24 August - Independence Day of Ukraine

 

Independence Day of Ukraine is the main state holiday in modern Ukraine,celebrated on 24 August in commemoration of the Declaration of Independence of 1991.

When Ukraine was still a Soviet republic, the Ukrainian diaspora traditionally recognized 22 January (the Declaration of Independence of the Ukrainian People's Republic in 1918) as Ukrainian Independence day.

The current form of the holiday was first celebrated on 16 July 1991, as the first anniversary of the Declaration of State Sovereignty of Ukraine passed by the Verkhovna Rada (Ukraine's parliament) in 1990.Since the Declaration of Independence was issued on 24 August 1991, and confirmed by the referendum of 1 December 1991, the date of the holiday was changed.

24 August - Flag Day in Liberia

 

Flag Day in Liberia is celebrated on August 24th each year. It is a national holiday in Liberia and is dedicated to honoring the country's flag, which holds great significance in Liberian history and identity.

The Liberian flag consists of 11 horizontal stripes of red and white, with a blue square in the upper left corner that contains a single white star. The flag's design is a symbol of Liberia's history and values, with the red and white stripes representing the 11 signatories of the Liberian Declaration of Independence. The blue square and white star symbolize African freedom and the ex-slaves and free black Americans who migrated to Liberia in the early 19th century.

On Flag Day, Liberians participate in various festivities and events to celebrate their national flag. This includes parades, cultural performances, educational programs, and ceremonies. Schools, government offices, and many businesses are closed for the day, allowing people to engage in patriotic activities and reflect on the importance of the flag to their nation's identity.

 

24 August - Bal Gangadhar Kher birth anniversary

 

Balasaheb Gangadhar Kher, commonly known as B. G. Kher, was an Indian politician and a key figure in the Indian National Congress during the pre-independence and post-independence periods. He served as the Chief Minister of the Bombay Presidency (now Maharashtra) and also played a role in shaping post-independence Maharashtra's political landscape.

Born on August 24, 1888, B. G. Kher was deeply involved in the freedom struggle against British colonial rule. He was an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi's principles and actively participated in various civil disobedience movements and initiatives to promote India's independence.

One of his significant contributions was his role in the integration of princely states into the newly formed Indian Union after independence. As Chief Minister of Bombay Presidency, he worked to ensure a smooth and peaceful transition of princely states like Saurashtra into the Indian Republic.

B. G. Kher was a respected leader and administrator known for his commitment to social welfare and education. He believed in fostering a progressive and inclusive society. He also played a role in establishing the Mumbai University.

Kher's legacy extends beyond his political career. He was instrumental in laying the foundation for the political structure of the state of Maharashtra after it was reorganized on linguistic lines. His contributions to the socio-political landscape of Maharashtra continue to be remembered and acknowledged.

B. G. Kher passed away on March 8, 1957. His efforts in both the pre-independence and post-independence eras have left a lasting impact on the political and social development of Maharashtra and India as a whole.

23 August - Chandrayaan-3 he lander and rover landed near the lunar south pole region of Moon

 

Chandrayaan-3 is the third Indian lunar exploration mission under the Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO) Chandrayaan programme.It consists of a lander named Vikram and a rover named Pragyan, similar to those of the Chandrayaan-2 mission. The propulsion module carried the lander and rover configuration to lunar orbit in preparation for a powered descent by the lander.

Chandrayaan-3 launched on 14 July 2023,and the lander and rover landed near the lunar south pole region on 23 August 2023 at 6.04 pm IST ,making India the first nation to successfully land a spacecraft near the lunar south pole, and the fourth country to soft-land on the Moon. 

Special cancellation on occasion of  successful landing on Moon by Mumbai region on 23 August 2023

23 August - Kobe Bryant birth anniversary

 

Kobe Bryant, born on August 23, 1978, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was an iconic professional basketball player and one of the greatest athletes in the history of the sport. He played his entire 20-year NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he became known for his remarkable skills, competitiveness, and commitment to excellence.

Bryant entered the NBA directly from high school, following in the footsteps of other talented players of his generation. Over the course of his illustrious career, he achieved numerous accolades and milestones.

Off the court, Bryant was involved in various philanthropic activities and creative projects. He won an Academy Award for his animated short film "Dear Basketball," which was based on a poem he wrote upon announcing his retirement from basketball.

Tragically, Kobe Bryant's life was cut short on January 26, 2020, when he, along with his daughter Gianna and several others, died in a helicopter crash in Calabasas, California. His untimely passing sent shockwaves throughout the world and left a profound impact on the sports community, fans, and beyond.

Kobe Bryant's legacy as a basketball legend, a dedicated athlete, and a role model for perseverance continues to inspire countless individuals around the globe. He is remembered not only for his remarkable athletic achievements but also for his passion, determination, and the enduring impact he made on the world of sports and beyond.

23 August - Vallabhbhai Patel became the Deputy Prime Minister of India

 

On August 23, 1947, a historic moment occurred in the newly independent India when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister of the country. This significant appointment came alongside his role as the Minister of Home Affairs in the newly formed Indian government.

Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the "Iron Man of India," played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence and the subsequent process of nation-building. As the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs, Patel was entrusted with the challenging task of integrating the princely states into the newly formed Indian Union. His leadership, diplomacy, and persuasive skills were instrumental in convincing many princely states to accede to India, unifying the diverse nation under one flag.

Patel's contributions extended beyond his political roles. He was a staunch advocate for social justice and equality, emphasizing the importance of building a united and inclusive nation. His firm resolve and dedication earned him the respect and admiration of his contemporaries and continue to inspire generations.

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's appointment as the Deputy Prime Minister of India marked a critical juncture in the country's history, setting the tone for the challenges and achievements that would shape its future. His legacy as a unifier, leader, and visionary remains deeply ingrained in India's identity and collective memory.

 

23 August - International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade

 

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition is observed annually on August 23rd to honor the memory of the millions of Africans who suffered and lost their lives as a result of the transatlantic slave trade. This day also serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and confronting the historical injustices of slavery.

The transatlantic slave trade, which spanned several centuries, was a brutal system that forcibly transported Africans across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the European colonial expansion. Slaves were subjected to inhumane treatment, violence, and dehumanization, enduring immense suffering under the yoke of slavery.

On August 23, 1791, an important event occurred in the fight against slavery: the Haitian Revolution began with a slave uprising in the French colony of Saint-Domingue (now Haiti). This revolution played a crucial role in challenging the institution of slavery and ultimately led to the establishment of an independent Haiti.

The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition encourages reflection on the historical significance of slavery and the importance of eradicating racial discrimination and inequalities that persist today. It also highlights the resilience of those who fought against oppression and the power of collective action to bring about social change.

Through events, education, and cultural initiatives, this day fosters a deeper understanding of the impact of slavery on societies and emphasizes the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and justice. By commemorating this day, the international community recognizes the need to confront the painful legacy of the slave trade and to work towards a world where human dignity and equality prevail.

22 August - World Plant Milk Day

 

World Plant Milk Day, celebrated on August 22nd each year, is a global initiative that highlights the growing popularity and importance of plant-based milk alternatives. This day serves as a reminder of the diverse and sustainable options available for those seeking dairy-free alternatives.

As more people become conscious of their dietary choices, plant-based milk has emerged as a nutritional and ethical alternative to traditional dairy milk. Made from sources like soy, almonds, oats, and coconuts, these milk alternatives cater to a variety of dietary needs, including lactose intolerance, allergies, and ethical considerations.

World Plant Milk Day isn't just about providing an alternative; it's also about celebrating the positive impact these choices have on personal health and the environment. Many plant-based milk products are fortified to ensure they match the nutritional benefits of cow's milk while requiring fewer resources to produce. This contributes to a reduced carbon footprint and less strain on land and water resources.

 

22 August - Madras (now Chennai) was founded in 1639

 

On August 22, 1639, a significant event took place in the history of India – the founding of Madras (now known as Chennai). This day marked the establishment of a British settlement on the Coromandel Coast of South India. The settlement was established by the British East India Company and served as a trading post and a strategic base for British colonial activities in the region.

The establishment of Madras was part of the East India Company's efforts to establish a presence along the Indian coastline for trade purposes. The settlement was strategically located between the Portuguese-controlled Goa in the north and the Dutch-controlled Pulicat in the south.

The initial settlement was centered around a fort, Fort St. George, which was constructed to protect the trading interests of the East India Company. Over time, the area around the fort developed into the city of Madras, serving as an important hub for trade, commerce, and colonial administration.

Madras grew and evolved over the centuries, becoming a significant center of British colonial influence in India. It played a vital role during the colonial era, witnessing changes in governance, trade, and culture. The city's architecture, institutions, and cultural diversity reflect its rich historical past and the influences of various civilizations.

Today, Chennai is the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and continues to be a major economic, cultural, and educational hub in South India. It is known for its thriving film industry, educational institutions, and IT sector. The founding of Madras on August 22, 1639, remains a significant historical event that shaped the trajectory of the city and its role in India's history.

 

22 August - Deng Xiaoping birth anniversary

 

Deng Xiaoping, born on August 22, 1904, in Guang'an, Sichuan, China, was a transformative political figure and statesman who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern course of China's history. He is celebrated for his pragmatic and innovative policies that modernized China's economy, ushering in an era of reform and openness that changed the trajectory of the nation.

Deng Xiaoping's political career began during the early days of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the struggle against the Nationalist forces. His leadership skills and commitment to the Communist cause led him to various positions within the party hierarchy. However, it was his tenure as the paramount leader of China from the late 1970s until the early 1990s that would leave an indelible mark on the country.