Sandcastle Day 2025 - First Saturday of August

Sandcastle Day takes place on the first Saturday of August. This year, it falls on August 2^nd. This fun-filled day encourages beachgoers of all ages to get creative in the sand and build their best sandcastles. It’s a perfect opportunity for families and friends to enjoy a day at the beach, showcasing their artistic skills and engaging in friendly competition.

This fun Day is all about celebrating the joy of playing in the sand and appreciating the beauty of temporary art created by hands and imagination. Building sandcastles is a timeless beach activity that fosters creativity, teamwork, and a connection with nature. Whether you’re an expert sculptor or a beginner, this day is meant for everyone to enjoy the simple pleasure of building and decorating sand structures.

Tirupati Laddu Day

When one thinks of the temple of Lord Venkateshwara, the first place that comes to mind is Tirumala Tirupati, which is renowned for its laddu. The Tirupati Laddu, a prasadam from the Tirumala Venkateshwara Temple in Andhra Pradesh, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees worldwide. Much like the Panchamirtham from Palani, the laddu has become synonymous with the spiritual experience of visiting Tirupati. However, this beloved prasadam has a rich and fascinating history of over 300 years. This laddu is offered to devotees after the darshan in the temple. 

Origin of Tirupati Laddu 

The journey of the Tirupati Laddu prasadam dates back to August 2, 1715, when the tradition of offering laddus to Lord Venkateshwara first began. Before this, simpler offerings were presented during the puja, such as curd rice, suyyam, appam, athirasam, and a sweet murukku known as Manoharam. Although the first laddu was offered to the deity in 1715, it was not yet distributed to devotees. Instead, a different prasadam, called "poondhi," was given to them starting in 1803, while full laddus were reserved exclusively for zamindars and other important dignitaries. The laddu we know today was still in the process of becoming the iconic prasadam. 

The Birth of Tradition: Laddus to Devotees 

A turning point came in 1932 when the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) was formed to manage the affairs of the temple. The distribution of laddus to devotees didn’t begin until 1940. This was when Nithya Kalyanam, the daily marriage ritual for Lord Venkateswara, was introduced. During the Kalyanam Utsavam, devotees received laddus made from a special recipe passed down through the descendants of Kalyanam Iyengar. The flavour was so remarkable that devotees urged the TTD to make the laddu the temple’s official prasadam. Responding to these requests, the TTD replaced "poondhi" with laddus, and from 1940 onwards, this delightful sweet became synonymous with Tirumala. 

Types of Tirupati Laddu 

Proktham Laddu: Regularly distributed to common pilgrims, weighing between 60-75 grams. It is produced in large quantities. 

Asthanam Laddu: Specially prepared for festive occasions, this larger laddu weighs 750 grams and contains extra cashews, almonds, and saffron. 

Kalyanotsavam Laddu: Given to devotees participating in the Kalyanotsavam and select Arjitha Sevas. In high demand, it has a limited production compared to the Proktham Laddu and a shelf life of up to 15 days due to advanced packaging. 

Geographical Indication

In 2008, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam registered a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for the Tirupati Laddu, recognizing its unique preparation methods and distinct taste that set it apart from other sweets. The following year, in 2009, they obtained patent rights for the Tirupati Laddu under the category of food as per the GI Act of 1999. This significant legal protection ensures that no other producer can replicate or use the name “Tirupati Laddu” for their own products, thereby preserving its authenticity. In a celebration of this cherished delicacy, India Post unveiled a commemorative postal stamp in 2017 as part of their cuisine series, further honouring the legacy of the Tirupati Laddu. 

The Tirupati laddu has managed to retain its quality, flavour, and divine essence. Even after 300 years, it remains an essential part of the spiritual journey for devotees visiting the Tirupati temple. From its humble beginnings in 1715 to its large-scale production today, the laddu's journey reflects the timeless devotion of the temple’s pilgrims. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meena Kumari's Birth Anniversary

 

Meena Kumari, born Mahjabeen Bano on 1 August 1933, in Dadar, was an iconic Indian actress and poet who made an indelible mark on Hindi cinema. 

Early life and career

·   Born into a poor family in Mumbai, India, she began acting as a child to support her family.

·   She made her debut in 1939 with the film "Leatherface", initially known as "Baby Meena", and later became Meena Kumari when starring in Vijay Bhatt's "Baiju Bawra" (1952).

·  Her career, spanning 33 years, encompassed over 90 films, showcasing her versatility in various genres, from drama and fantasy to comedies.

"The Tragedy Queen"

·   Meena Kumari earned the moniker "The Tragedy Queen" for her captivating and emotionally charged portrayals of sorrowful characters on screen.

·  She mastered playing roles marked by heartbreak, sacrifice, and inner turmoil, leaving audiences deeply moved by her performances. 

Notable films and awards

·   She is celebrated for her roles in classics like "Pakeezah" (1972), "Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam" (1962), "Baiju Bawra" (1952), "Daaera" (1953), "Parineeta" (1953), "Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai" (1960), and "Kaajal" (1965).

·    Meena Kumari won four Filmfare Awards for Best Actress, including the inaugural award for "Baiju Bawra" in 1954 and a historic win at the 10th Filmfare Awards, securing all three Best Actress nominations for her role in "Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam". 

Personal life and struggles

·  Her personal life was marked by challenges, including a troubled marriage to filmmaker Kamal Amrohi and a battle with alcoholism.

·   She was also an accomplished Urdu poet, writing under the pen name "Naaz", and her poems were published by Gulzar after her death.

·   Sadly, she passed away at the young age of 38 due to cirrhosis of the liver in 1972. 

Meena Kumari's artistic legacy continues to captivate audiences, making her a luminous presence in the history of Indian cinema. 

 

Kamala Nehru's Birth Anniversary

 

Kamala Nehru, born on 1 August 1899, in Delhi, was an Indian independence activist and the wife of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of India Their daughter Indira Gandhi was the first female prime minister of India.

Kamala Nehru was involved with Harilal Gandhi in the national movement, and quickly emerged to the forefront. In the Non Cooperation movement of 1921, she organized groups of women in Allahabad and picketed shops selling foreign cloth and liquor. When her husband was arrested to prevent him delivering a "seditious" public speech, she decided to go in his place and read it out to a large crowd of onlookers (filled with her supporters). The British soon realized the threat that Kamala Nehru posed to them and how popular she had become with women's groups all over India. She was arrested on two additional occasions for her involvement in Independence struggle activities, along with Sarojini Naidu, Kamala Nehru's mother, and many other women of the Indian freedom struggle. During this period she started a dispensary in her house Swaraj Bhavan, converting few rooms into a Congress Dispensary to treat wounded activists, their families, and other residents of Allahabad(now Prayagraj). After her death, Mahatma Gandhi with the help of other prominent leaders converted this dispensary into a proper hospital known as Kamala Nehru Memorial Hospital in her memory.

Kamala Nehru spent some time at Gandhi's ashram with Kasturba Gandhi where she built a close friendship with Prabhavati Devi – the wife of freedom fighter Jayaprakash Narayan. They were also freedom fighters for Indian freedom from the British.

Lebanon Army Day

 

Lebanon celebrates its annual Army Day on August 1st. This date marks the official establishment of the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) under the authority of the Lebanese National Government in 1945. 

The day is dedicated to honouring the soldiers who protect Lebanon, demonstrating loyalty and commitment to the country's safety and sovereignty. It's a day of pride, honour, and remembrance for the sacrifices made by the armed forces. 

On this day, tributes are paid to the military personnel and fallen soldiers, recognizing the army as a crucial institution that embodies Lebanon's independence and safeguards its security. Lebanese Army Day also emphasizes the importance of consolidating state authority and ensuring the Lebanese Armed Forces remain the sole legitimate bearer of arms in the country. 

While the day is observed annually, the nature of celebrations can vary depending on the prevailing circumstances in the country. 

 

Swiss National Day

 

Swiss National Day, or "Bundesfeiertag," is Switzerland's most significant national holiday, observed annually on August 1st. It commemorates the founding of the Swiss Confederation in 1291, through the signing of the Federal Charter by representatives from the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. This alliance is considered the foundation of modern Switzerland and laid the groundwork for the unified country known today. 

History and significance

The celebration of Swiss National Day dates back to 1891, marking the 600th anniversary of the Federal Charter. Initially, it wasn't a public holiday in all cantons, but it became an official national holiday in 1994, following a public vote in a national referendum held in September 1993. The date of August 1st was chosen to honour the 1291 pact made by the mountain cantons. 

Traditions and celebrations

Swiss National Day is a vibrant celebration of Swiss heritage and values, marked by a range of traditional and modern festivities across the country. 

Bonfires and fireworks: Communities across Switzerland light bonfires, often on hilltops, creating a spectacular nighttime display. Fireworks are also a highlight, lighting up the skies over cities and towns. The Rhine Falls waterfall in Schaffhausen is regularly illuminated for the occasion.

Parades and gatherings: Cities and towns host parades featuring traditional costumes, brass bands, and flag bearers. People gather in town squares to enjoy local music, dance, and speeches by prominent members of the community.

Traditional foods: Many Swiss enjoy barbecues with traditional foods like Cervelat (a national sausage), Älplermagronen (Alpine macaroni), and of course, Swiss cheeses. Rösti, a dish of grated and fried potatoes, is also a popular choice.

Cultural performances and music: Folk music, featuring yodeling and alphorns, resonates through the air. Dancers in traditional attire perform routines that celebrate Swiss heritage.

Family and community events: Picnics and community events are popular, with families enjoying games and shared meals. 

 

 

 

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) - 1-7 August

 

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is celebrated every 1-7 August in commemoration of the 1990 Innocent Declaration. WBW started in 1992, with annual themes including healthcare systems, women and work, the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, community support, ecology, science, education and human rights.

Importance of Breastfeeding:

·        Breast milk is the best source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals that an infant needs for growth and development during the first six months.

·        Breast milk is the first vaccine for the child. Optimal breastfeeding for children under two years of age has a great impact on survival of the child. The first three days of milk has high antibodies, which increases the immunity of the baby and protects against infections. Breastfeeding also helps in improving the bonding between mother and baby.

 

World Wide Web Day

 

World Wide Web Day is celebrated on August 1 every year. The day is observed to commemorate the World Wide Web (www) and its impact on the world.

It was on August 1 in 1991 that Tim Berners-Lee posted a proposal for the World Wide Web on the alt.hypertext newsgroup; this day is, therefore, celebrated with great importance every year. The year 1989 marked the beginning of the Internet. From that point forward, it has continued to evolve.

World Wide Web Day: History 

The World Wide Web, or simply ‘the Web’, was made by Sir Tim Berners-Lee in 1989 while he was working at CERN (the European Organisation for Nuclear Research).

In March 1989, Berners-Lee presented a proposal for a "distributed information system" to facilitate sharing and updating information between scientists at CERN. Berners-Lee and his colleague Robert Cailliau developed the first web browser, WorldWideWeb (later renamed Nexus), and the first web server, "httpd," in 1990. 

The world's first website went live on August 6, 1991. It was a basic page that made sense of the World Wide Web project and gave data about how to access and utilize it. This site was hosted on Berners-Lee's NeXT computer, which likewise served as the world's first web server.

World Wide Web Day: Importance

World Wide Web Day is huge as it is an opportunity to reflect the effect of the web on our lives and to praise the creativity and genius of Tim Berners-Lee and the numerous other people who have added to its development. 

The day is an indication of the force of the web to interface individuals and share information. It is likewise a day to praise the creativity and development that has made the web what it is today.