World Ozone Day

World Ozone Day or International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is a global event held annually on September 16 to promote awareness about the ozone layer's significance and the dangers of its depletion. 

History of World Ozone Day

The date of the world ozone significantly goes to the 1980s when scientists realized that there was a reduction in the ozone layer due to certain human-made chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and halons. This dire realization led to concern about the impacts that might ensue from the depletion of the ozone layer on man as well as the environment.

In response, the Montreal Protocol was signed on the 16th of September, 1987 aimed at eliminating production of the ODS. The protocol has been ratified by all the member states thus placing it among the most successful environmental conventions in history.

 

Significance of the Ozone Layer

The ozone layer is a thin shield of gas in the Earth's stratosphere that absorbs most of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It plays a crucial role in protecting life on Earth by preventing excessive UV radiation from reaching the surface, which can lead to higher rates of skin cancer, eye cataracts, and ecosystem damage.

 

International Day of Democracy

The International Day of Democracy observed every year on 15 September provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere. Democracy, in both theory and practice, is the subject of a huge field of literature. Within this literature, the international dimensions of democracy are increasingly understood and explored. Democracy has even come to be seen by some practitioners as something of a political panacea. It is widely accepted as a universal value. Yet the role of the United Nations – the embodiment of international society – in the promotion of democracy remains understudied, even though the organization has adopted democracy promotion as an important objective ‘‘The phenomenon of democratization’’ has had a marked impact on the United Nations. Just as newly-independent States turned to the United Nations for support during the era of decolonization, so today, following another wave of accessions to Statehood and political independence, Member States are turning to the United Nations for support in democratization.

Hindi Day or Hindi Divas

 

Hindi Day (Hindi: हिन्दी दिवस, romanized: hindī divas) is celebrated in India to commemorate the date 14 September 1949 on which a compromise was reached—during the drafting of the Constitution of India —on the languages that were to have official status in the Republic of India. The compromise, usually called the Munshi-Ayyangar formula, after drafting committee members K.M. Munshi and N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar, was voted by the Constituent Assembly of India after three years of debate between two opposing camps. The Hindi protagonists wanted Modern Standard Hindi register of the Hindustani language in Devnagiri script to be the sole "national language" of India (replacing the British era Hindustani of Perso-Arabic script); the delegates from South India preferred English to have a place in the Constitution. The Munshi-Ayyangar formula declared (i) Hindi to be the "official language" of India's federal government; (ii) English to be an associate official language for 15 years during which Hindi's formal lexicon would be developed; and (iii) the international form of the Hindu-Arabic numerals to be the official numerals. The compromise resolution became articles 343–351 of India's constitution, which came into effect on 26 January 1950. In 1965, when the 15 years were up, the Government of India announced that English would continue to be the "de facto formal language of India."

 

Shane Warne's Birth Anniversary

Shane Warne, born on 13 September 1969, in Ferntree Gully, Victoria, Australia, was an Australian cricketer who was one of the most effective bowlers in history, with good disguise on his top-spinner and fine control on two or three different googlies (balls bowled with fingerspin that break unexpectedly in the opposite direction from that anticipated). His success promoted the almost-forgotten art of leg-spin and brought variety to a sport that had been dominated by fast bowling. In 2006 he became the first bowler to take 700 Test wickets.

Warne came to cricket relatively late in his teenage years, and his relaxed manner, bleached hair, stud earring, and fondness for surfing made him a folk hero among young cricket fans around the world. He had played just seven matches in the Sheffield Shield domestic club competition before being selected for Ausrtralia, and he made his Test debut against India at Sydney in 1991–92. In the 1993 Ashes series against England, Warne took 34 wickets in six Tests at an average of 25.79. He was perhaps best remembered for one ball, bowled to England’s Mike Gatting at Old Trafford, Manchester, in the 1993 series. The ball was a perfect example of the leg-spinner’s art, pitching on leg stump and spinning viciously past the bat to hit Gatting’s off stump. It was Warne’s first ball in a Test in England and established a huge psychological advantage for Warne and the Australian team, which lasted into the next Ashes series in 1994–95. In that series Warne took 27 wickets at 20.33, including a match-winning 8 for 71 in the second innings of the first Test and a hat trick (three wickets on three balls) in the second Test.

In 1998 Warne faced controversy when it was revealed that he and fellow Australian cricketer Mark Waugh had taken bribes from an Indian bookmaker four years earlier. The pair claimed they gave only pitch information and weather forecasts. (The two were secretly fined by the Australian Cricket Board soon after the bribes were given.) Despite the scandal, Warne was named one of the Five Cricketers of the Century by Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack in 2000. In February 2003 Warne encountered further controversy when he was ejected from the World Cup in South Africa after a drug test revealed the presence of a banned diuretic; he subsequently received a 12-month ban. In his first Test match after his return in March 2004, he took his 500th wicket, becoming just the second bowler to have accomplished the feat. By the end of the 2003–04 season, both Warne and Sri Lankan off-spin bowler Muttiah Muralitharan had broken the record (519) for Test wickets set in 2001 by Courtney Walsh of the West Indies.

In 2007 Warne retired from Test cricket but continued to compete on the club level until 2011. His international career totals included an unprecedented 708 Test wickets; his record was broken by Muralitharan in 2007.

 

World Dolphin Day

 

World Dolphin Day is an international awareness day that is celebrated annually on September 12th. It was created by Sea Shepherd Global, an international marine conservation organization that has been fighting to defend dolphins and other marine wildlife for over 40 years.

The date of World Dolphin Day was chosen to commemorate the anniversary of the largest single slaughter of dolphins in recorded history. On September 12, 2021, an unprecedented white-sided dolphin hunt took place in the Faroe Islands: 1, 428 dolphins were caught and killed in a single day, including juveniles and pregnant females. This was nearly five times the average annual catch of white-sided dolphins in the Faroe Islands.

What are the main threats to dolphins?

Dolphins face many dangers from human activities that harm their health, habitat, and population. Some of the main threats are:

Hunting: Dolphins are hunted for their meat, skin, oil, or teeth in some parts of the world, such as Japan, Peru, Solomon Islands, and Faroe Islands. The hunting methods are often cruel and indiscriminate, causing immense suffering and killing large numbers of dolphins at once.
Bycatch: Dolphins are often caught accidentally in fishing nets or hooks, where they suffocate or drown. According to some estimates, more than 300,000 cetaceans (including dolphins and whales) die every year as bycatch.
Pollution: Dolphins are exposed to various pollutants that contaminate their water and food sources, such as plastics, chemicals, heavy metals, and noise. These pollutants can cause injuries, infections, diseases, reproductive problems, and behavioural changes in dolphins.
Habitat destruction: Dolphins depend on healthy and diverse marine habitats for their survival. However, human activities such as coastal development, oil and gas exploration, mining, and climate change are destroying or degrading their habitats, reducing their food availability and quality.

There are many ways we can help dolphins and make a difference in their future. By reducing waste and pollution, we can work on an eco-friendly lifestyle that is already a big step in helping marine life. We can also stop using plastic bags and grab our own eco bags when we shop.

Vinobha Acharya Birth Anniversary

 

Vinoba Bhave, born on 11 September 1895, in Gagode, Bombay Presidency [now in Maharashtra], India, was one of India’s best-known social reformers and a widely venerated disciple of Mohandas K. (Mahatma) Gandhi. Bhave was the founder of the Bhoodan Yajna (“Land-Gift Movement”).

Born of a high-caste Brahman family, he abandoned his high school studies in 1916 to join Gandhi’s ashram (ascetic community) at Sabarmati, near Ahmadabad. Gandhi’s teachings led Bhave to a life of austerity dedicated to improving Indian village life. Bhave was imprisoned several times during the 1920s and ’30s and served a five-year prison sentence in the ’40s for leading nonviolent resistance to British rule. He was given the honorific title acharya (“teacher”).

Bhave’s idea of the land-gift movement was conceived in 1951, while he was touring villages in the province of Andhra Pradesh, when a landholder offered him an acreage in response to his appeal on behalf of a group of landless Dalits (members of the lowest castes, formerly called “untouchables” and now officially named Scheduled Castes). He then walked from village to village, appealing for gifts of land to be distributed among the landless and relating the act of giving to the principle of ahimsa (nonviolence), which had been adopted by Gandhi. According to Bhave, land reform should be secured by a change of heart and not by enforced government action. His critics maintained that Bhudan Yajna encouraged the fragmentation of land and would thus obstruct a rational approach to large-scale agriculture, but Bhave declared that he preferred fragmented land to fragmented hearts. Later, however, he encouraged gramdan—i.e., the system whereby villagers pooled their land, after which the land was reorganized under a cooperative system.

Throughout 1975 Bhave took a vow of silence over the issue of the involvement of his followers in political agitation. As a result of a fast in 1979, he secured the government’s promise to enforce the law prohibiting the killing of cows (animals sacred to Hinduism) throughout India. Bhave’s original project and his philosophy of life are explained in a series of articles collected and published as Bhoodan Yajna (1953, reprinted 1957).

 

World Suicide Prevention Day

World Suicide Prevention Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating impact of suicide and the steps we can take to prevent it, is observed on September 10 annually.

This initiative, spearheaded by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Association for Suicide Prevention, aims to transform how we perceive suicide, breaking the silence and stigma surrounding it.

Significance

Suicide is a significant public health issue, claiming more than 7,00,000 lives each year globally. The ripple effects of each suicide are profound, with far-reaching social, emotional, and economic consequences that touch families, communities, and societies at large. Despite the scale of the problem, suicide remains shrouded in silence and stigma, often preventing individuals from seeking the help they need.

History

Established in 2003 by the International Association for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with WHO, World Suicide Prevention Day serves as a vital platform to focus global attention on suicide prevention. It aims to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and promote the message that suicides are preventable. This day is a reminder that by working together, we can save lives and create a world where everyone feels valued and supported.

Himalaya Day

 

Each year, on September 9th, the world observes Himalaya Day, also known as Himalaya Diwas. This annual celebration has a profound purpose: the preservation of the unique Himalayan ecosystem and the broader Himalayan region. The Himalayas are not only natural protectors against adverse weather conditions but also teeming reservoirs of biodiversity. Beyond their environmental significance, Himalaya Day serves as a platform to raise awareness among the public and foster community involvement in conservation activities.

History of Himalaya Day

Himalaya Day’s official recognition on September 9th traces back to 2014 when Harish Rawat, the former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, initiated this observance. The concept of Himalaya Day was born out of the collaborative efforts of Anil Joshi from the Himalayan Environmental Studies and Conservation Organization and other dedicated Indian environmentalists. Their vision was to observe Himalaya Diwas on September 9th across all Himalayan states in India, from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, uniting them through their shared Himalayan socio-ecology.

While September 9th may lack significant historical relevance in the environmental or socio-cultural context of the Himalayan states, its choice may be attributed to certain natural disasters. The devastating monsoon of August 2010 and the catastrophic Kedarnath events in 2013 laid bare the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem, potentially serving as the impetus for the establishment of Himalaya Diwas to address these critical concerns.

Significance of Himalaya Day

Himalaya Day carries immense significance as it highlights the importance of the Himalayan region. Hill cities within the Himalayas confront numerous challenges, including inadequate urban planning, insufficient infrastructure such as roads and water supply, and rampant deforestation. These issues have far-reaching ecological consequences.

The observance of this day underscores the urgent necessity for eco-sensitive urban planning and design in Himalayan hill cities. The Himalayas are not only a source of strength but also a global heritage that demands preservation. Beyond promoting scientific knowledge, Himalaya Day serves as a call to action, raising awareness and encouraging community engagement in conservation efforts.

 

International Literacy Day

 

International Literacy Day, marked annually on September 8, is a UNESCO initiative that emphasises the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a matter of dignity. Since 1967, the day has served as a reminder of the global need to promote literacy and work towards building more literate and sustainable societies. It raises awareness about the essential role of literacy in empowering individuals and fostering societal development.

International Literacy Day: History

Literacy Day originated at the World Conference of Ministers of Education held in Tehran in 1965. However, it was in 1966 that UNESCO officially declared September 8 as International Literacy Day. At the time, the world was grappling with major challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and inadequate healthcare. In 2015, the observance of this day became part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) program, highlighting the vital role of literacy in global development.

International Literacy Day: Significance

As per UNESCO, “literacy is the best cure,” and it is the key to ensuring that every individual has the right to education. Each year, UNESCO highlights different aspects of literacy in a changing world through varied themes. This year, the organization focuses on addressing literacy challenges in multilingual contexts to promote lasting peace.

It also explores solutions for improving policies, lifelong learning systems, governance, and practices. Furthermore, literacy is a key pillar of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly in Sustainable Development Goal 4.

World Beard Day - 1st Saturday of September

 

World Beard Day is celebrated annually on an international level with people from every nation and continent gathering together with their beards. It is held on the first Saturday of September and is characterised by the happiness of all people being with their beards and with each other.

On World Beard Day, it is customary for the bearded members of a family to relax and partake in no jobs or chores. The beardless members of the family traditionally show their support by waiting on the bearded hand and foot. World Beard Day is all about promoting and elevating the global status of the beard. Whilst many countries and cities practice World Beard Day customs specific to their own region, shaving on World Beard Day is universally considered to be highly disrespectful.

World Beard Day Facts

– In southern Spain, many townships gather to witness a boxing match between a bearded man and a beardless boy. The bearded man, normally armed with a sharp pike, is typically the victor.

– In the Swedish village of Dönskborg, anyone without a beard is banished from the town and forced to spend twenty-four hours in a nearby forest. Back in the town, the hirsute burn effigies of their clean-chinned loved ones.

– The exact origins of World Beard Day are unknown, but there is some evidence to suggest that Danish Vikings had a special day dedicated to the glorification of beards as far back as 800 AD. The event was not held on a fixed date, and was often celebrated hundreds of times each year. This early incarnation of what would one day become World Beard Day typically involved the ransacking of neighbouring towns, villages and countries by large groups of heavily-armed bearded men.

– Throughout the world, bearded communities are encouraged to acknowledge this sacred day by organising and staging their own public or private World Beard Day celebrations. These can consist of anything from a relaxing family lunch to a lavish, tax payer-funded street parade.

– Shaving on World Beard Day is universally considered to be highly disrespectful.

 

Eswatini Independence Day

 

On September 6, the Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) people come together to celebrate Independence Day, or Somhlolo Day as they call it in honor of the nation's founder King Sobhuza I who ruled between 1805 and 1839 and was nicknamed "Somhlolo," meaning "Wonder" in the Swazi language.

Eswatini Independence Day is a national holiday observed annually to commemorate its independence from the UK in 1968.

The history of the second smallest country in continental Africa at the moment dates back to 1836, when King Somhlolo defeated Zulu tribes and introduced a centralized system of his power, subordinating other chiefs, and effectively created the Swazi state.

The next Swazi king, Mswati I, annexed new lands in the north of the country in the late 1830s and created a state with more than twice the area of the present-day Eswatini.

However, in 1894, the country could not escape the invasive aspirations of the colonizers and fell under the protectorate of the neighbouring Boer Republic of Transvaal.

After the Anglo-Boer War, which took place in 1899-1902, the victorious British Empire declared Swaziland its protectorate, preserving the power of local kings and chiefs.

Under the protectorate, Swaziland approached self-government and independence in an evolutionary way.

In 1921, Swaziland’s first legislature was established. It consisted of elected white representatives whose task was to advise the British Resident Commissioner on non-Swazi matters.

In the same year, King Sobhuza II became head of the Swazi. After World War II, Sobhuza, with the support of traditional Swazi leaders, created the Imbokodwo National Movement, which defended the traditional Swazi way of life.

The drive for independence gathered momentum in 1964 with the adoption of Swaziland's first constitution. This was followed in 1967 by a new constitution providing for self-government after independence.

Finally, on September 6, 1968, Swaziland gained independence from the United Kingdom. 

 

Teachers' Day - India

 

India observes Teachers' Day, each year on September 5 to honour educators and their priceless contributions to society. One of India's most notable statesmen, philosophers, and scholars, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, is essential to the story of this celebration. The history of how September 5th, his birthday, became Teachers' Day is both enlightening and inspirational.

Who Was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. He was a brilliant student who later became a renowned scholar, specialising in Indian philosophy and comparative religion. His academic achievements earned him respect both in India and abroad, and he served as a professor of philosophy at several prestigious institutions, including the University of Calcutta and the University of Oxford.

Radhakrishnan was not only a scholar but also a diplomat and a statesman. He served as India’s first Vice President from 1952 to 1962 and as the second President of India from 1962 to 1967. Despite his numerous achievements, Radhakrishnan remained deeply committed to education and the role of teachers in shaping the future of the nation. His life and work have left an indelible mark on Indian society and continue to inspire educators and students alike.

The Birth of Teachers' Day in India

The story of how Radhakrishnan's birthday became Teachers' Day is a testament to his humility and respect for the teaching profession. When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President of India in 1962, some of his former students and friends approached him to request permission to celebrate his birthday on September 5th. They wanted to honour their beloved teacher and his contributions to the nation.

In response, Dr. Radhakrishnan humbly suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be more appropriate if September 5th were observed as Teachers' Day across the country. He believed that the day should be dedicated to recognizing the vital role that teachers play in society and the immense responsibility they carry in nurturing the minds of the future.

Dr. Radhakrishnan's reply was a reflection of his deep respect for the teaching profession and his belief in the power of education to transform lives. 

He saw teachers as the true architects of society, and his suggestion was embraced with enthusiasm by the nation. Since then, September 5th has been celebrated as Teachers' Day in India, a day to honour and appreciate the dedication and hard work of teachers.

Significance of Teachers' Day in India

Teachers' Day holds a special place in the hearts of students and educators across India. It is a day when students express their gratitude to their teachers through various gestures, including giving cards, flowers, and gifts, and organising special programs in schools and colleges. Many schools hold cultural performances and activities where students take on the roles of their teachers, further strengthening the bond between them.

In conclusion, Teachers' Day is not just a day of celebration but also a day of reflection. It is an opportunity to acknowledge the challenges that teachers face and the significant impact they have on shaping the future of the nation. Teachers play a crucial role in moulding young minds, instilling values, and fostering a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom.

Dadabhai Naoroji's Birth Anniversary

Dadabhai Naoroji, born on 4 September 1825, in Bombay [now Mumbai], India, was an Indian nationalist and critic of British economic policy in India.

Educated at Elphinstone College, Bombay (now Mumbai), he was professor of mathematics and natural philosophy there before turning to politics and a career in commerce that took him to England, where he spent much of his life.

He stood unsuccessfully for election to Parliament in 1886. In 1892, however, he was elected Liberal member of Parliament for Central Finsbury, London. He became widely known for his unfavourable opinion of the economic consequences of British rule in India and was appointed a member of the royal commission on Indian expenditure in 1895. In 1886, 1893, and 1906 he also presided over the annual sessions of the Indian National Congress, which led the nationalist movement in India. In the session of 1906, his conciliatory tactics helped to postpone the impending split between moderates and extremists in the Congress Party. In his many writings and speeches and especially in Poverty and Un-British Rule in India (1901), Naoroji argued that India was too highly taxed and that its wealth was being drained away to England.

 

World Skyscraper Day

 

World Skyscraper Day, celebrated every year on September 3, is a tribute to the breathtaking structures that have transformed the cities. These structures are testaments to human creativity, engineering prowess and an unwavering drive to reach for the skies. Let’s take a look at its history, significance and some interesting facts.

The World Skyscraper Day has its roots in the history of modern skyscrapers. The date was decided to commemorate the birthday of Louis H. Sullivan, an American architect also known as the Father of Skyscrapers. His work includes stunning designs and layouts. He designed some of America’s most iconic structures, including the Wainwright Building, Union Trust Building and Prudential Building.

Significance

Today, structures at least 150 meters or 465 feet tall are referred to as skyscrapers, symbolizing wealth and stature. The day holds an important significance, especially in the US, as it commemorates the engineering marvels that the world witnesses today. Earlier, the United States enjoyed the world’s monopoly on skyscrapers, accounting for nearly all of the tallest structures.

World Coconut Day

 

Coconut, often hailed as nature’s most versatile fruit, offers numerous benefits, from nutrition to skincare. Celebrated annually on September 2, World Coconut Day highlights the significance of coconut in our lives and promotes sustainable farming practices. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the diverse uses of coconuts and encouraging their consumption worldwide.

World Coconut Day: History and Significance

World Coconut Day, first celebrated in 2009, was established by the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), an intergovernmental organisation under the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific.

The APCC, representing 19 coconut-producing countries in the Asia-Pacific region, chose September 2 for this annual observance to commemorate the organisation’s founding in 1969. Each year, the International Coconut Community sets a theme for the day which aims at highlighting the importance and health benefits related to coconuts.

This day is celebrated to raise awareness about the many health benefits of coconut. Not just nutritional importance, this fruit also has an economic impact, especially in tropical regions.

Uses of Coconut

Coconut Water: The clear liquid inside young coconuts is a refreshing drink rich in electrolytes, making it a popular natural beverage for hydration.

Coconut Milk: Extracted from grated coconut meat, coconut milk is widely used in cooking, especially in curries, soups, and desserts, adding a rich, creamy texture.

Coconut Oil: Used for cooking, skincare, and hair care, coconut oil is prized for its moisturizing properties and is a common ingredient in beauty products.

Coconut Meat: The white flesh of the coconut can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in various culinary dishes, including sweets, snacks, and baked goods.

Coconut Flour: Made from dried, ground coconut meat, coconut flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour used in baking.

Coconut Sugar: Derived from the sap of the coconut palm, coconut sugar is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar.

Coir: The fibrous husk of the coconut is used to make coir, which is utilized in producing ropes, mats, brushes, and even eco-friendly potting soil.

Activated Charcoal: Coconut shells are often used to produce activated charcoal, which is used in air and water purification, as well as in health products.

Coconut Shell Crafts: The hard shell of the coconut is used to create decorative items, utensils, and handicrafts, showcasing its versatility.

Coconut Leaves: The leaves of the coconut palm are used for weaving baskets, mats, and thatching roofs, especially in traditional cultures.

Coconut Vinegar: Made from fermented coconut sap, coconut vinegar is used as a tangy condiment in cooking and as a health tonic.

Coconut Butter: A spread made from pureed coconut meat, coconut butter is used in cooking, baking, or as a topping for toast and desserts.

Activities to Celebrate World Coconut Day

Coconut-Themed Cooking: Host a cooking class or potluck featuring dishes made with coconut ingredients, such as coconut milk curries, coconut desserts, and refreshing coconut water drinks.

Coconut Craft Workshops: Organize a workshop where participants can create crafts using coconut shells, leaves, and coir, such as jewellery, decorative items, or eco-friendly products.

Coconut Plantation Tours: Arrange a visit to a local coconut farm or plantation to learn about coconut cultivation, harvesting, and the different uses of coconuts.

Coconut Recipe Sharing: Encourage people to share their favourite coconut-based recipes online or within the community, highlighting the versatility of this amazing fruit.

Health and Wellness Events: Conduct a session on the health benefits of coconut products, such as coconut oil, water, and milk, and how they can be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle.

World Letter Writing Day

 

World Letter Writing Day is celebrated on September 1 every year. This day aims to remind people of the simple beauty of sending or receiving a letter. Technological advancements have made communication faster and more convenient, progressing from sign language to written letters to phone calls, and now to video calls. However, nothing can beat the joys of penning down one’s feelings for their near and dear ones.

Presently, letters are exclusively used in formal paperwork. In order to uphold the practice of writing letters in the future, it is important for us to write letters to our loved ones more frequently.

History of World Letter Writing Day

World Letter Writing Day was established in 2014 by Richard Simpkin, an Australian photographer and author. Simpkin, known for his “Australian Legends” project in which he photographed and interviewed prominent Australians, was inspired by the power of handwritten letters he received from these notable figures.

Recognising the diminishing practice of letter writing in the digital age, he founded this day to promote the art of handwritten communication. The date, September 1st, was chosen to coincide with the beginning of spring in Australia, symbolising new beginnings and fresh connections.

Importance of National Letter Writing Day

Letter Writing Day commemorates and honours the traditional method of communication in the modern era of text and email. It allows you to reach out to people you have lost contact with and encourages thoughtful communication, as opposed to using instant messaging.

Below are a few excellent reasons for writing a letter

·  It's a considerate way to connect with the people you care about.

·  The recipient could hold onto your letter for many years.

·   Individuals who engage in writing thank-you notes experience increased feelings of happiness and contentment in their lives.

·   It's an excellent method to enhance a friendship, marriage, or any other important relationship

·  Assisting someone in comprehending your viewpoint or stance on a particular subject can be beneficial.

·   This traditional form of communication will be appreciated by your older friends and relatives.

·    Having attractive handwriting allows you to display your mastery in penmanship.

Letter writing has several unique qualities, including:

1.     Therapeutic: Writing therapeutic letters can serve as a cathartic outlet, allowing you to express your emotions, release negative thoughts, and cultivate gratitude.

2.     Tangible: Letters are tangible artifacts that can be held, felt, and read by future generations.

3.    Personal: There’s something uniquely personal and human about the act of letter writing that technology simply can’t replicate.

4.  Meaningful: Writing letters can offer a meaningful substitute for in-person visits, thereby strengthening the bonds of friendship and family.

5.     Timeless: The act of letter writing is timeless, transcending the constraints of time and space.

6.     Keepsake: Handwritten letters can become cherished keepsakes, serving as a constant reminder of the emotions shared between the sender and the recipient.

7.     Elicits emotions: The tactile experience of receiving a handwritten letter can stir a wide range of emotions, from nostalgia to joy.

The core of letters established a profound closeness as each one carried the unmistakable mark of its writer. All the pleasant aromas from your home and garden clippings can be included in a letter that is mailed out.

Digital media lacks the personal touch found in traditional methods, so take advantage of World Letter Writing Day to acknowledge the beauty of handwritten letters.

Letters have many purposes, including: Letters serve various functions, such as delivering updates, well-wishes, or particular details. Using letters can help establish connections with unfamiliar individuals and strengthen relationships with close ones.

Correspondence can offer a record of connections that can be cherished and revisited. The use of letters remains crucial for formal communication, including cover letters, bank reminders, and college acceptance letters.

Origin of Latter Writing

Throughout history, letters have journeyed from ancient India, Egypt, and Sumer, passing through Rome, Greece, and China, all the way to the present time. Ancient Indian texts refer to a messenger system, and it seems that there was a postal system in Egypt dating back to 2000 BCE.

Another claim in dispute is that Atossa, a Persian queen, may have written the first handwritten letter around 500 BCE. Although the letters she penned are no longer around, the tradition of writing for communication and documentation lives on.

Letter Writing in India

The East India Company established the current Indian postal system. Post offices were set up in Bombay, Madras and Calcutta from 1764 to 1766.

During Warren Hastings' time as governor general of India in 1774, 'copper tickets' were introduced in Patna, serving as prepaid token stamps valued at two annas. This gave the general public access to the postal service, allowing letters to be sent by individuals rather than just by government and business entities.

The Significance of Letters in Indian Literature

Indian literature contains numerous letters that offer important perspectives on the culture, emotions, and events of the period. In Sanskrit epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, letters play a key role in advancing the story and uncovering hidden truths.

These letters, frequently penned by individuals in moments of turmoil or profound thought, showcase the influence of written language in expressing feelings and untangling intricate scenarios. In Indian poetry, there is also a strong focus on the art of composing love letters, incorporating verses that convey desire, fervour, and eloquence.

How to celebrate World Letter Writing Day

·   Take a moment and think about the individuals who have a significant role in your life. Take out your high-quality paper, ensure you fill your pen with your preferred ink, ignite the fragrant candle, and begin writing down your thoughts. When you start writing, you will discover that the gradual speed of writing helps you carefully locate your thoughts, ensuring your emotions are as genuine as they can be. Letter Writing Day is a great time to reach out to old friends or relatives, expressing your feelings and reconnecting with loved ones.

·    Purchase postcards from a nearby store, write brief messages on them, and mail to friends, family, and strangers.

·   Craft your own set of stationery! Create playful patterns on cardstock paper, cut into shapes, assemble with glue, and embellish with stickers for a distinctive appearance. Your letters will now be noticeable.