31 August - Pranab Mukherjee death anniversary

 

Pranab Mukherjee, born on 11 December 1935, was a distinguished Indian politician and statesman who made significant contributions to the country's political landscape. He served in various key roles, both within the government and the Indian National Congress party, over his illustrious career.

Mukherjee's political journey spanned several decades, during which he held numerous significant positions, including Minister of Finance, Minister of Defense, and Minister of External Affairs. His expertise in economic matters earned him the reputation of being one of India's most influential finance ministers, with key contributions to shaping the country's economic policies.

One of his most remarkable accomplishments was his role in orchestrating economic reforms in the early 1990s that aimed to liberalize and open up the Indian economy. These reforms laid the foundation for India's economic growth and transformation on the global stage.

In addition to his economic prowess, Pranab Mukherjee was known for his astute diplomacy and foreign policy acumen during his tenure as the Minister of External Affairs. He played a crucial role in strengthening India's international relations and fostering strategic partnerships with various nations.

Mukherjee's commitment to public service culminated in his election as the 13th President of India in 2012, a position he held until 2017. As President, he brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role, upholding the values of the Indian Constitution and representing the nation with dignity and integrity.

On August 31, 2020, India bid farewell to this eminent leader who had left an indelible mark on its political and economic landscape. Pranab Mukherjee's legacy as a visionary politician, skilled economist, and devoted public servant continues to inspire generations, serving as a reminder of his dedication to the welfare and progress of the nation.

31 August - World Distance Learning Day

 

World Distance Learning Day is celebrated on August 31st to recognize and embrace learning that takes place outside a physical classroom. Remote learning is completed entirely online live by an instructor, and hybrid options combine learning online and in the classroom. Both options have given flexibility and opportunities to students around the world.

Distance learning has given more individuals the opportunity to have access to online education, allowing traditional education methods to completely transform. High-quality online and hybrid curricula and courses continue to develop, allowing distance learning options to advance. World Distance Learning Day was created to celebrate learning resources and options that are available to students and to show how far the idea of distance education has advanced.

31 August - Malaysia National Day

 

Malaysia National Day, also known as Hari Merdeka in Malay, is celebrated on August 31st each year. It commemorates the day in 1957 when the Federation of Malaya gained independence from British colonial rule and became a sovereign nation. The term "Merdeka" means "independence" in Malay.

On August 31, 1957, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman, declared independence from British colonial rule, marking a significant moment in the country's history. The Union Jack was lowered, and the new flag of Malaysia, which is a combination of 14 alternating red and white stripes representing the 13 states of the country and the federal territories, was raised.

National Day celebrations in Malaysia are marked by various events and activities throughout the country. One of the most notable events is the Merdeka Parade, which takes place in the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. During the parade, there are vibrant displays of cultural performances, military processions, and elaborate floats showcasing Malaysia's cultural diversity and achievements.

In addition to the parade, there are flag-raising ceremonies, fireworks displays, cultural exhibitions, and various community activities held across the nation. Schools, government buildings, and public spaces are often decorated with the national flag and patriotic symbols to commemorate the occasion.

Malaysia's National Day is a time for Malaysians to come together, celebrate their cultural diversity, and reflect on their country's journey towards independence and progress. It's a day to express national pride and unity, while also acknowledging the challenges and achievements that have shaped the nation's history.

30 August - Narali Purnima

 

Narali Purnima, also known as Coconut Day or Raksha Bandhan, is a Hindu festival that is celebrated on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Shravana, which usually falls in July or August in the Gregorian calendar. This festival holds significance in various regions of India, particularly in the coastal states.

The term "Narali" is derived from the Marathi word "naral," which means coconut. The festival is named after the tradition of offering coconuts to the sea as a way to seek the blessings and protection of the sea god Varuna. It is often celebrated in coastal communities as a way to express gratitude for the ocean's bounty and to seek safe journeys for fishermen and sailors.

During Narali Purnima, people in coastal areas perform rituals and offer coconuts, flowers, and other offerings to the sea. This is usually accompanied by prayers and ceremonies to invoke the blessings of Varuna for a prosperous and safe life at sea.

In some regions, Narali Purnima is also associated with the festival of Raksha Bandhan. On this day, sisters tie protective threads (rakhi) around the wrists of their brothers, symbolizing the bond of love and protection between siblings. In return, brothers offer gifts and promise to protect their sisters. While Raksha Bandhan is celebrated widely across India, the connection between Raksha Bandhan and Narali Purnima is more prevalent in certain communities.

As with many Hindu festivals, the traditions and customs associated with Narali Purnima can vary based on regional practices and cultural interpretations.

 

30 August - The HMS Pandora sank in 1791

 

The HMS Pandora, a British Royal Navy ship, did indeed sink after running aground on the outer Great Barrier Reef on August 29, 1791. The ship was sent on a mission to capture the mutineers from the famous HMS Bounty, who had taken control of the ship and sailed it to Tahiti.

After capturing some of the mutineers, the HMS Pandora continued its journey but encountered treacherous waters and strong currents on the outer Great Barrier Reef. The ship struck a reef and began to take on water. Despite efforts to save the ship, it eventually sank on August 30, 1791. The incident resulted in the loss of several crew members, including some of the captured mutineers, as well as a significant amount of valuable cargo.

The wreck of the HMS Pandora was discovered in the late 20th century, and it has since become an important historical and archaeological site. The shipwreck provides insights into maritime history and the events surrounding the famous mutiny on the HMS Bounty.

 

30 August - Krishna Kumar Birla death anniversary

 

Krishna Kumar Birla (1918 – 2008) was an Indian industrialist and philanthropist, known for his contributions to the business world and social initiatives. He was a prominent member of the Birla family, a well-known business dynasty in India. Here are some key points about him:

Early Life and Family: Krishna Kumar Birla was born on February 12, 1918, in Pilani, Rajasthan, India. He was part of the influential Birla family, which has been involved in various industries and philanthropic activities for generations.

Business Ventures: Krishna Kumar Birla was involved in various business ventures, including textiles, cement, and more. He played a role in the management and growth of the Birla companies, contributing to their expansion and success.

Philanthropy: Apart from his business endeavors, Krishna Kumar Birla was also known for his philanthropic work. He supported various social and educational initiatives. He was associated with educational institutions, hospitals, and other charitable organizations, working to improve the lives of people through his philanthropic efforts.

Legacy: Krishna Kumar Birla's legacy extends beyond his business accomplishments. His contributions to philanthropy and his commitment to social causes are also significant aspects of his life. He was known for his humility, ethics, and dedication to the betterment of society.

Passing: Krishna Kumar Birla passed away on August 30, 2008, in Mumbai, India. His contributions to business, philanthropy, and society continue to be remembered and appreciated.

 

30 August - International Whale Shark Day

 

International Whale Shark Day is celebrated on August 30th each year to raise awareness about the world's largest fish species, the whale shark (Rhincodon typus), and to promote the conservation of these gentle giants. Whale sharks are not whales but rather a type of slow-moving filter-feeding shark. They are characterized by their massive size, distinctive spotted patterns, and their role as an indicator species for the health of marine ecosystems.

The day serves as an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of protecting whale sharks and their habitats. It also highlights the need for sustainable practices to ensure the survival of these magnificent creatures. Various organizations, researchers, and conservationists use this day to organize events, campaigns, and educational programs to foster understanding and support for the conservation of whale sharks and their marine environments.

30 August - USA celebrates National Beach Day

 

National Beach Day is celebrated at the height of Summer, on August 30.

Everyone loves to spend a warm day laying on their towel on a sandy beach, making sandcastles, and taking a dip in the beautiful sea.

This is the day to celebrate that experience! National Beach Day also raises awareness about how important it is to keep beaches clean so everyone can enjoy them.

The first people to have the idea of a day to celebrate the beaches in the United States were the Knights of Columbus in Milwaukee, in 1929. This day was meant to be a part of their convention plans, but it never took off in popularity.

The day was forgotten until 2014 when family lifestyle expert Colleen Page created National Beach Day to be observed at the end of August.

The goal of this day is to show appreciation for beaches and show people that they must be kept clean so that future generations can enjoy them as we do!

30 August - Small Industry Day India

 

On August 30th every year, India observes National Small Industry Day, a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contribution of small industries to the nation’s economic development. This occasion serves as a platform for both central and state governments to showcase their commitment to nurturing and supporting these enterprises that form the bedrock of the Indian economy. These small-scale businesses not only fuel economic growth but also play a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities for a significant portion of the population.

30 August - Shailendra birth anniversary

 

Shailendra (30 August 1923 – 14 December 1966) was a popular Indian Hindi-Urdu Poet, lyricist and film producer. Noted for his association with the filmmaker Raj Kapoor, singer Mukesh, and the composers Shankar–Jaikishan, he wrote lyrics for several successful Hindi film songs in the 1950s and the 1960s