12 October - Vijaya Raje Scindia birth anniversary

 

Vijaya Raje Scindia, born on October 12, 1919, and passing away on January 25, 2001, was a prominent Indian political figure known for her involvement in politics and her contributions to the country's political landscape.

She was a member of the royal Maratha Scindia family of Gwalior. Her political career started in the 1950s when she joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (the predecessor of the Bharatiya Janata Party, or BJP) and subsequently became a prominent leader of the party.

Vijaya Raje Scindia was known for her commitment to conservative and right-wing political ideologies. She was a strong advocate for the interests of the people of her region and served as a Member of Parliament in various capacities. Her political influence and leadership contributed to the growth of the BJP.

Her birth and death dates reflect her significant presence in Indian politics during the 20th century, and she remains a respected and influential figure in the country's political history.

12 October - Columbus Day

 

Columbus Day is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Americas on October 12, 1492. It is observed on the second Monday in October each year. Columbus Day was first celebrated as a holiday in the United States in 1792 to mark the 300th anniversary of Columbus's historic voyage.

The holiday has traditionally been associated with the Italian-American community, as Christopher Columbus was of Italian descent, and it serves as a day to celebrate Italian heritage and contributions to American culture. Parades, events, and festivities often take place in cities with significant Italian-American populations.

However, Columbus Day has also been a subject of controversy and debate. Some people argue that Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas initiated a period of European colonization that had devastating consequences for indigenous peoples, including violence, disease, and displacement. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day as an alternative to Columbus Day, which aims to acknowledge and celebrate the cultures, contributions, and resilience of Native Americans.

In response to these concerns and changing perspectives, some states and localities in the United States have chosen to either replace or rename Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day or another holiday that recognizes the history and contributions of indigenous peoples.

Columbus Day continues to be observed in various forms across the United States, but its significance and the way it is celebrated may vary from one region to another, reflecting the ongoing dialogue about the holiday's historical and cultural implications.

 

12 October - Luciano Pavarotti birth anniversary

 

Luciano Pavarotti (1935-2007) was an acclaimed Italian operatic tenor, widely regarded as one of the greatest tenors of all time. Born on 12 October 1935, in Modena, Italy, Pavarotti gained international fame for his powerful and emotive voice, particularly in the bel canto repertoire.

Some key points about Luciano Pavarotti include:

1. Career Highlights:

   • Pavarotti's career took off in the early 1960s, and he achieved fame for his performances in various leading opera houses around the world.
   • He was known for his roles in operas by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Donizetti.
   • Pavarotti was one of the Three Tenors, along with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras, performing together during the 1990s and contributing to the popularization of opera.

2. Nessun Dorma:

   • One of Pavarotti's signature arias was "Nessun Dorma" from Puccini's opera "Turandot." His rendition of this aria became widely popular, and it is often associated with him.

3. Contribution to Popular Music:

   • Pavarotti crossed over into popular music, collaborating with various artists from different genres. He performed with artists such as Bono, Sting, and Eric Clapton, reaching a broader audience.

4. Philanthropy:

   • Pavarotti was involved in several charitable activities and humanitarian efforts. He used his fame to raise funds for various causes, including medical research and children's charities.

5. Legacy:

   • Luciano Pavarotti's impact on opera and classical music is profound. His recordings continue to be celebrated, and his influence on subsequent generations of tenors is significant.
   • Pavarotti passed away on 06 September 2007, in Modena, Italy, after battling pancreatic cancer.

Luciano Pavarotti's contribution to the world of opera and classical music has left an

 

12 October - Kullu Dussehra

 

Kullu Dussehra is a renowned and vibrant festival celebrated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a unique and grand celebration of the Hindu festival of Dussehra, which marks the victory of good over evil. Kullu Dussehra holds a special place among the various Dussehra celebrations in India due to its rich cultural traditions and grand processions.

Key features of Kullu Dussehra:

1. Duration: Kullu Dussehra lasts for seven days, making it one of the longest Dussehra celebrations in the country. It usually falls in the month of October.

2. Legend: The festival has a historical and mythological significance. It is believed to commemorate the return of Lord Raghunath (an idol of Lord Rama) to Kullu after defeating the demon king Ravana. The idol of Lord Raghunath is a central focus of the celebrations.

3. Processions: The highlight of Kullu Dussehra is the grand processions featuring beautifully decorated idols and chariots of various deities. The deities from different temples in the Kullu Valley are brought to the Dhalpur Maidan in Kullu town in a procession. This is a visual spectacle, and thousands of devotees and tourists gather to witness it.

4. Fairs and Cultural Performances: The festival is not just a religious event but also a cultural extravaganza. It includes various fairs, folk dances, music, and other cultural performances. Traditional Himachali attire and folk dances add to the festive atmosphere.

5. Traditional Attire: People, especially women, dress in their traditional Himachali attire during the festival. It's a time when the local culture and heritage are prominently displayed.

6. Rathyatras (Chariot Processions): The festival features impressive chariot processions carrying the deities, and these are a significant part of the celebrations.

Kullu Dussehra is an important event for the local community and attracts visitors from different parts of India and around the world. It offers a unique blend of religious fervor, cultural richness, and the natural beauty of the Kullu Valley, making it a must-visit festival for those interested in the diverse cultural heritage of India.

 

11 October - World Biryani Day

 

World Biryani Day is celebrated on 11 October specifically to appreciate the global love for biryani, a dish that transcends borders and cultures. On this day, biryani enthusiasts and food lovers come together to celebrate its rich history, variety, and cultural significance.

Biryani is known for its versatility, with countless regional versions existing across the globe, each offering unique flavors and preparations. Whether it’s the spicy Hyderabadi Biryani, the fragrant Lucknowi Biryani, the aromatic Malabar Biryani, or the hearty Sindhi Biryani, the dish has evolved over centuries, blending local ingredients with the foundational spices of the dish.

World Biryani Day on 11 October serves as a celebration for biryani aficionados to try new recipes, explore various regional versions, and share their love for the dish on social media and in gatherings.

11 October - General Pulaski Memorial Day

 

General Pulaski Memorial Day is a United States observance held annually on 11 October to honor General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish-born hero of the American Revolutionary War. Known as the "Father of the American Cavalry," Pulaski made significant contributions to the fight for American independence, particularly in his leadership and efforts to establish a robust cavalry force.

Casimir Pulaski was born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1745 and was a nobleman and military commander before coming to America. After fighting unsuccessfully against Russian control in Poland, Pulaski was recommended to George Washington by Benjamin Franklin. Pulaski joined the Continental Army in 1777 and quickly distinguished himself for his bravery and military skills. He played a key role in the Battle of Brandywine, helping to save Washington’s army from a potentially disastrous defeat. He went on to form and lead the Pulaski Legion, a highly effective cavalry and infantry unit.

General Pulaski was mortally wounded during the Siege of Savannah in Georgia on October 9, 1779, and died shortly afterward. His legacy as a hero of both Poland and the United States is commemorated through various monuments and events, with General Pulaski Memorial Day established by Congress to recognize his sacrifice and contributions to American liberty.

The day is marked by ceremonies and events that celebrate Pulaski's life and the shared history between Poland and the United States, particularly among Polish-American communities. Pulaski’s valor and dedication have made him a symbol of the enduring ties between the two nations.

11 October - NAVDURGA (NINE NIGHT) SIDDHIDATRI

 

Siddhidatri is the ninth and final form of the Hindu Goddess Durga, and she is worshipped on the ninth day of the Navratri festival, which is also known as Maha Navami. Siddhidatri is believed to be the bestower of supernatural powers or siddhis to her devotees, and her name literally means "the giver of siddhis" or "accomplishments."

Key characteristics and symbols associated with Siddhidatri include:

1. Four-Armed Goddess: Siddhidatri is often depicted as a four-armed goddess. In her hands, she holds a mace (gada) and a chakra, which are traditional weapons, and a lotus flower and a conch shell, symbolizing purity and the divine.

2. Riding on a Lion: She is seated on a lion, symbolizing strength, courage, and fearlessness.

3. Supernatural Powers: Devotees believe that Siddhidatri blesses them with various siddhis, including the ability to heal, levitate, foretell the future, and gain control over the elements.

On the ninth day of Navratri, worshipers seek the blessings of Siddhidatri to obtain spiritual powers, enlightenment, and success in their endeavors. It is a day of great devotion and celebration, with prayers, pujas, and festivities held in her honor.

Siddhidatri represents the culmination of the Navratri festival, where the divine feminine energy is worshipped in various forms over nine nights, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. After Navratri, the festival concludes with the celebration of Dussehra, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.

10 October - Jananayak Debeswar Sarmah

 

Jananayak Debeswar Sarmah, also known as Debeswar Sarmah, was an Indian freedom fighter and social reformer.

• Birth: Jananayak Debeswar Sarmah was born on October 10, 1896, in Assam, India.

• Role in Freedom Struggle: Debeswar Sarmah was actively involved in the Indian freedom struggle against British colonial rule. He was a staunch advocate for the rights of the Assamese people and worked to promote social reforms and cultural awareness.

• Assamese Literature: Sarmah was a prolific writer and poet who made significant contributions to Assamese literature. His writings often reflected his patriotism and commitment to social justice.

• Death: Jananayak Debeswar Sarmah passed away on August 1, 1993, leaving behind a legacy of social activism and literary achievements. He is remembered for his dedication to the welfare of Assam and his contributions to the cultural and literary heritage of the region.

 

10 October - RMS Leinster is torpedoed and sunk by UB-123.

 

On 10 October 1918, the RMS Leinster, a mail and passenger ship operated by the City of Dublin Steam Packet Company, was torpedoed and sunk by the German submarine UB-123 in the Irish Sea. This tragic event occurred during the final weeks of World War I, and it resulted in the loss of 564 lives, marking it as the worst maritime disaster ever recorded in the Irish Sea.

The RMS Leinster was on a routine voyage from Dublin to Holyhead, carrying civilians, military personnel, and mail. The war had made such crossings increasingly dangerous, as German U-boats patrolled the waters around Britain and Ireland. Despite this threat, the ship set sail on the morning of October 10, with over 700 passengers and crew on board.

As the Leinster approached the Welsh coast, UB-123, commanded by Oberleutnant Robert Ramm, fired three torpedoes at the ship. Two of them hit their target, causing catastrophic damage. The first struck the postal compartment, and the second hit the engine room. The ship sank rapidly, leaving many of the passengers and crew little time to escape. Despite efforts to launch lifeboats and assist survivors, the cold waters of the Irish Sea claimed hundreds of lives.

Of the approximately 771 people on board, only about 213 survived. The disaster was a devastating blow to both Ireland and Britain, with the majority of the victims being Irish civilians, British and Irish servicemen, and postal workers. The loss of the RMS Leinster came at a time when peace was on the horizon, with the Armistice of World War I just weeks away.

The sinking of the RMS Leinster is remembered as a significant wartime tragedy, and memorials have been erected in both Dublin and Holyhead to honor the lives lost. The disaster also highlighted the widespread devastation caused by unrestricted submarine warfare during the war, which targeted both military and civilian vessels indiscriminately.

10 October - The Battle of Karbala

 

The Battle of Karbala, fought on 10 October 680 CE (10th of Muharram, 61 AH), is one of the most defining and poignant events in Islamic history. It took place near the city of Karbala, in modern-day Iraq, between the forces of Yazid I, the Umayyad caliph, and Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. This battle holds immense significance for Shia Muslims, as it marks the martyrdom of Husayn and his companions, who stood against Yazid’s regime in defense of justice and moral integrity.

The conflict arose when Husayn refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid, whose rule he viewed as illegitimate and corrupt, representing a departure from the principles of Islam. In response, Yazid sent an army to suppress Husayn’s challenge. Husayn, along with his small group of family members and supporters, numbering around 72, faced a much larger Umayyad force of thousands. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Husayn and his followers stood firm, choosing to sacrifice their lives rather than compromise their values.

The battle was short but brutal. Husayn's companions were killed one by one, and finally, Husayn himself was martyred. His death, along with the suffering endured by the women and children of his family, who were taken captive after the battle, left an indelible mark on Islamic history. For Shia Muslims, the event symbolizes the eternal struggle between good and evil, oppression and justice.

The commemoration of this event, especially during the month of Muharram, culminates on Ashura, the day of the battle, when millions of Muslims around the world remember Husayn’s sacrifice through mourning rituals, processions, and reenactments of the battle. Karbala has become a symbol of resistance against tyranny, and Husayn’s martyrdom is seen as a universal message of standing against injustice, regardless of the cost.