Kisan Diwas

 

Kisan Diwas, or National Farmer's Day, is observed annually on December 23 to honour the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth Prime Minister and a dedicated advocate for farmers. This day is celebrated to express gratitude to the farmers who form the foundation of the country's economy.

Date of Kisan Diwas

In 2001, the Government of India designated December 23 as Kisan Diwas to commemorate Chaudhary Charan Singh's contributions toward the upliftment of farmers. The day highlights his vision for farmer welfare and serves as a reminder of the pivotal role farmers play in the nation's growth.

First freight train operated in India in 1851

 

Transportation by freight rail allowed great distances to be travelled in shorter periods of time than ever before. Goods and cargo could be transported across the country, and this technology greatly increased the manufacturing business.

It was on 22 December in 1851 that the first freight train was operated in India. In comparison, rail transportation began almost three decades earlier in the United States.

The first railroad in India was meant to haul construction materials. The journey was from Roorkee, now in Uttarakhand, to Piran Kaliyar, about ten kilometres away. The freight train was used to transport materials necessary to build the Ganga Canal at the time.

 

Then, the system developed in order to operate passenger rail lines. Passenger rails began operating in India in April 1853, which led to a bustling rail industry in the country. India now has the 4th largest rail network in the world. Annually, the country transports over 100 million tons of goods and 10 billion passengers.

Winter Solstice

 

Winter Solstice occurs on 22 December. The winter solstice, also known as - the hibernal solstice, or the Shortest Day, or the Longest Night, is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It happens when one of the Earth's poles has its maximum tilt away from the Sun. After the winter solstice, the days start to get longer again. The winter solstice has been celebrated for thousands of years by people all over the world. It is seen as a time of rebirth, when the Sun 'dies' and is reborn. For many cultures, it is a time of feasting and celebration. It is also a time for giving thanks for the bounty of the earth.

Srinivasa Ramanujan's Birth Anniversary

 

Srinivasa Ramanujan born on 22 December 1887, was an Indian mathematician who lived during the British Rule in India. Though he had almost no formal training in pure mathematics, he made substantial contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions, including solutions to mathematical problems then considered unsolvable. Ramanujan initially developed his own mathematical research in isolation: "He tried to interest the leading professional mathematicians in his work, but failed for the most part. What he had to show them was too novel, too unfamiliar, and additionally presented in unusual ways; they could not be bothered". Seeking mathematicians who could better understand his work, in 1913 he began a postal partnership with the English mathematician G. H. Hardy at the University of Cambridge, England. Recognizing Ramanujan's work as extraordinary, Hardy arranged for him to travel to Cambridge. In his notes, Ramanujan had produced groundbreaking new theorems, including some that Hardy said had "defeated him and his colleagues completely", in addition to rediscovering recently proven but highly advanced results.

National Mathematics Day (India)

 

National Mathematics Day is celebrated every year on December 22, marking the birth anniversary of the legendary Indian Mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. While this day commemorates his immense contributions during his lifetime to mathematics, it reminisces about the importance of mathematics in daily life and how it modernised society.

National Mathematics Day: History

It was officially launched by then Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh in December 2012, in conjunction with the 125th birth anniversary of S. Ramanujan. This was done in a bid to ensure that the generations to come in India emulate others by endeavouring in mathematics.

Ramanujan was born in 1887 and, in his short life span till the age of 32 years, he made outstanding findings in number theory, infinite series and continued fractions.

National Mathematics Day: Significance

National Mathematics Day is significant as it pays tribute to the contributions of Ramanujan and inspires future generations of mathematicians.

The curriculum encourages appreciation of the subject of mathematics beyond mere rote learning, developing an understanding and interest in it.

The day is supposed to showcase the role of mathematics in activities forming the core of technology, engineering, economics and health care.

Different activities and competitions are held so that, through the means of mathematics, students may develop critical thinking and analyse any problem.

 

World Saree Day

 

World Saree Day, observed annually on December 21, is a global tribute to the timeless elegance, enduring charm and cultural significance of the saree. On this day, people around the world come together to honour this iconic garment, which has draped women in grace for centuries. The occasion celebrates the saree as a symbol of heritage, femininity and diversity.

From its intricate weaves to its colours, the saree is a masterpiece of textile craftsmanship. Its origins date back to ancient India, where it evolved from simple drapes into intricate works of art, adorned with embroidery, beads, sequins and woven motifs.

World Saree Day: History

Founded by social activists Sindhura Kaviti and Nistula Hebbar in 2020, World Saree Day was established as a platform to celebrate the intricate craftsmanship and rich heritage of sarees. The movement was initiated by Kaviti, who spearheaded the campaign to designate December 21 as an official day for global recognition.

The initiative quickly garnered attention on social media and within the fashion community, receiving support from prominent figures and organisations worldwide.

World Saree Day: Significance

World Saree Day is a tribute to the timeless elegance of the saree and its enduring charm. The day holds significance on multiple levels, from celebrating cultural preservation to promoting inclusivity and empowerment.

1. Celebrating cultural heritage: The saree is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage, embodying tradition, grace and beauty. World Saree Day provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate this cherished cultural legacy.

2.  Honouring weavers: The day also acknowledges the artisans whose artistry and skilled craftsmanship bring these beautiful garments to life. These dedicated weavers and their craftsmanship are the backbone of the saree tradition.

3.  Promoting Indian handlooms: A key aim of World Saree Day is to promote and preserve the art of handloom weaving, an integral part of India’s textile industry. The day raises awareness about handloom industries, ensuring that their legacy continues to inspire future generations.

4. Empowering women: The saree is more than just a garment, it is a symbol of empowerment, making women feel confident, graceful and beautiful.

5. Cultural connection: From the luxurious Kanchipuram silks to the colourful Bandhani prints, World Saree Day seeks to give global recognition to the saree and its diverse styles. The day encourages people worldwide to connect with India’s rich culture and embrace traditional attire.

 

 

World Meditation Day

 

On 21^st December 2024, the world celebrates the first-ever World Meditation Day, marking a significant moment in the global acknowledgement of the transformative power of meditation. This annual celebration has been established following a resolution by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 29^th November 2024. The day is set to emphasize the profound mental, physical, and social benefits of meditation, while fostering peace and unity worldwide.