Crossword Puzzle Day

 

December 21st marks an occasion that brings together vocabularians, puzzle enthusiasts, and casual readers alike: Crossword Puzzle Day. Celebrating the joy of wordplay and the satisfaction that comes from piecing together clues, this day invites all to appreciate the cultural phenomenon that is the crossword puzzle. To honour this fun-filled day, let's explore the origins of the crossword puzzle, its evolution over the years, and some fascinating facts that every puzzle fan should know.

The Origins of Crossword Puzzles

The first modern crossword puzzle was created by journalist Arthur Wynne, who designed it for the New York World newspaper in 1913. His creation, which he called a "Word-Cross," featured a diamond shape and initially omitted the now-common black squares. Wynne's artistic vision laid the groundwork for what would become a staple in newspapers worldwide by introducing a new form of wordplay that also challenged critical thinking.

The puzzles quickly gained popularity, inspiring other newspapers to create their own, and by the 1920s, crosswords had officially become a cultural phenomenon. This era also witnessed the introduction of the term "crossword" when Wynne rotated the title, resulting in the puzzles we know today. Since then, they have evolved into various forms, with some using creativity and humour, while others adopt more serious, academic tones.

International Human Solidarity Day

International Human Solidarity Day is observed annually on December 20. Established by the United Nations, it serves as a global celebration of unity in diversity and a reminder of the shared responsibility needed to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and social injustice. 

Core Objectives

The United Nations identifies several key purposes for this day:

• Celebrate Unity: Honouring the global community's ability to stand together despite national, cultural, or religious differences.
• Raise Awareness: Educating the public on the importance of solidarity in international relations and community development.
• Action for Poverty: Encouraging new initiatives and reminding governments to fulfil their commitments to eradicate poverty.
• Support Global Goals: Promoting cooperation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). 

History and Origin

 

• 2000: The UN Millennium Declaration identified solidarity as a fundamental value for the 21st century.
• 2002: The UN General Assembly established the World Solidarity Fund (Resolution 57/265) on December 20 to tackle poverty in developing nations.
• 2005: The General Assembly officially proclaimed December 20 as International Human Solidarity Day (Resolution 60/209). 

 

Foundation Day of the Asian Development Bank

 

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) celebrates its Foundation Day on December 19th, marking the date of its official establishment in 1966 to promote economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region, with operations starting in 1967 from its Manila headquarters. 

Key Facts about ADB's Foundation:

• Established: December 19, 1966.
• First Operations: Started in 1967.
• Purpose: To foster economic development and cooperation in Asia.
• Headquarters: Manila, Philippines.
• Founding Members: Began with 31 countries, expanding to 69 members today (50 from the region, 19 non-regional).
• Role: Provides loans, grants, technical assistance, and equity investments to support development.

World Arabic Language Day

 

World Arabic Language Day is celebrated annually on December 18th, established by UNESCO in 2012 to honour Arabic as a pillar of human diversity, recognizing its rich history, influence on culture, science, and its role as the sixth official language of the United Nations since 1973, with celebrations focusing on its beauty, heritage, and digital future.

Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī's Death Anniversary

Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī, commonly known simply as Rumi, who passed away on 17 December 1273, in Konya (present-day Turkey), aged 66, was a 13th-century Sufi mystic, poet, and Islamic scholar whose works have had a profound and lasting influence across the Muslim world and beyond. He is one of the most widely read and best-selling poets in the world today. 

Boston Tea Party in 1773

The Boston Tea Party was a pivotal political protest that took place on December 16, 1773, at Griffin's Wharf in Boston, Massachusetts.  It served as a primary catalyst for the American Revolutionary War by uniting the colonies against British rule. 

Key Facts of the Event

• The Protest: Frustrated by "taxation without representation" and the British East India Company's monopoly on tea, a group of colonists—many from the Sons of Liberty—boarded three ships: the Dartmouth, the Eleanor, and the Beaver.
• The Action: Disguised as Native Americans (specifically Mohawk Indians) to hide their identities, they smashed and dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor over the course of three hours.
• Monetary Loss: Approximately 92,000 pounds of tea were destroyed, valued at nearly £10,000 in 1773, which is equivalent to roughly $1.7 million to $2 million today.
• Outcome: In retaliation, the British Parliament passed the Coercive Acts (known in the colonies as the Intolerable Acts) in 1774, which closed Boston Harbor and established formal military rule in Massachusetts. 

National Cupcake Day (USA)

 

National Cupcake Day is celebrated annually on December 15th. It is a day dedicated to enjoying, baking, and sharing these small, versatile desserts.

They’re small, sweet, and packed with personality—cupcakes are more than just mini cakes; they’re a worldwide sensation. Whether dressed up in swirls of frosting, glittering sprinkles, or filled with hidden centres, these have become a symbol of celebration, comfort, and creativity. And what better way to honour this bite-sized delight than with its very own holiday?

National Cupcake Day, celebrated every year on December 15th, is a time to indulge in your favorite flavors, try new ones, and share these tiny treats with friends and family. From birthday parties to weddings and everyday cravings, they have found their way into every corner of the culinary world.

Chhagan Bapa's Death Anniversary

Chhaganlal Parekh, popularly known as Chhagan Bapa, who passed away on 14 December 1968, aged 74, was a prominent Indian social worker and philanthropist. He is best known for his work in education, poverty alleviation, and social reforms for women, and for providing the initial seed funding for the successful women's cooperative, Lijjat Papad. 

Key Contributions and Work

• Social Work and Philanthropy: After a successful career in the coal business in Kolkata and Mumbai, Parekh retired to dedicate his life to social service. He was known for his tireless efforts during natural disasters, such as the 1956 Kutch earthquake, where he helped with relief work and fund collection.
• Education: He was a strong advocate for education, especially for women. His efforts led to the establishment of the first all-girls high school in Anjar, known as K.K.M.S. Girls High School.
• Women's Empowerment: He played a crucial role in empowering women by helping to establish Shri Mahila Griha Udyog Lijjat Papad in 1959. He loaned the seven founding women a modest ₹80, which they used to start the cooperative that grew into a massive, global enterprise based on shared ownership and the motto "Sarvodaya" (upliftment for all).
• Recognition: In recognition of his significant contributions to society, the Government of India issued a commemorative postage stamp in his honour in 1999. 

National Violin Day (United States)

National Violin Day is celebrated annually on December 13th. It is a day to honour the rich history, versatility, and cultural contributions of the violin, an instrument known for its expressive capabilities across various music genres, from classical to folk, jazz, and rock.

Background

The name "violin" comes from the Medieval Latin word "vitula," meaning stringed instrument. Its modern characteristics were primarily developed by Italian instrument makers (luthiers) in the 16th century, with the oldest documented four-string violin credited to Andrea Amati around 1555. Prized instruments by master luthiers like Amati, Guarneri, and Antonio Stradivari are still sought after today.

 

How to Observe National Violin Day

Whether you are a seasoned player or a curious listener, there are many ways to celebrate National Violin Day: 

• Listen to music: Explore a wide range of music genres, from Paganini compositions to bluegrass, that feature the violin.
• Attend a performance: Look for local school, orchestra, or chamber music concerts and experience the instrument live.
• Watch violin-themed movies: Indulge in films that revolve around the instrument, such as The Red Violin or The Devil's Violinist.
• Learn to play: Fulfil a lifelong goal by signing up for a violin lesson or dusting off your own instrument to practice.
• Learn about its history: Read about the origins of the instrument, its evolution, and the famous luthiers who crafted masterworks.
• Share on social media: Use the hashtag #NationalViolinDay to share how you are celebrating. 

The day is a perfect opportunity to appreciate an instrument that has profoundly influenced music history and continues to inspire creativity across the globe. 

 

 

Universal Health Coverage Day

Universal Health Coverage Day is an annual, official United Nations-designated observance held every year on December 12. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the goal of ensuring that everyone, everywhere, can access quality and affordable healthcare without suffering financial hardship. 

History and Significance

The day commemorates the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly's unanimous endorsement of a resolution in 2012 that urged countries to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage (UHC) as an essential development priority. The official UN designation occurred in 2017. 

UHC Day serves as a global rallying point for advocates to: 

• Share stories of the millions who still lack access to health services.
• Call on leaders to make smarter investments in resilient health systems.
• Remind the world that "Health for All" is a human right and an imperative for equitable societies. 

National Tango Day (Argentina)/ International Tango Day

 

National Tango Day (also known as International Tango Day) is celebrated annually on December 11. The date was chosen to commemorate the shared birthday of two prominent figures in the history of tango: singer Carlos Gardel and composer Julio de Caro.

Key Details

• Date: December 11
• Significance: Honors the rich cultural legacy of the tango music and dance form.
• Origin: The idea was proposed by Argentine composer Ben Molar in the 1960s, and it was officially made a national day in Argentina in 1977. It has since gained worldwide recognition.
• UNESCO Status: In 2009, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) added the tango to its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity lists, recognizing it as a high art form that originated in the Río de la Plata region between Argentina and Uruguay.
• Celebrations: The day is celebrated globally with various events, including concerts, dance festivals, workshops, and social gatherings known as milongas. 

International Animal Rights Day

 

International Animal Rights Day is observed annually on December 10th, coinciding with Human Rights Day, to advocate for animals' rights to respect, freedom from exploitation, and ethical treatment, highlighting that non-human beings deserve compassion and protection, similar to humans. Founded by the group Uncaged in 1998, the day calls for recognizing animals as sentient beings and promoting kindness, conservation, and the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Animal Rights.

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime

 

The date for the international observance related to genocide is December 9, officially known as the International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime.

About the Observance

• Date: December 9th annually.
• Purpose: This day commemorates victims of past genocides and raises awareness of the 1948 Genocide Convention and the commitment to preventing future atrocities.
• Significance: Established by the UN General Assembly on September 29, 2015, the date honours the adoption of the Genocide Convention on December 9, 1948.
• Focus: It underscores the responsibility of states to protect their populations from genocide and the need to combat impunity for this crime.

Dharmendra's Birth Anniversary

 

Dharmendra, born on 8 December 1935, was an Indian actor, producer and politician, primarily known for his work in Hindi films. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most commercially successful megastars in the history of Indian cinema. In a career spanning 65 years, he worked in over 300 films, holding the record for starring in the highest number of hit films in Hindi cinema.

Pramukh Swami Maharaj's Birth Anniversary

Pramukh Swami Maharaj, born on 7 December 1921, was a highly influential Hindu spiritual leader and the fifth guru of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a major branch of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. He was revered by his followers as a manifestation of Akshar, the eternal abode of Swaminarayan. 

Born Shantilal Patel in Chansad, Gujarat, India, he was initiated as a swami in 1940 and appointed president (Pramukh) of BAPS in 1950 at the young age of 28. He dedicated his life to selfless service and inspired millions globally through his simple, humble, and peaceful personality. 

World Pear Day 2025

World Pear Day is an annual celebration held on the first Saturday of December, and it in 2025 it is on December 6. The day promotes awareness and appreciation for the various health benefits and versatility of pears, especially during their peak season. 

Purpose and History

World Pear Day was initiated by the Pear Bureau Northwest in 2016 to highlight the global availability of fresh pears and to kick off National Pear Month, which is celebrated throughout December in the U.S. The event is a global effort involving retailers, importers, and consumers in over 24 countries, featuring sampling events, chef demonstrations, and social media campaigns using the hashtag #WorldPearDay.

Health Benefits

Pears are a low-calorie, fat-free, cholesterol-free source of essential nutrients. Key health benefits include: 

Improved Digestion: Pears are rich in dietary fibre, which aids digestion and can help prevent constipation.

Heart Health: The potassium in pears helps regulate heart rate and manage blood pressure, while antioxidants reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Weight Management: The high fibre content promotes a feeling of fullness, which helps in reducing cravings and managing weight.

Immunity Boost: They contain vitamins C and K, and various antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system and fight infections.

 

International Volunteer Day

 

International Volunteer Day is celebrated annually on December 5th to recognize and promote the contributions of volunteers worldwide. The day, mandated by the United Nations in 1985, is a chance to celebrate the impact of volunteerism on local, national, and international levels and to encourage governments and organizations to support volunteer efforts. 

• Purpose: To acknowledge the invaluable work of volunteers and to promote the spirit of volunteerism and collective action.
• Recognition: It highlights how volunteers contribute to achievements like peace-building, disaster response, and sustainable development.
• Call to Action: The day encourages people and organizations to work together to support volunteerism and for governments to show their support through policy and resources.

National Dice Day (USA)

 "Dice Day," more formally known as National Dice Day, is an annual celebration held on December 4th. This day is dedicated to recognizing the simple yet ancient gaming tool used in countless games for fun, strategy, and chance.

How to Celebrate National Dice Day

• Play games: The most common way to celebrate is by playing any game that uses dice. Popular options range from classic board games like Monopoly and Backgammon to roleplaying games like Dungeons & Dragons, or dedicated dice games like Yahtzee and Bunco.
• Host a party: Organize a dice-themed game night with friends and family.
• Get creative: Design or craft your own unique set of dice, or even invent a new game.
• Learn the history: Explore the fascinating history of dice, which are the oldest known gaming implements, with origins tracing back over 5,000 years to ancient civilizations like those in Iran and the Indus Valley.
• Share on social media: Use hashtags like #NationalDiceDay or #RollTheDice to share your activities and love for dice online.

Did You Know?

• Dice have been used for thousands of years in various cultures for purposes ranging from entertainment and gambling to fortune-telling and divination.
• The most common die is a six-sided cube (D6), where the dots on opposite sides always add up to seven.
• Modern dice are typically made from plastic or synthetic resin, but historically they were made from bone, ivory, wood, and other materials.
• Dice games can help improve math skills in children, such as number recognition and basic addition. 

So, on December 4th, roll the dice and let the good times roll!

Khudiram Bose's Birth Anniversary

Khudiram Bose (also spelled Khudiram Basu), born on 3 December 1889, in Midnapore, Bengal Presidency, British India (now Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal, India, was an Indian nationalist from Bengal Presidency who opposed British rule of India. For his role in the Muzaffarpur Conspiracy Case, along with Prafulla Chaki, he was sentenced to death, for the attempted assassination of a British judge, Magistrate Douglas Kingsford, by throwing bombs on the carriage they suspected the man was in. Magistrate Kingsford, however, was seated in a different carriage, and the throwing of bombs resulted in the deaths of two British women. Prafulla fatally shot himself before the arrest. Khudiram was arrested and tried for the murder of the two women, ultimately being sentenced to death. He was one of the first Indian revolutionaries in Bengal to be executed by the British.

Eid Al Etihad (UAE National Day)

 

Eid Al Etihad, also known as UAE National Day, is celebrated annually on 2 December to celebrate the unification of the United Arab Emirates. The seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, was added to the federation on 10 February 1972 making it the last emirate to join.

Madame Tussaud's Birth Anniversary

 

Anna Maria "Marie" Tussaud; née Grosholtz; born on 1 December 1761, commonly known as Madame Tussaud, was a French artist known for her wax sculptures and Madame Tussauds, the wax museum she founded in London.