Madeira Day (Portugal)

Madeira Day is a national holiday celebrated on July 1st, commemorating the archipelago’s independence from mainland Portugal, granted in 1976. The day is marked with cultural events, parades, and fireworks displays. Visitors can experience the local culture by trying traditional Madeiran food, such as espetada (meat skewers), bolo do caco (a type of bread), and poncha (a local alcoholic drink). The holiday is an opportunity to learn about Madeira’s history and culture, including its unique traditions, such as the famous Madeira wine and the flower festival. Join the locals in celebrating Madeira Day and experience the island’s rich cultural heritage.

History of Madeira Day

Madeira is an archipelago situated in the north Atlantic Ocean. The islands were visited and then settled by Portuguese sailors in the service of Prince Henry the Navigator in 1419. The archipelago is considered to be the first territorial discovery of the exploratory period of the Age of Discovery.

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal. Autonomy was granted to the Autonomous Region of Madeira in the Portuguese Constitution on July 1st 1976. This followed the 1974 revolution that swept away the Salazar dictatorship that had governed mainland Portugal, the islands and the colonies since 1928.

The holiday is marked throughout the region with fireworks and parades.  An official ceremony takes place in the Regional Legislative Assembly.

Although it is officially celebrated as a public holiday in Madeira, it is also celebrated by Madeiran citizens and those with a Madeiran heritage around the world.

International Fruit Day

International Fruit Day is a global celebration on July 1st that encourages people to enjoy and promote the health benefits of eating fruits while raising awareness about reducing food waste.

What is International Fruit Day

-        Observed on July 1st worldwide, it encourages fruit consumption.

-        The event raises awareness about health benefits and reducing food waste.

-        It fosters community by promoting sharing fruits with others.

-        A "Fruit of the Year" is designated each year to highlight its significance.

-        Overall, International Fruit Day promotes healthier living and sustainable eating habits.

 
International Fruit Day History

International Fruit Day was first celebrated in 2007 in Berlin, Germany, by former social work students from the University of Applied Science Alice Salomon.

-        Initially, it started as a casual event focused on sharing meals of fruits and vegetables.

-        Over time, the event evolved to emphasize sustainability and global awareness.

-      Its core purpose expanded to raise awareness about the nutritional and health benefits of consuming more fruits.

-        In 2021, the United Nations declared it the 'International Year of Fruits and Vegetables' to enhance global awareness.

-        The day encourages people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate by sharing fruits with family, friends, and those in need.

-        International Fruit Day promotes a positive living environment and a healthier lifestyle through fruit consumption and lessening food waste.

10 Amazing Facts About Fruits

Here ten interesting facts to celebrate International Fruit Day:

1.      Bananas are classified as berries, while strawberries aren't true berries.

2.      Apples can float in water since they contain about 25% air.

3.      Durian fruit, known as the "King of Fruits," has a pungent odour.

4.      Pineapples take nearly two years to grow from planting to harvest.

5.      Avocado is a berry and has the highest fat content among fruits.

6.      Blueberries are one of the rare naturally blue foods.

7.      Grapes have multiple uses, from raisins to wine and juice.

8.      A single lemon tree can yield up to 600 pounds of lemons yearly.

9.      Watermelons consist of 92% water, making them incredibly hydrating.

10.   Dragon fruit, with its vibrant colours, belongs to the cactus family and offers a sweet taste.

Fruits offer a world of intriguing diversity, from floating apples to the exotic dragon fruit, each with its unique characteristics and qualities.

Major Durga Malla's Birth Anniversary

Durga Malla was born on 1 July 1913 at village Doiwala in Dehradun into the Gorkha family. During his student days, he was actively involved in anti-British activities in the locality.  His family was frequently subjected to severe interrogation by the British. In 1942 Netaji entrusted the responsibility to Durga Malla to mobilize volunteers for INA from different Gorkha battalions. He was promoted to the rank of Major by Netaji because of his commitment and passion.

After the formation of the Provisional Azad Hind Government under the supreme command of Netaji, war was declared against the Allied Forces on 25 October 1943. Durga Malla was posted in the Intelligence Branch.  He along with fellow soldiers entered the hilly area of greater Assam across the Burma border.

On 27 March 1944 when Durga Malla was on a mission in Manipur, he was captured by the British at Ukhrul in Manipur. On 15 August 1944, he was taken to Delhi Central Jail from the Red Fort. After 10 days, on 25 August 1944, he was sent to the gallows.

On 25 August 2017, the Uttarakhand government announced that the Doiwala- Khata road would be named after martyr Major Durga Malla. Also, the martyr’s statue adorns the Parliament which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in 2004.

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy - Birth & Death Anniversary

 

Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy (1 July 1882 – 1 July 1962) was an Indian physician, educationist, and statesman who served as Chief Minister of West Bengal from 1950 until his death in 1962. He played a key role in the founding of several institutions and the cities like Salt Lake (now a part of Bidhannagar Municipal Corporation), Kalyani and Durgapur.

In India, the National Doctors’ Day is celebrated in his memory every year on 1 July. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour in 1961

National Doctors Day (India)

Every year on July 1st, India celebrates National Doctors Day, a day dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of doctors to the society. This day serves as a reminder of the selfless service and dedication of medical professionals who work tirelessly to ensure the health and well-being of the nation.

The Date and Its History

National Doctors Day is celebrated on July 1st (since 1991) in India to honour the birth and death anniversary of the renowned physician Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. Dr. Roy, who was also the second Chief Minister of West Bengal, is remembered for his contributions to the medical field and his commitment to the welfare of the people.

Significance

National Doctors Day acknowledges the critical role doctors play in society. From providing routine medical care to responding to emergencies, doctors are the backbone of the healthcare system.

National Doctors Day is also an opportunity for the public to express gratitude to the medical community. It is a day to recognise the sacrifices doctors make, often at the expense of their own well-being, to ensure the health and safety of others. This day encourages society to appreciate and support the medical profession and to advocate for better working conditions and resources for healthcare workers.