08 December - Submarine Day in India

 

Submarine Day in India is observed on December 8 each year to commemorate the commissioning of the Indian Navy's first submarine, INS Kalvari, on this day in 1967. This day honors the establishment of the Submarine Arm of the Indian Navy, celebrating its contributions to the country's maritime security and strategic capabilities.

Key Facts about Submarine Day in India:

1. INS Kalvari:

   • INS Kalvari was a Foxtrot-class submarine, acquired from the Soviet Union.
   • It marked the beginning of India’s journey as a submarine-operating nation.
   • The name "Kalvari" refers to the tiger shark, symbolizing stealth and strength.

2. Growth of the Submarine Arm:

   • Since 1967, the Indian Navy's Submarine Arm has evolved significantly, now comprising conventional submarines (diesel-electric) and nuclear-powered submarines.
   • India's Arihant-class submarines represent its foray into strategic nuclear deterrence.

3. Significance of the Day:

   • Submarine Day acknowledges the sacrifices and dedication of submarine personnel.
   • It is a tribute to the technological advancements and operational achievements of the Submarine Arm.

4. Modern Fleet:

   • The Indian Navy’s current fleet includes Scorpène-class submarines like the new INS Kalvari, part of the Project-75 initiative.
   • These submarines are equipped with advanced stealth features and weaponry.

08 December - Battle Day Falkland Islands

 

Battle Day is observed annually on December 8 in the Falkland Islands to commemorate the decisive naval victory of the British Royal Navy over the Imperial German Navy during the Battle of the Falkland Islands in 1914. This battle was a significant engagement in the early stages of World War I, showcasing British naval supremacy and marking the end of the German East Asia Squadron's threat in the South Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The battle occurred on December 8, 1914, near the Falkland Islands, when a British fleet under Vice-Admiral Sir Doveton Sturdee intercepted and defeated the German fleet commanded by Vice-Admiral Maximilian von Spee. The German squadron had previously achieved a victory at the Battle of Coronel but was decisively outgunned and outmaneuvered at the Falklands. The British victory restored control of the region's crucial sea lanes.

In the Falkland Islands, Battle Day is a public holiday and a significant historical observance. It is marked by memorial services, particularly at the 1914 Battle Memorial in Stanley, the capital of the Falkland Islands. These ceremonies honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought and reflect on the event's impact on the islands' history. The day is also a reminder of the Falklands' strategic importance during wartime and its enduring ties to British heritage.

08 December - Constitution Day (Uzbekistan)

 

Constitution Day in Uzbekistan is celebrated annually on December 8 to mark the adoption of the country’s Constitution in 1992. This pivotal document, established soon after Uzbekistan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, serves as the foundation of the nation’s legal and political framework. The Constitution outlines Uzbekistan’s status as a sovereign, democratic republic, enshrining principles such as equality, human rights, and the rule of law.

The day is observed as a public holiday across the country, with various celebratory events organized by the government and civic institutions. These include official ceremonies, speeches by national leaders, and discussions on the importance of constitutional values in building a just and prosperous society. Educational programs in schools and universities often emphasize the historical significance of the Constitution and its role in fostering national identity and unity.

Cultural events, such as concerts, exhibitions, and performances, also take place, highlighting Uzbekistan's rich heritage and achievements since independence. Constitution Day not only commemorates the adoption of the nation’s supreme law but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to uphold the democratic principles and aspirations of the Uzbek people.

08 December - National Youth Day in Albania

 

National Youth Day in Albania, observed annually on December 8, is a significant occasion that celebrates the role of young people in the nation’s history and their contributions to its future. This day commemorates the pivotal student-led protests of December 8, 1990, which played a crucial role in dismantling Albania's Communist regime. These demonstrations, initiated by students of the University of Tirana, called for democratic reforms and an end to decades of oppressive rule. Their courage and determination marked the beginning of Albania’s transition to democracy, making this date a symbol of youthful resilience and the pursuit of freedom.

The day is celebrated with a variety of activities, including public events, debates, and cultural programs that highlight the aspirations and challenges faced by Albanian youth. Political leaders, educators, and activists often use the occasion to reflect on the progress made since the protests and to discuss the ongoing need for youth empowerment in Albania's political, social, and economic spheres. National Youth Day is a reminder of the power of young voices in shaping history and the importance of nurturing their potential for the country's future.

08 December - Shri Santaji Jagnade Maharaj birth anniversary

 

Shri Santaji Jagnade Maharaj (1624–1688) was one of fourteen cymbal players employed by Shri Tukaram Maharaja, a prominent Marathi Sant. Jagnade wrote their own Abhangs and also recorded several of Tukaram's Abhangs,He belonged to the Teli caste of oil producers. Jagnade was born and brought up in Sadumbare in the Maval tehsil in the Pune District. He was a Varkari, a devotee of Lord Vittala (or Vithobā), an incarnation of Lord Krishna, who in turn, is considered in Hinduism to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. A stamp commemorating Jagnade was released in February 2009 by the Indian Postal Service.He was born on 08 December 1624

08 December - Balaji Rao II birth anniversary

 

Balaji Rao II, also known as Nana Saheb,was born on December 08, 1730 and was a prominent Maratha ruler who lived during the 18th century. He was the Peshwa (Prime Minister) of the Maratha Empire and played a significant role in the political and military affairs of the time.

Balaji Rao II succeeded his father, Raghunath Rao (Raghoba), as the Peshwa in 1773. His tenure as Peshwa faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with the British East India Company. One of the notable events during his leadership was the First Anglo-Maratha War (1775-1782).

The Treaty of Salbai (1782) concluded the First Anglo-Maratha War and resulted in territorial adjustments between the Marathas and the British. The treaty brought a temporary halt to hostilities, but tensions continued to simmer, leading to further conflicts in subsequent years.

Balaji Rao II's rule also saw internal struggles within the Maratha Empire, with various factions vying for power. Additionally, his relationship with his cousin and rival, Nana Fadnavis (also known as Narayan Rao), was marked by political intrigues and power struggles.

Balaji Rao II's tenure as Peshwa was challenging, marked by military conflicts and internal strife. His rule came to an end with his death on 23 June 1796. After his death, the Maratha Empire continued to face political and military challenges, eventually leading to the decline of Maratha power in the early 19th century.

07 December - Subrahmanya Sashti - Hindu festival

 

Subrahmanya Sashti, also known as Skanda Sashti or Kartikeya Sashti, is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya (also called Lord Murugan or Skanda), the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is observed on the sixth day (Sashti) of the waxing phase of the moon in the Hindu lunar month of Margashirsha (November–December in the Gregorian calendar).

This auspicious day commemorates Lord Murugan's victory over the demon Surapadman, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Murugan was created to destroy evil forces and protect righteousness. The festival is particularly significant in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, where Lord Murugan is widely worshipped.

Observances and Rituals:

1. Fasting: Devotees observe a fast, often abstaining from solid food and consuming only fruits and liquids. Some follow strict austerities and avoid tamasic foods like garlic and onions.

2. Temple Worship: Special pujas and abhishekams (ritual bathing of the deity) are performed in temples dedicated to Lord Murugan. Devotees chant the Skanda Shasti Kavacham, a hymn invoking Lord Murugan’s blessings.

3. Processions and Celebrations: Many temples organize grand processions of Murugan's idols. The festival is celebrated with devotion and fervor in prominent temples like Tiruchendur Murugan Temple in Tamil Nadu.

4. Symbolic Dramas: The enactment of the battle between Lord Murugan and Surapadman is a highlight in many places. This drama, known as Soorasamharam, signifies the victory of divine energy over negative forces.

Subrahmanya Sashti is not just a religious occasion but also a spiritual celebration of courage, discipline, and devotion. It reminds devotees of the importance of overcoming inner and outer evils through faith and righteousness.

07 December - NASA's Galileo Space Craft reached Jupiter 1995

 

NASA's Galileo spacecraft did indeed reach Jupiter. Here are some key details about the Galileo mission:

• Launch: Galileo was launched on October 18, 1989, aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis (STS-34).
• Jupiter Arrival: The spacecraft arrived at Jupiter on December 7, 1995.
• Mission Duration: The Galileo mission lasted until September 21, 2003, when it was intentionally directed to enter Jupiter's atmosphere and burn up to avoid any possible contamination of Jupiter's moon Europa, which scientists considered a target of interest in the search for extraterrestrial life.

During its mission, Galileo provided valuable data about Jupiter and its moons, conducting detailed studies of the planet's atmosphere, magnetosphere, and the Galilean moons (Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto). It made numerous flybys of these moons, revealing their diverse geology and surface features. The Galileo spacecraft significantly contributed to our understanding of the Jupiter system and planetary science in general.

 

07 December - Chuck Yeager death anniversary

 

Charles Elwood "Chuck" Yeager was an American test pilot and aeronautical engineer who became the first person to break the sound barrier. Here are some key details about Chuck Yeager:

• Birth: 13 February 1923
• Death: 07 December 2020

Chuck Yeager's most notable achievement occurred on October 14, 1947, when he piloted the Bell X-1 rocket plane and became the first human to fly faster than the speed of sound. This historic event took place at an altitude of 45,000 feet over the Mojave Desert in California.

Yeager continued to have a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, eventually reaching the rank of brigadier general. He flew a variety of aircraft and contributed significantly to the development of aviation technology.

In addition to his groundbreaking achievements in aviation, Chuck Yeager was widely respected and celebrated for his contributions to the field. His legacy continues to influence the world of aviation and space exploration.

07 December - Jatindranath Mukherjee (Bagha Jatin) birth anniversary

 

Bagha Jatin, whose real name was Jatindranath Mukherjee, was a Bengali revolutionary nationalist leader in India. He was born on 07 December  1879, in Kushtia (now in Bangladesh), and he passed away on 10 September , 1915. Bagha Jatin played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and is remembered for his contributions to the cause. He was a prominent leader in the Jugantar party, which was involved in various revolutionary activities against British rule in India.