05 December - International Volunteer Day

 

International Volunteer Day (IVD) is observed annually on December 5th. It is a global celebration that provides an opportunity to recognize and honor the efforts of volunteers worldwide, as well as to promote the value of volunteerism in making positive contributions to communities and societies.

The United Nations established International Volunteer Day to raise awareness about the importance of volunteerism and to inspire more people to engage in volunteer activities. The day also serves as a platform for volunteer organizations and individuals to showcase their work, share their experiences, and highlight the impact of volunteering on local and global issues.

Each year, International Volunteer Day has a specific theme that focuses on various aspects of volunteerism. The themes often highlight the role of volunteers in addressing specific social, economic, or environmental challenges.

Volunteering plays a crucial role in addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, environmental sustainability, and community development. It fosters a sense of civic responsibility, solidarity, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. On International Volunteer Day, organizations and communities often organize events, conferences, and activities to recognize volunteers and promote the importance of volunteering.

05 December - Robert Watson-Watt death anniversary

 

Sir Robert Watson-Watt (1892–1973) was a Scottish physicist and engineer who played a crucial role in the development of radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) technology. Born on April 13, 1892, in Brechin, Scotland, Watson-Watt's work in radar had a significant impact on military and civilian applications, especially during World War II.

In the 1930s, Watson-Watt was involved in research related to radio waves and the ionosphere. In 1935, he was appointed to head a committee in the United Kingdom tasked with investigating the possibility of using radio waves to detect aircraft. Watson-Watt and his team quickly developed the concept of radar as a means of detecting and locating aircraft.

The first practical radar system, known as Chain Home, was deployed along the British coastline during the late 1930s and played a crucial role in the defense of Britain during the Battle of Britain in 1940. Radar allowed the British Royal Air Force to detect incoming German aircraft, providing valuable time to scramble fighter planes and respond to potential threats.

Watson-Watt's contributions to radar technology were of great strategic importance during World War II, and he was knighted for his efforts in 1942. After the war, he continued to work in scientific research and government service. Watson-Watt's work laid the foundation for the widespread development and application of radar technology in various fields, including aviation, meteorology, and navigation. He is remembered as a key figure in the advancement of radar and its impact on modern technology. Watson-Watt passed away on 05 December 1973.

05 December - Josh Malihabadi Indo- Pakistan poet

 

Josh Malihabadi (born Shabbir Hasan Khan; 5 December 1898 – 22 February 1982) popularly known as Shayar-e-Inqalab (poet of revolution) was a Pakistani poet and is regarded as one of the finest Urdu poets of the era of British India. Known for his liberal values and challenging the established order, he wrote over 100,000 couplets and more than 1,000 rubaiyat in his lifetime. His wrote Yaadon ki Barat, his autobiography which is noted for its frank and candid style. The first Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru held him in high esteem and frequently attended the mushaira at Lala Kishan Lal Kalra's United Coffee House where Josh performed.

Some of his works were translated to English like The Unity of Mankind elegies by Josh Malihabadi by Syed Akbar Pasha Tirmizi who was a Pakistani citizen and a high court advocate.

Josh migrated to Pakistan in 1956 – despite Jawaharlal Nehru's insistence against it – over what is generally believed to be his concern regarding the future of Josh and Urdu language in India, where he thought the Hindu majority would encourage the use of Hindi rather than Urdu. After migration, Josh settled in Karachi and worked for Anjuman-i-Tarraqi-i-Urdu.Josh remained in Pakistan until he died on 22 February 1982 in Islamabad

04 December - Sati banned was enacted through the Bengal Sati Regulation

 

The regulation that effectively banned Sati was enacted through the Bengal Sati Regulation, which was passed on December 4, 1829, by the then-Governor-General of India, Lord William Bentinck after years of campaigning by Mohan Roy.

This regulation was a significant step in the efforts to abolish the practice of Sati, where widows were expected to self-immolate on their husband's funeral pyre. The British colonial authorities, along with Indian social reformers, played a crucial role in campaigning against this practice, considering it inhumane and a violation of basic human rights.

The Bengal Sati Regulation of 1829 marked the beginning of legislative measures to eradicate Sati, and similar laws were later extended to other parts of British India. It is an important milestone in the history of social reform and women's rights in India during the colonial period.

 

04 December - International Day of Banks

 

The United Nations General Assembly designated 04 December as International Day of Banks to recognize of the significant potential of multilateral development banks and other international development banks in financing sustainable development and. also in recognition of the vital role of the banking systems in the United Nations Member States in contributing to the improvement of the standard of living.

03 December - Lance Naik Albert Ekka death anniversary

 

Lance Naik Albert Ekka was born on 27 December 1942, and he died on 03 December 1971. He was an Indian Army soldier who posthumously received the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration for valor, for his exceptional courage and sacrifice during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Lance Naik Albert Ekka's actions during the battle exemplified extraordinary bravery and selflessness in the face of the enemy.

03 December - Illinois was admitted as the 21st U.S. state

 

Illinois was admitted as the 21st U.S. state on December 3, 1818. This means that December 3, 1818, marks the day when Illinois officially joined the United States as a state. The state's capital is Springfield, and it is known for its diverse geography, including farmland, forests, and the city of Chicago, which is one of the largest cities in the United States.

03 December - Emergency was imposed in India

 

On  03 December 1971, then-Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in India.The state of emergency was primarily a response to internal political unrest and challenges to the government. During the emergency period (1975-1977), certain civil liberties were suspended, and there was increased government control. The political climate and events leading up to the emergency were complex, involving issues of governance, political opposition, and social unrest.

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 did take place during this time, and it was a separate event from the declaration of the state of emergency. The war between India and Pakistan in 1971 ultimately led to the creation of Bangladesh.

 

03 December - Father Francis Xavier death anniversary

 

Francisco de Jasso y Azpilicueta, more commonly known as Saint Francis Xavier, was born on April 7, 1506, in the Kingdom of Navarre (now part of Spain). He died on 03 December , 1552, on the Chinese island of Shangchuan, near Guangzhou, while awaiting permission to enter China as a missionary. Saint Francis Xavier was a co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and one of the most significant figures in the history of Christian missionary work.

03 December - Nandalal Bose birth anniversary

 

Nandalal Bose (1882–1966) was a prominent Indian painter and one of the key figures of the Bengal School of Art. He played a crucial role in the development of modern Indian art. Here are some key points about Nandalal Bose:

1. Early Life: Nandalal Bose was born on December 3, 1882, in Bihar, India. He showed an early interest and talent in art.

2. Education: Bose studied at the Calcutta School of Art, where he was mentored by Abanindranath Tagore, the nephew of the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore. Abanindranath was a significant influence on Bose and introduced him to the principles of the Bengal School of Art.

3. Bengal School of Art: Nandalal Bose, along with Abanindranath Tagore and others, played a crucial role in the Bengal School of Art, a movement that sought to promote Indian traditional art and revitalize it in the face of Western influences.

4. Santiniketan: Bose became closely associated with Rabindranath Tagore and joined the Visva-Bharati University at Santiniketan. He played a vital role in shaping the art curriculum at Santiniketan and contributed to the establishment of Kala Bhavan, the university's art school.

5. Artistic Style: Nandalal Bose's artistic style was deeply rooted in traditional Indian art forms. He drew inspiration from Indian mythology, folk art, and classical art traditions. His work often featured themes of nationalism, social issues, and spirituality.

6. Contribution to Indian Art: Bose is known for his efforts to blend traditional Indian art with modern styles. He experimented with various techniques and mediums, including wash painting and frescoes. His art reflects a deep connection to Indian culture and a commitment to portraying the essence of the country's heritage.

7. Notable Works: Some of his notable works include the "Harvest Scene," "Krishna and Balarama," and the "Indian Wedding." His contribution to the "Constitutional Assembly of India" is also highly regarded.

8. Awards and Recognition: Nandalal Bose received numerous awards for his contribution to art, including the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian award in India, in 1954.

Nandalal Bose's legacy continues to influence Indian art, and his contributions to the Bengal School and the development of modern Indian art are widely recognized.