Mohammed Rafi's Death Anniversary

Mohammed Rafi, who passed away on 31 July 1980, aged 55, at Kotla Sultan Singh, near Amritsar, Punjab, British India, was a legendary playback singer who recorded more than 25,000 songs in a career spanning almost 40 years.

Rafi studied music with eminent Hindustani singer Chhote Gulam Ali Khan. He eventually came under the tutelage of composer and musical director Feroz Nizami. A public performance that Rafi gave in Lahore when he was about 15 proved to be a turning point in his life. In the audience was Shyam Sunder, an acclaimed composer who was impressed with Rafi’s talent and invited him to Bombay (now Mumbai) to sing in films. Rafi recorded his first song in Lahore for the Punjabi film Gul Baloch (1944). In Bombay Rafi had his first physical role in Laila Majnu (1949). His earliest recordings in Hindi, also in Bombay, were for films such as Gaon ki gori (1945), Samaj ko badal dalo (1947), and Jugnu (1947). The composer Naushad recognized the budding singer’s potential and gave Rafi his first solo song assignment, “Tera khilona toota balak” in Anmol Ghadi (1946), and later the song “Is duniya mein ae dilwalo” in Dillagi (1949), which proved to be a milestone in his singing career.

Rafi voiced songs for all the top stars of the day. His greatest gift was his ability to match his voice to the persona of the character played by the actor. Thus, he sounded the part for the romantic Dilip Kumar when he sang “Tere husn ki kya taarif karun” in Leader (1964), the soul of Guru Dutt in such songs as “Yeh duniya agar mil bhi jaaye to kya hai” in Pyaasa (1957), the irrepressible Shammi Kapoor singing “Yahoo” in Junglee (1961), and even the mischievous Johnny Walker offering a “Tel malish” (oil massage) in Pyaasa. His duets with other leading playback singers of Hindi cinema were equally memorable and popular.

Rafi’s voice had a phenomenal range that composers explored to great advantage. His oeuvre included such classical songs as “Madhuban mein radhika nache re” in Kohinoor (1960) and “O duniya ke rakhwale” in Baiju Bawra (1952), such ghazals as “Suhani raat dhal chuki” in Dulari (1949) and “Chaudhavin ka chand” in the eponymous 1960 film, stirring patriotic songs including “Jahan daal daal par” in the 1965 film Sikandar-e-azam, and such light numbers as the rock-and-roll-inspired “Aaja aaja main hoon pyaar tera” in Teesri Manzil (1966). His last recording was “Tu kahin aas paas hai dost” for the 1981 film Aas paas. In 1965 Rafi was awarded the Padma Shri, one of the Indian government’s highest civilian honours.

International Day of Friendship

The International Day of Friendship is observed on July 30. This day honours friends and their important role in improving our lives. Friends make life so much easier, whether they are going on a trip with us or are just listening to our issues and offering advice. Not only is their presence important during difficult times, but they also make a big difference when they join us in celebrating our victories and sharing our joy. One could say that living in the world without friends would be far more challenging.

History

The day was proclaimed in 2011 by the United Nations General Assembly. They wanted to promote the idea that "friendship between peoples, countries, cultures and individuals can inspire peace efforts and build bridges between communities." They said on the website, "The resolution places emphasis on involving young people, as future leaders, in community activities that include different cultures and promote international understanding and respect for diversity."

The UN encourages governments, international organisations, and civil society organisations to hold events, activities, and initiatives on International Day of Friendship that support global efforts to advance mutual understanding, reconciliation, solidarity, and a dialogue among civilizations.

Significance

According to the UN, we continue to face issues such as poverty, human rights abuses, and others that undermine security, development, social harmony, and peace among the people. By celebrating International Friendship Day, we must aim to establish strong ties of trust with each other to ensure that we together eradicate all those factors that threaten a peaceful future.

This initiative is also significant as it walks on the proposal made by UNESCO. The recommendation defines the culture of peace as a set of values, behaviours and attitudes so that it could reject violence and prevent conflicts by addressing their root causes.

International Tiger Day

International Tiger Day is celebrated on July 29, with a focus on raising awareness about tiger conservation and the urgent threats these majestic animals face, such as habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

History of International Tiger Day

Global Tiger Day, also known as International Tiger Day, was established in 2010 during the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit. This summit, held in St. Petersburg, Russia, was organised by the Global Tiger Initiative (GTI), which includes nations, international organisations, and conservation groups dedicated to tiger conservation. The Tiger Range Countries (TRCs), nations with wild tiger populations, gathered to address the alarming global decline in tiger numbers.

Recognising the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect these magnificent big cats and their habitats, the TRCs decided to dedicate a day each year to raise awareness about tiger conservation and the challenges it faces. They chose July 29 for International Tiger Day, marking the midpoint between the summit's first and last days, symbolising the ongoing global effort to save tigers.

International Tiger Day Significance

Tigers, the world's largest and most iconic big cats, are facing serious threats, and International Tiger Day is dedicated to raising awareness about their plight. On this day, people from all walks of life come together to emphasise the urgent need for tiger conservation. These magnificent animals are threatened by habitat destruction, poaching, and illegal wildlife trafficking, pushing them toward extinction. International Tiger Day seeks to rally collective efforts, garner public support, and promote sustainable initiatives to ensure the future of tigers. By highlighting the opportunities and challenges in tiger protection, the day aims to preserve our planet's biodiversity for future generations.

 

World Hepatitis Day

World Hepatitis Day, observed on 28 July, raises awareness of viral hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that causes severe liver disease and cancer.

The hepatitis virus comes in five primary strains: A, B, C, D, and E. The most prevalent illnesses, hepatitis B and C combined, cause 2.2 million new infections and 1.3 million deaths annually. 

Testing and treatment coverage rates have stagnated in spite of improved diagnostic and therapeutic instruments and declining product costs. However, if quick action is done now, achieving the WHO elimination target by 2030 should still be possible.

HISTORY:

One of the eight health days honoured annually is World Hepatitis Day, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

With about 33 crore people worldwide suffering from chronic hepatitis B or C, the yearly event strives to raise awareness of the devastation caused by hepatitis infection.

On October 1, 2004, Baby Muriel and many European and Middle Eastern patient groups organised the first-ever International Hepatitis C Awareness Day. Afterwards, many patient groups observed Hepatitis Day on various dates.

As a result, the World Hepatitis Alliance established the first-ever global World Hepatitis Day on May 19 in cooperation with patient organisations.

At the 63rd World Health Assembly in May 2010, a resolution was approved. The resolution decided to declare July 28 as World Hepatitis Day. More than 100 nations currently observe World Hepatitis Day annually.

WHY IS HEPATITIS DAY IMPORTANT?

Launched in 2008, the goal of World Hepatitis Day is to create partnerships for the elimination of viral hepatitis and to increase awareness of the disease's global burden. This day offers the chance to:

·  Educate the public on the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of viral hepatitis.

·   Urge countries to give financing and policy for hepatitis first priority.

·   Raise the voices of those impacted by viral hepatitis and those who are living with it.

·   Draw attention to the advancements made in the fight to eradicate viral hepatitis.

Death Anniversary of Dr. A.P.J. Kalam

 

A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who passed away on 27 July 2015, aged 83, was an Indian scientist and politician who played a leading role in the development of India’s missile and nuclear weapons programs. He was president of India from 2002 to 2007.

Kalam earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Madras Institute of Technology and in 1958 joined the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). In 1969 he moved to the Indian Space Research Organisation, where he was project director of the SLV-III, the first satellite launch vehicle that was both designed and produced in India. Rejoining DRDO in 1982, Kalam planned the program that produced a number of successful missiles, which helped earn him the nickname “Missile Man.” Among those successes was Agni, India’s first intermediate-range ballistic missile, which incorporated aspects of the SLV-III and was launched in 1989.

From 1992 to 1997 Kalam was scientific adviser to the defence minister, and he later served as principal scientific adviser (1999–2001) to the government with the rank of cabinet minister. His prominent role in the country’s 1998 nuclear weapons tests solidified India as a nuclear power and established Kalam as a national hero, although the tests caused great concern in the international community. In 1998 Kalam put forward a countrywide plan called Technology Vision 2020, which he described as a road map for transforming India from a less-developed to a developed society in 20 years. The plan called for, among other measures, increasing agricultural productivity, emphasizing technology as a vehicle for economic growth, and widening access to health care and education.

In 2002 India’s ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) put forward Kalam to succeed outgoing President Kocheril Raman Narayanan. Kalam was nominated by the Hindu nationalist (Hindutva) NDA even though he was Muslim, and his stature and popular appeal were such that even the main opposition party, the Indian National Congress, also proposed his candidacy. Kalam easily won the election and was sworn in as India’s 11th president, a largely ceremonial post, in July 2002. He left office at the end of his term in 2007 and was succeeded by Pratibha Patil, the country’s first woman president.

Upon returning to civilian life, Kalam remained committed to using science and technology to transform India into a developed country and served as a lecturer at several universities. On 27 July 2015, he collapsed while delivering a lecture at the Indian Institute of Management Shillong and was pronounced dead from cardiac arrest soon afterward.

Kalam wrote several books, including an autobiography, Wings of Fire (1999). Among his numerous awards were two of the country’s highest honours, the Padma Vibhushan (1990) and the Bharat Ratna (1997).

Kargil Vijay Diwas - 25th Anniversary

 

Kargil Vijay Diwas, celebrated every July 26 marks a significant moment in India's history—the victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil War. This day honours the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers who defended the nation’s sovereignty. On July 26, 2024, India commemorates the 25th anniversary of this historic event.

The Roots of Kargil Vijay Diwas

The history of Kargil Vijay Diwas dates back to the tumultuous period between India and Pakistan, which saw major conflicts, including the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. Despite signing the Lahore Declaration in February 1999, aimed at peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue, the peace was short-lived. Pakistani soldiers and militants infiltrated the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir in the winter of 1998-1999, occupying strategic positions to disrupt the link between Kashmir and Ladakh.

Operation Vijay and the Kargil War

In May 1999, the Indian Army discovered the infiltration, prompting the launch of Operation Vijay. The conflict, known as the Kargil War, involved intense battles in the challenging mountainous terrain of the Kargil district and along the Line of Control (LoC) from May to July 1999. The Indian Army successfully recaptured key positions, including Tiger Hill, after fierce fighting. The war culminated on July 26, 1999, with India securing victory but suffering significant casualties, losing nearly 490 personnel.

Significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas

Kargil Vijay Diwas is a powerful symbol of national unity and patriotism. The Kargil War brought together people from all corners of India, unified in their support for the Armed Forces. This collective spirit of resilience and solidarity continues to be celebrated on Kargil Vijay Diwas, fostering a sense of national pride among citizens. The stories of bravery and heroism from the war inspire future generations, instilling in them a sense of duty and dedication to the nation.

Celebrations Across the Nation

Kargil Vijay Diwas ensures that the sacrifices of Indian soldiers are not forgotten, serving as a solemn tribute to the heroes who defended the nation’s sovereignty. Commemorative events and ceremonies will be held nationwide, including rituals, educational activities, and memorial events to honour their bravery and sacrifice. The day fosters national pride and unity, reminding every Indian of the valour and dedication of the soldiers.

Heroes of the Kargil War

Several soldiers displayed extraordinary valour during the Kargil War. Captain Vikram Batra, known for his iconic declaration, "Ye dil mange more!" led his team to recapture Point 4875 even after being injured. He received the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey played a vital role in clearing enemy positions and was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his courage and leadership.

Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, who was just 19 years old, valiantly fought at Tiger Hill despite severe injuries and helped the Indian Army capture key enemy bunkers. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar showed immense bravery at Point 4875, fighting on despite multiple injuries. His pivotal actions earned him the Param Vir Chakra. Major Rajesh Adhikari led a mission to capture a bunker at Tololing and fought on with unwavering determination despite grievous wounds, earning the Maha Vir Chakra.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day of remembrance and national pride, honouring the sacrifices and valor of Indian soldiers. As the nation celebrates the 25th anniversary, it continues to inspire unity and patriotism, ensuring the legacy of the Kargil heroes endures.

The Kargil War, fought between India and Pakistan in 1999, was a high-altitude conflict that took place in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Pakistani forces had infiltrated the region, aiming to cut off the vital link between Kashmir and Ladakh. The Indian Army launched Operation Vijay to drive out the intruders and recapture strategic positions. The war saw intense battles over rugged terrain, with the Indian Army ultimately emerging victorious.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge's Death Anniversary

Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who passed away on 25 July 1834, aged 61, was an English poet, literary critic, philosopher, and theologian who was a founder of the Romantic Movement in England and a member of the Lake Poets with his friend William Wordsworth. He also shared volumes and collaborated with Charles Lamb, Robert Southey, and Charles Lloyd. 

He wrote the poems The Rime of the Ancient Mariner and Kubla Khan, as well as the major prose work Biographia Literaria. His critical works were highly influential, especially in relation to William Shakespeare, and he helped introduce German idealist philosophy to English-speaking cultures. Coleridge coined many familiar words and phrases, including "suspension of disbelief". He had a major influence on Ralph Waldo Emerson and American transcendentalism. Throughout his adult life, Coleridge had crippling bouts of anxiety and depression; it has been speculated that he had bipolar disorder, which had not been defined during his lifetime. He was physically unhealthy, which may have stemmed from a bout of rheumatic fever and other childhood illnesses. He was treated for these conditions with laudanum,  which fostered a lifelong opium addiction.

Coleridge had a turbulent career and personal life with a variety of highs and lows, but his public esteem grew after his death, and he became considered one of the most influential figures in English literature. For instance, a 2018 report by The Guardian labelled him "a genius" who had progressed into "one of the most renowned English poets." Organisations such as the Church of England celebrate his work during public events, such as a "Coleridge Day" in June, with activities including literary recitals.

Simón Bolívar's Birth Anniversary

 

Simón Bolívar, born on 24 July 1783, was a Venezuelan military and political leader. He led independence movements in several South American countries against their Spanish rulers. He is often called "El Libertador" (The Liberator) for his role in freeing much of South America from colonial control.

Bolívar was born into a wealthy family in Caracas, Venezuela. He lost his parents at a young age and was raised by tutors and slaves. His subsequent education in Europe exposed him to Enlightenment ideas, shaping his political views.

n 1805, Bolívar made a pivotal oath in Rome to free South America from Spanish rule. He began his military career in 1810, fighting for Venezuelan independence. Despite early setbacks, Bolívar persevered and gained victories.

Bolívar's military campaigns led to the liberation of Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. The country of Bolivia was named after him. His most notable battles included the Admirable Campaign of 1813 and the Battle of Carabobo in 1821.

While a skilled military leader, Bolívar also faced political challenges. He dreamed of a united Latin America but encountered unexpected opposition including regional rivalries. Over time, his leadership style eventually became more authoritarian.

Bolívar's personal life was marked by both tragedy and passion. His wife died young, and he later had a significant relationship with Manuela Sáenz, who once saved his life during an assassination attempt.

In his final years, Bolívar became disillusioned with his political vision and ultimately died in exile in 1830.

 

Bal Gangadhar Tilak's Birth Anniversary

Bal Gangadhar Tilak, born on 23 July 1856, Ratnagiri [now in Maharashtra state], Bombay [now Mumbai]) was a scholar, mathematician, philosopher, and ardent nationalist who helped lay the foundation for India’s independence by building his own defiance of British rule into a national movement. He founded (1914) and served as president of the Indian Home Rule League. In 1916 he concluded the Lucknow Pact with Mohammed Ali Jinnah, which provided for Hindu-Muslim unity in the nationalist struggle.

World Brain Day

World Brain Day, observed on July 22nd, serves as a global platform to raise awareness about brain health and neurological disorders.

History of World Brain Day

World Brain Day was initiated by the World Federation of Neurology (WFN) in 2014. The day aims to highlight the significance of brain health and the need for more research and funding in neurology. Each year, the day focuses on different neurological issues, from dementia and stroke to epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease.

Importance of World Brain Day

Raising Awareness: World Brain Day provides an opportunity to educate the public about brain health and neurological disorders. It highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms early and seeking timely medical intervention.

Advocacy for Research: By promoting the need for continued research, World Brain Day supports advancements in treatments and potential cures for neurological diseases. Increased funding and research can lead to better management strategies and improved patient outcomes.

Supporting Affected Individuals: The day brings together patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to share experiences and provide support. It fosters a sense of community and shared purpose among those affected by neurological conditions.

Policy and Planning: World Brain Day can influence policymakers to prioritize brain health in public health agendas. Advocacy efforts may lead to improved healthcare policies and increased funding for neurological research.

National Flag of India in its present form adopted in 1947

 

The National Flag of India was adopted in its present form during the meeting of the Constituent Assembly held on 22 July 1947.

The version of the flag closest to the current one came into existence in 1923. It was designed by Pingali Venkayya and had saffron, white and green stripes with the spinning wheel placed in the white section. It was hoisted on 13 April 1923 in Nagpur during an event commemorating the Jallianwallah Bagh Massacre. It was named the Swaraj Flag and became the symbol of India's demand for Self-rule led by the Indian National Congress.

The resolution to adopt the tricolour as the National Flag of India was passed in 1931. On 22 July 1947, the Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Swaraj Flag as the National Flag of Sovereign India with the Ashok Chakra replacing the spinning wheel.

Lord's hosts its first-ever Test match in 1884

 

The Mecca of Cricket, Lord's Cricket Ground has been an iconic venue in the history of the sport. Established in 1814, the Lord's was the leading sports venue for visiting teams who played against England over the years.

On July 21, 1884 a visiting Australian team took on Lord Harris' lead England team at the iconic venue hosting its first-ever Test match.

England won the Test by an innings and 3 runs against Bill Murdoch-led Australian side. Australia managed only 229 in their first innings after which a big hundred (148) from Allan Steel helped England take a 150-run lead. England then bundled Australia out for 145 with George Ullyet picking up 7 wickets in the 2nd innings.

In this historic Test, the first-ever substitute catch was also taken as Australia captain Billy Murdoch, who fielded for England, took the catch of his teammate Tup Scott of Allan Steel's bowling.

Gangubai Hangal's Death Anniversary

Gangubai Hangal, who passed away on 21 July 2009, in Hubballi, Karnataka, India, aged 96, was an Indian vocalist in the Hindustani (North Indian) classical tradition and doyenne of the Kirana gharana (community of performers who share a distinctive musical style). She was especially admired for her performances of songs of the khayal genre over the course of a career that spanned nearly seven decades.

Hangal’s reputation as a virtuoso started to rise in the mid-1930s, when she began to make recordings and perform more frequently outside her immediate community.

By the early 1940s, she had become a well-known figure in Hindustani music as a result of her broadcasts on All India Radio and her busy schedule of concert appearances across the country. Initially, she sang bhajans, or Hindu devotional songs, light Marathi-language songs, and semiclassical songs known as thumris, as well as khayal classical songs. By the mid-1940s, however, she had shifted her focus almost fully to khayal.

Hangal’s vocal quality, sensitivity to pitch and melody, and technical proficiency were among the most remarkable features of her style. She sang with a distinctively bold, almost masculine, tone. She typically introduced the melodic framework—the raga—of each piece gradually, so that the audience could savour and recognize the importance of each pitch. Impeccably intoned and ornamented passages of improvisation using solmization syllables also figured prominently in her performances.

For her contribution to Indian classical music, Hangal received several honours. In 1973 she received the Sangeet Natak Akademi (India’s national academy of music, dance, and drama) award. Hangal was also awarded the Padma Bhushan (1971) and the Padma Vibhushan (2002), two of India’s highest civilian honours.

 

Ernest Hemingway's Birth Anniversary

 

Ernest Hemingway, born on 21 July 1899, in Cicero [now in Oak Park], was an American novelist and short-story writer, awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1954. He was noted both for the intense masculinity of his writing and for his adventurous and widely publicized life. His succinct and lucid prose style exerted a powerful influence on American and British fiction in the 20th century.

Hemingway started his career as a writer in a newspaper office in Kansas City at the age of seventeen. After the United States entered the First World War, he joined a volunteer ambulance unit in the Italian army. Serving at the front, he was wounded, was decorated by the Italian Government, and spent considerable time in hospitals. After his return to the United States, he became a reporter for Canadian and American newspapers and was soon sent back to Europe to cover such events as the Greek Revolution.

During the twenties, Hemingway became a member of the group of expatriate Americans in Paris, which he described in his first important work, The Sun Also Rises (1926). Equally successful was A Farewell to Arms (1929), the study of an American ambulance officer’s disillusionment in the war and his role as a deserter. Hemingway used his experiences as a reporter during the civil war in Spain as the background for his most ambitious novel, For Whom the Bell Tolls (1940). Among his later works, the most outstanding is the short novel, The Old Man and the Sea (1952), the story of an old fisherman’s journey, his long and lonely struggle with a fish and the sea, and his victory in defeat.

Hemingway – himself a great sportsman – liked to portray soldiers, hunters, bullfighters – tough, at times primitive people whose courage and honesty are set against the brutal ways of modern society, and who in this confrontation lose hope and faith. His straightforward prose, his spare dialogue, and his predilection for understatement are particularly effective in his short stories, some of which are collected in Men Without Women (1927) and The Fifth Column and the First Forty-Nine Stories (1938). Hemingway died in Idaho in 1961.

Bruce Lee's Death Anniversary

 

Bruce Lee, who passed away on 20 July 1973, in Hong Kong, aged 32, was an American-born film actor who was renowned for his martial arts prowess and who helped popularize martial arts movies in the 1970s.

Lee was born in San Francisco, but he grew up in Hong Kong. He was introduced to the entertainment industry at an early age, as his father was an opera singer and part-time actor. The younger Lee began appearing in films as a child and was frequently cast as a juvenile delinquent or street urchin. As a teenager, he took up with local gangs and began learning kung fu to better defend himself. At that time he also started dance lessons, which further refined his footwork and balance; in 1958 Lee won the Hong Kong cha-cha championship.

Lee’s parents were increasingly disturbed by his street fighting and run-ins with the police, and they sent him to live in the United States shortly after he turned 18. He lived with family friends in Seattle, where he finished high school and studied philosophy and drama at the University of Washington. While in Seattle he opened his first martial arts school, and in 1964 he relocated to Oakland, California, to found a second school. It was about that time that he developed his own technique—jeet kune do, a blend of ancient kung fu, fencing, boxing, and philosophy—which he began teaching instead of traditional martial arts. He drew the attention of a television producer after giving a kung fu demonstration at a Los Angeles -area karate tournament, and he was cast as the sidekick Kato in the television series The Green Hornet (1966–67).

Lee had difficulty finding acting jobs after the cancellation of The Green Hornet, and he began supplementing his income by giving private jeet kune do lessons to Hollywood stars, including Steve McQueen.  In the 1969 film Marlowe, Lee received notice for a scene in which he destroyed an entire office through kickboxing and karate moves. Troubled by his inability to find other suitable roles, however, he moved back to Hong Kong in 1971. There Lee starred in two films that broke box-office records throughout Asia, and he later found success in the United States with Tang shan da xiong (1971; Fists of Fury [U.S.], or The Big Boss [Hong Kong English title]) and Jing wu men (1972; The Chinese Connection [U.S.], or Fist of Fury [Hong Kong English title]).

Lee used his sudden box-office clout to form his own production company, and he coproduced, directed, wrote, and starred in his next film, Meng long guo jiang (1972; Return of the Dragon [U.S.], or The Way of the Dragon [Hong Kong English title]). Lee’s following film, Enter The Dragon (1973), was the first joint venture between Hong Kong- and U.S.-based production companies, and it became a worldwide hit, thrusting Lee into international movie stardom. Tragically, he died six days before the film’s Hong Kong release. The mysterious circumstances of his death were a source of speculation for fans and historians, but the cause of death was officially listed as swelling of the brain caused by an allergic reaction to a headache medication. At the time, Lee had been working on a film called Game of Death, which was pieced together with stand-ins and cardboard cutouts of Lee’s face and was released in 1978.

After Lee’s death, his films gained a large cult following. Lee himself became one of the biggestpop culture icons of the 20th century, and he is often credited with changing the way Asians were presented in American films. A slightly fictionalized biopic, Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story, appeared in 1993. His son, Brandon, followed Lee into acting, and he died after being shot with a misloaded prop gun while filming The Crow (1994).

 

Edmund Hillary's Birth Anniversary

 

Edmund Hillary, born on 20 July 1919, was a New Zealand mountain climber and Antarctic explorer, who with the Tibetan mountaineer Tenzing Norgay was the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest (29,035 feet [8,850 metres]; the highest mountain in the world.

Hillary’s father was a beekeeper, an occupation he also pursued. He began climbing in New Zealand’s Southern Alps while in high school. After military service in World War II, he resumed climbing and became determined to scale Everest. In 1951 he joined a New Zealand party to the central Himalayas and later that year participated in a British reconnaissance expedition of the southern flank of Everest. He was subsequently invited to join the team of mountaineers planning to climb the peak.

The well-organized expedition was launched in the spring of 1953, and a high camp from which to mount attempts at the summit was established by mid-May. After a pair of climbers failed to reach the top on May 27, Hillary and Tenzing set out for it early on May 29; by late morning they were standing on the summit. The two shook hands, then Tenzing embraced his partner. Hillary took photographs, and both searched for signs that George Mallory, a British climber lost on Everest in 1924, had been on the summit. Hillary left behind a crucifix, and Tenzing, a Buddhist, made a food offering. After spending about 15 minutes on the peak, they began their descent.  They were met back at camp by their colleague W.G. Lowe, to whom Hillary reputedly said, “Well, George, we knocked the bastard off.” Hillary described his exploits in High Adventure (1955). He made other expeditions to the Everest region during the early 1960s but never again tried to climb to the top.

 

 

World Jump Day

World Jump Day is celebrated on July 20th every year. It was created in 2013 by the World Jump Day Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting physical activity and well-being. The purpose of World Jump Day is to encourage people of all ages to get up and jump around. Jumping is a great way to get exercise, relieve stress, and have fun. It can also help to improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength.

World Jump Day History

·   World Jump Day was created by German artist Torsten Lauschmann from the United Kingdom.

·    The first event took place on July 20th, 2006.

·  Lauschmann created a website to promote the day and had over 600 million registered jumpers.

·   The idea behind World Jump Day was to change Earth's orbit by having enough people jump simultaneously.

·    The goal was to reduce global warming, although the concept was unscientific.

·   Despite the lack of scientific basis, World Jump Day continues to be celebrated by millions worldwide.

·  World Jump Day promotes physical activity and raises awareness of global warming.

·   The World Jump Day Foundation was founded in 2013 to organize and promote World Jump Day events.

·    World Jump Day is celebrated on July 20th annually.

·   Celebrations can involve activities like jumping rope, playing jumping games, and engaging in general jumping exercises.

 

10 Benefits of Jumping

Jumping, whether it's in the form of jumping exercises, trampolining, or simply jumping for fun, offers several benefits for physical health, mental well-being, and overall fitness. Here are some of the benefits of jumping:

1.     Improves cardiovascular health and strengthens the heart.

2.     Increases bone density and helps prevent osteoporosis.

3.     Enhances coordination, balance, and agility.

4.     Boosts mood and releases endorphins, promoting a sense of happiness and well-being.

5.     Burns calories and aids in weight management.

6.     Stimulates lymphatic circulation and detoxification.

7.     Strengthens muscles, particularly in the legs and core.

8.     Improves motor skills and proprioception.

9.     Increases energy levels and reduces fatigue.

10.  Provides a low-impact exercise option that is gentle on the joints.

International Moon Day

Every year July 20 is observed as International Moon Day all over the globe. The day celebrates the first landing by humans on the Moon as part of the Apollo 11 lunar mission. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the Moon in a location that they then named Tranquillity Base on the same day.

Why is International Moon Day celebrated?

According to the official website, “The Moon Village Association submitted an application during the UN-COPUOS 64th Session, for the proclamation of International Moon Day on July 20, the anniversary of the 1969 first human landing, from the United States of America, with the Apollo 11 mission. The proclamation got approved on December 9 2021, by the UN General Assembly.”

In its resolution 76/76 on "International cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space" in 2021, the General Assembly recognised July 20 as International Moon Day, a United Nations-approved international holiday.

The celebrations will also take into account the accomplishments of all States in lunar exploration and increase public awareness of environmentally friendly lunar exploration and utilisation.

What is the significance of International Moon Day?

In collaboration with UNOOSA, International Moon Day became an annual celebration all around the world. As per Moon Village Association, International Moon Day is an opportunity to inform the public, promote, and raise each year, at the global level, awareness of the situation and prospects for humanity, the sustainable Moon Exploration and Utilisation, and the need to act jointly to regulate activities on and around the Moon.

International Moon Day serves as a reminder that space exploration is still taking place today, in addition to its historical significance. Technology has made amazing strides during the past 50 years, allowing us to travel farther into space than ever before. This worldwide celebration will serve as both a testament to past achievements and an ongoing reminder of the ambitious goals for future Moon exploration missions. With the blessing of the UN, this event will promote more global cooperation between global stakeholders as well as increase the participation of the next generation in achieving this aim.

 

International Chess Day

 

International Chess Day, celebrated annually on July 20, honours the ancient chess game and its global impact. Recognised by UNESCO since 1966, this day promotes chess as a tool for education, the development of logical thinking, and cultural exchange.

It commemorates the founding of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) in 1924, emphasising chess as a unifying force across cultures and generations. Celebrations typically include tournaments, exhibitions, and educational events worldwide, highlighting chess’s role in fostering strategic thought, sportsmanship, and community engagement. 

International Chess Day: Significance

• International Chess Day acknowledges the universal appeal of the game and honours its ability to transcend cultural and language barriers.
• It also has the ability to bring people together with a shared passion.
• The game of chess helps promotes cognitive skills, critical thinking, and concentration. 
• International Chess Day highlights the importance of fair play, respect for opponents, and the value of competition for growth.
• The complexities of chess can help face challenges in life and improve decision-making skills. 
• Chess can teach valuable life lessons such as patience, resilience, and the ability to learn from mistakes.