14 July - Chandrayaan-3 launched

 

Chandrayaan-3 is a follow-on mission to Chandrayaan-2 to demonstrate end-to-end capability in safe landing and roving on the lunar surface. It consists of Lander and Rover configuration. It will be launched by LVM3 from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota. The launch of Chandrayaan-3 took place at 14 July 2023, at 2:35 pm IST

Chandrayaan-3 consists of an indigenous Lander module (LM), Propulsion module (PM) and a Rover with an objective of developing and demonstrating new technologies required for Inter planetary missions. The Lander will have the capability to soft land at a specified lunar site and deploy the Rover which will carry out in-situ chemical analysis of the lunar surface during the course of its mobility. The Lander and the Rover have scientific payloads to carry out experiments on the lunar surface. The main function of PM is to carry the LM from launch vehicle injection till final lunar 100 km circular polar orbit and separate the LM from PM. Apart from this, the Propulsion Module also has one scientific payload as a value addition which will be operated post separation of Lander Module.

 The mission objectives of Chandrayaan-3 are:

•     To demonstrate Safe and Soft Landing on Lunar Surface
•     To demonstrate Rover roving on the moon and
•     To conduct in-situ scientific experiments.

For reference we have put a cover of Chadrayaan 2 which was a special postal cover issued by West Bengal Postal Circle on Sep 07, 2019.

The cover bears the title "CHANDRAYAAN-2" in Hindi and English ("Chandrayaan" stands for "lunar spacecraft/vehicle") at the bottom left - "7 September 2019" (the date of the start of the lunar mission of the Indian spacecraft). The cover also includes an image of the Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft leaving Earth orbit and heading toward the Moon.

Stars in space can be seen in the background on the cover.

At upper right is a 500 paise (or Rs.5/-) stamp depicting the earth with the moon in the distance. It is from the set of stamps titled Solar System issued by India Post in 2018. The special postmark is inscribed "CHANDRAYAAN 2 MOON MISSION" and shows the spacecraft in the centre. The cancellation date is "07.09.2019" and the postmark is from Kolkata Post Office.

14 July - International Non-Binary People’s Day

 

It is a day dedicated to celebrating and recognizing individuals who identify as non-binary, as well as raising awareness about non-binary identities and the unique experiences of non-binary people.

Non-binary is an umbrella term used to describe gender identities that do not exclusively align with the binary categories of male or female. Non-binary individuals may identify as having a gender that is outside of, between, or beyond the traditional male and female spectrum. They may experience their gender as fluid, genderqueer, agender, bigender, or under various other non-binary identities.

International Non-Binary People's Day serves as an opportunity to promote visibility, understanding, and acceptance of non-binary individuals and their diverse experiences. It encourages conversations about gender diversity and challenges societal norms that limit gender to a binary system.

On this day, various activities and initiatives are organized to support non-binary people. These may include educational workshops, panel discussions, art exhibitions, social media campaigns, and community gatherings. The goal is to foster inclusivity, respect, and equal rights for non-binary individuals within society.

International Non-Binary People's Day contributes to ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and accepting world for people of all gender identities. It acknowledges the importance of recognizing and respecting the diversity of gender experiences and identities beyond the traditional binary framework.

14 July - Bastille Day

 

Bastille Day, known as "Fête nationale" or "le 14 Juillet" in French, is the national day of France. It is celebrated on July 14th each year and commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris, which took place on July 14, 1789, during the French Revolution.

The storming of the Bastille was a significant event that symbolized the uprising of the French people against the monarchy and the beginning of the French Revolution. The Bastille was a fortress and a symbol of royal authority and oppression. Its fall represented the people's demand for freedom, equality, and democracy.

Bastille Day is celebrated throughout France with various events and festivities. The highlight of the celebrations is a large military parade held on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, which showcases the French Armed Forces and honors their contributions to the nation.

In addition to the military parade, there are public gatherings, concerts, fireworks, and parties held across the country. Many people attend street parties, enjoy picnics, and participate in cultural and sporting events. The French tricolor flag, consisting of blue, white, and red, is prominently displayed throughout the celebrations.

Bastille Day is not only a celebration of the French Revolution but also a reflection of the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity that became the foundation of modern France. It is a day when the French people come together to commemorate their history, values, and national identity.

 

14 July - Madan Mohan death anniversary

 

Madan Mohan (1924-1975) was a renowned Indian film music composer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest music directors in the history of Indian cinema, particularly known for his work in the Hindi film industry, commonly known as Bollywood.

Madan Mohan's career spanned from the 1950s to the 1970s, during which he composed music for numerous Hindi films. He was known for his ability to create soulful and melodious compositions, often characterized by beautiful and heartfelt melodies.

His collaborations with legendary lyricist Rajendra Krishan and singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, and Talat Mahmood resulted in some of the most memorable songs in Indian film music. Madan Mohan's music often evoked a sense of emotion and captured the nuances of human relationships and sentiments.

Some of his notable film scores include movies like "Woh Kaun Thi?" (1964), "Haqeeqat" (1964), "Mera Saaya" (1966), "Laila Majnu" (1976), and many others. His compositions were appreciated for their depth, versatility, and ability to enhance the storytelling in films.

Despite his immense talent and contribution to film music, Madan Mohan didn't receive as much commercial success during his lifetime as some of his contemporaries. However, his work has gained greater recognition and appreciation over the years, and he is now considered a legendary figure in Indian film music.

Madan Mohan's compositions continue to be cherished by music enthusiasts, and his songs are often remembered for their timeless appeal. His legacy lives on through the soul-stirring melodies he created during his career.He died on 14 July 1975.

 

14 July - Deshbandhu Gupta birth anniversary

 Deshbandhu Gupta was a famous patriot, freedom fighter, and journalist .He was Born on 14 July 1900 in Panipat, Haryana.He was actively involved in the freedom struggle against British colonial rule in India. He played a significant role in advocating for Indian independence and promoting the rights and welfare of the Indian people. As a journalist, he used his platform to raise awareness, voice dissent against British policies, and mobilize public opinion in support of the freedom movement.

Gupta's contributions to the freedom struggle may have been more localized or within specific regions, which could explain the limited information available about him in broader historical references. However, his work as a patriot, freedom fighter, and journalist undoubtedly played a part in the broader narrative of India's fight for independence.

It's important to note that there were countless individuals who dedicated their lives to the cause of Indian independence, and while some are widely recognized and celebrated, others may have had more localized or regional significance. Their contributions collectively shaped the history and eventual attainment of independence for India.

14 July - The French Revolution

 

The French Revolution began on July 14, 1789, with the storming of the Bastille, which was a fortress and prison in Paris. This event is considered a key moment in the revolution and is widely recognized as the symbolic beginning of the French Revolution.

The revolution itself was a period of significant political and social upheaval in France, lasting from 1789 to 1799. It was marked by a series of events and reforms that aimed to overthrow the absolute monarchy, establish a constitutional government, and address the social and economic inequalities prevalent in French society at the time.

The revolution witnessed the rise and fall of different political factions, the Reign of Terror, the execution of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the eventual establishment of the First French Republic.

It is important to note that the revolution was a complex and multifaceted process that unfolded over the course of several years, with various events and turning points shaping its trajectory.

 

13 July - The inaugural FIFA World Cup began in Uruguay.

 

The inaugural FIFA World Cup, the most prestigious international football (soccer) tournament, began in Uruguay. The tournament took place in 1930 and was hosted by Uruguay, who also went on to win the championship.

The idea of organizing a global football tournament was proposed by Jules Rimet, the then-president of FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association). Uruguay was chosen as the host nation for the first World Cup because it had won the football gold medal at the 1924 Paris Olympics and the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, showcasing their strong footballing tradition.

The tournament took place from July 13 to July 30, 1930, in various cities across Uruguay, including the capital, Montevideo. Thirteen teams participated in the competition, representing different parts of the world. The teams were divided into four groups, and the matches were played in a round-robin format.

The final of the inaugural FIFA World Cup was held on July 30, 1930, at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo. Uruguay faced Argentina in the final match, which they won 4-2, securing their status as the first-ever FIFA World Cup champions.

The inaugural World Cup marked a significant moment in the history of international football, and it laid the foundation for the subsequent editions of the tournament, which has since become a global sporting phenomenon, capturing the attention of millions of fans worldwide.

 

13 July - Nesbitt envelope - USA issued its first postal envelope with an embossed stamp

 

In 1853, the United States issued its first postal envelope with an embossed stamp, known as the Nesbitt envelope. It featured an embossed 3-cent stamp design. The Nesbitt envelope was an innovation in postal stationery, providing a convenient and cost-effective option for sending mail.

The embossed stamp on the Nesbitt envelope eliminated the need for separate adhesive stamps, as the stamp was pre-printed and integrated into the envelope itself. This design helped simplify the mailing process for users.

The issuance of the Nesbitt envelope marked an important development in the history of postal services and philately in the United States. It was followed by subsequent issues of postal envelopes with embossed stamps in various denominations and designs.

 

13 July - Sovereignty Day of Montenegro

 

Sovereignty Day, also known as Statehood Day or Montenegro's National Day, is a significant public holiday in Montenegro. It is celebrated on July 13th each year to commemorate the country's independence and sovereignty.

Sovereignty Day marks the date when Montenegro declared its independence from the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro in 2006. Following a referendum held on May 21, 2006, in which the majority of voters supported independence, Montenegro officially became an independent nation on June 3, 2006. Sovereignty Day on July 13th signifies the formal recognition and celebration of Montenegro's sovereignty.

On this day, various events and ceremonies are held throughout the country. These may include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural performances, concerts, and fireworks displays. Government officials often deliver speeches emphasizing the importance of independence, national unity, and the progress made since Montenegro gained sovereignty.

Sovereignty Day is an opportunity for Montenegrins to reflect on their nation's journey towards independence and to celebrate their national identity and achievements. It is a time for unity, patriotism, and pride in Montenegro's rich history and cultural heritage.

12 July - Google is celebrating India’s much cherished street food “Pani Puri” with a doodle

 

Google is celebrating India’s much cherished street food “Pani Puri” with a doodle. It could be surprising for many to see Google Doodle coming up with an inactive game to celebrate one of India’s most popular street foods on July 12.

The reason is even more interesting.On this day in 2015, a restaurant in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, created history by finding a mention on the Golden Book of World Records for serving 51 varieties of Pani Puri.

 

Pani Puri, also known as Golgappa, Puchka, or Pani Batasha, is a popular street food snack in India, particularly in the northern and western regions. It consists of small, hollow, crispy puris (deep-fried dough balls) that are filled with a mixture of spicy, tangy water (pani), mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and various chutneys.

The preparation and serving of Pani Puri involve several steps. First, the puris are carefully cracked open on top to create a small hole. Then, a spoonful of mashed potato and chickpea mixture, known as the filling, is added to each puri. This is followed by a drizzle of sweet tamarind chutney, tangy green chutney, and spicy mint-coriander water (pani). Finally, the filled puris are eaten in one bite, delivering a burst of flavors and textures.

Pani Puri is loved for its combination of sweet, sour, spicy, and tangy flavors. It is a popular street food snack that is enjoyed by people of all ages. The dish is known for its refreshing and appetizing taste, making it a go-to option for hot summer days or as a delightful snack any time of the year.