Druk Wangyel Tshechu

The Druk Wangyel Tshechu occurs annually on December 13th, spanning just one day. Held at the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang temple situated within the Dochula Pass, approximately an hour's drive from the capital city, Thimphu, and along the route to Punakha valley, the festival offers a unique cultural experience. Against the backdrop of the majestic snow-covered Jigme Singye Wangchuck mountain range, which stands at an elevation of 3,150 meters. At the heart of the Druk Wangyel Tshechu lies a poignant tribute to the fourth King of Bhutan, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck and the Royal Bhutan Army, commemorating their valor and success in a pivotal military operation. In December 2003, this operation saw the successful expulsion of Indian militants hiding in the southern regions of Bhutan. The festival serves as a poignant reminder of this historic moment, honouring the bravery and dedication of those involved.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Druk Wangyel Tshechu

The Druk Wangyel Tshechu holds significant historical and cultural importance for the people of Bhutan. It was inaugurated in 2011 by Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of the Bhutanese armed forces. The festival pays homage to the gallant soldiers who have served the nation with valour and dedication, showcasing their contributions to the peace and security of Bhutan.

Nicholas Roerich's Death Anniversary

Nicholas Roerich, who passed away on 13 December 1947, was a Russian painter, writer, archaeologist, theosophist, philosopher, and public figure. In his youth he was influenced by Russian Symbolism, a movement in Russian society centred on the spiritual. He was interested in hypnosis and other spiritual practices and his paintings are said to have hypnotic expression. 

Smita Patil's Death Anniversary

 

Smita Patil, who passed away on 13 December 1986 was an Indian actress of film, television and theatre. Regarded among the finest stage and film actresses of her times, Patil appeared in over 80 Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Malayalam and Kannada films in a career that spanned just over a decade. During her career, she received two National Film Awards and a Filmfare Award. She was the recipient of the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honour in 1985.

India's Gukesh Dommaraju becomes the youngest World Chess Champion

 

India's Gukesh Dommaraju became the youngest world chess champion, defeating defending champ Ding Liren (of China), on Thursday, 12 December 2024. It was a dramatic affair in the decisive 14th game in Singapore, as a blunder from Liren in the end game saw Gukesh come out on top. Gukesh also became the 18th world champion at the age of 18, four years younger than Garry Kasparov, who had been the youngest world champion since 1985 when he reigned supreme against Anatoly Karpov.

Baba Raghav Das' Birth Anniversary

Baba Raghav Das, born on 12 December 1896, was an Indian guru, freedom fighter, reformer, philosopher, member of parliament, and an activist. He is best known for his social contributions.

Zorawar Singh Kahluria's Death Anniversary

Zorawar Singh Kahluria, who passed away on 12 December 1841, was a military general of the Dogra Rajput ruler, Gulab Singh of Jammu. He served as the governor (wazir-e-wazarat) of Kishtwar and extended the territories of the kingdom by conquering Ladakh and Baltistan. He also boldly attempted the conquest of Western Tibet (Ngari Khorsum) but was killed in battle of To-yo during the Dogra-Tibetan war. In reference to his legacy of conquests in the Himalaya Mountains including Ladakh, Tibet, Baltistan and Iskardu as General and Wazir, Zorowar Singh has been referred to as the "Napoleon of India", and "Conqueror of Ladakh". 

T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai's Death Anniversary

T. N. Rajarathnam Pillai', who passed away on 12 December 1956, was an Indian Carnatic musician, nadaswaram maestro, vocalist and film actor. He was popularly known as "Nadaswara Chakravarthi" (literally, the Emperor of Nadaswaram).