in India. He founded the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh in 1875, which later became the Aligarh Muslim University. His efforts aimed at blending traditional Islamic education with modern Western knowledge.

2. Advocate for Social Reforms: He promoted social reforms among the Muslim community, encouraging them to embrace modern science, rationality, and a more progressive outlook, while also preserving their cultural and religious identity.

3. Literary Contributions: Sir Syed was a prolific writer and scholar. He wrote on various subjects, including history, religion, and culture, and his works contributed to the intellectual development of the Muslim community.

4. Political Engagement: He was also involved in political activities and was a staunch supporter of the socio-political rights of Muslims. He advocated for constitutional reforms and the upliftment of the Muslim community within the framework of the British colonial rule.

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's legacy as an educator, reformer, and advocate for Muslim empowerment in India endures to this day. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Indian history and is remembered for his significant contributions to the modernization and empowerment of the Muslim community.

 

16 October - Vallathol Narayana Menon birth anniversary

 

Vallathol Narayana Menon (1878-1958) was a prominent Indian poet and a leading figure in the Malayalam literary renaissance. Here's a brief note about him:

Vallathol Narayana Menon was born on 16 October 1878, in the village of Chittur in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India, and he passed away on 13 March 1958. He is widely regarded as one of the most influential and celebrated poets in Malayalam literature.

Vallathol was a key figure in the literary and cultural revival of Kerala during the early 20th century. He co-founded the Kerala Kalamandalam, an institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional art forms, particularly Kathakali. He also played a significant role in the founding of the magazine "Saraswati," which became a platform for writers and artists to contribute to the cultural rejuvenation of Kerala.

His poetry was marked by its lyrical and emotional depth, often addressing themes of love, nature, and social issues. Vallathol's poetry also demonstrated his commitment to the upliftment of the underprivileged and the spread of education. His notable works include "Ramanan," "Magdalana Mariyam," and "Baliapalika."

Vallathol Narayana Menon's contributions to Malayalam literature and his efforts to revive traditional art forms in Kerala have left a lasting legacy. He is remembered not only for his poetic genius but also for his dedication to cultural preservation and social reform.

 

16 October - National Fossil Day

 

 National Fossil Day in the USA is celebrated on the second Wednesday in October each year, as part of Earth Science Week. It was established in 2010 by the National Park Service and the American Geosciences Institute to promote public awareness and stewardship of fossils, as well as to encourage the scientific and educational importance of paleontology.

On National Fossil Day, events are organized across the country, often in national parks, museums, and educational institutions, where people can learn about fossil discoveries, participate in fossil hunts, and attend talks by paleontologists. The day emphasizes the significance of fossils in understanding Earth's history and encourages the protection of fossil resources for future generations.

This year's National Fossil Day falls on October 16, 2024.

 

16 October - Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar death anniversary

 

Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar (1896-1974) was a renowned Indian Carnatic classical vocalist and one of the most prominent and influential musicians in the Carnatic music tradition. Here's a brief note about him:

Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar was born on 28 August 1896, in Chembai, a village in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India, and he passed away on 16 October 1974. He was a highly accomplished and celebrated Carnatic vocalist known for his exceptional musical prowess and devotion to the art form.

Chembai's contribution to Carnatic music is immeasurable. He had a rich and melodious voice, and his renditions of classical compositions and devotional songs earned him widespread acclaim. His music was characterized by its emotive and expressive style, which deeply resonated with audiences.

Throughout his career, Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavatar was a dedicated performer and participated in numerous concerts and festivals across India. He was particularly known for his interpretations of Tyagaraja kirtans and bhajans, which endeared him to music enthusiasts.

Chembai's legacy continues to influence contemporary Carnatic musicians, and he is remembered as one of the titans of the genre. His contributions to classical music and his efforts to popularize Carnatic music are celebrated, and he is revered for his significant role in the preservation and promotion of this ancient musical tradition.

 

16 October - FAO Day (Iraq)

 

FAO Day in Iraq is observed on October 16th each year. This day commemorates the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, which occurred on October 16, 1945.

FAO Day in Iraq serves as an occasion to raise awareness about the importance of food security, agricultural development, and rural livelihoods. It provides an opportunity to highlight the work of the FAO in Iraq and its efforts to promote sustainable agriculture, enhance food production, and improve nutrition and food systems.

On FAO Day, various events and activities may be organized across Iraq, including conferences, workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and community outreach programs. These events aim to engage stakeholders, including government officials, farmers, agricultural workers, educators, and the general public, in discussions and initiatives to address food security challenges and promote sustainable development in the agricultural sector.

FAO Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals related to food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable agriculture in Iraq and around the world. It underscores the importance of collaboration and partnership among governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to ensure a food-secure and sustainable future for all.