31-December... Death anniversary of Robert Boyle...

 

A distinguished 17th-century natural philosopher, scientist, and Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS),  Robert Boyle is remembered on this day (31-dec)...

Born as the seventh son of the Earl of Cork, Robert Boyle received an extensive education, and study abroad in Europe...  Robert Boyle is most renowned for Boyle's Law, formulated around 1662, which establishes the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas at a constant temperature...

Robert Boyle played a crucial role in the establishment of The Royal Society, a leading scientific institution, and his contributions earned him the title "Father of Modern Chemistry"...

The Royal Society archives holds nearly 46 volumes of Robert Boyle's scientific papers and also seven volumes of his correspondence...

A trailblazing scientist and a key figure in the scientific revolution of the 17th century, Robert Boyle was paid tribute by Royal Mail of Great Britain with the release of a 1st class postage stamp in 2010...  The year 2010, commemorates the 350th anniversary of The Royal Society...

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Science and Technology...

(b) Inventors / Scientists...

(c) Scientific Institutions...

(d) Anniversaries / Jubilees... 

30-December... Establishment of Diplomatic relations between Israel and Holy See...

 

The Diplomatic relations between Israel and the Holy See were established on this day (30-dec) in 1993... 

The Diplomatic relationship signifies a bridge between the Jewish state and the spiritual center of the Catholic Church...  This engagement revolves around dialogue, addressing common concerns, and fostering understanding on global issues...

While rooted in religious history, the diplomatic ties extend beyond theological matters, encompassing shared interests and regional stability...  The relationship reflects a commitment to peaceful coexistence in an ever-changing geopolitical landscape...

The Israel and Vatican Postal Administration commemorated the 25 years of Bilateral Diplomatic relations between the State of Israel and the Holy See with the release of a Joint postage stamp in 2019...  The stamp features St.Peter's Church, and Synagogue at Capernaum, Israel...  It symbolizes the unique relations and interactions between Judaism and Christianity...

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Religion...

(b) Christianity / Judaism...

(c) Ancient buildings / monuments / architecture...

(d) Joint Stamp Issues...

(e) Round shaped stamps / Circular stamps...

(f) Flags...

(g) Anniversaries / Jubilees...

29-December... Constitution Day of Ireland...

Constitution day of Ireland is observed on this day (29-dec), which commemorates the enactment of the country's Constitution in 1937...  It shaped the legal and political foundation of the country...

The Constitution establishes Ireland as a sovereign, independent nation and outlines the framework of its Government...  The Constitution document enshrines key principles, including democratic governance, the separation of powers, and protection of individual rights...

Influenced by Irish history and values, the constitution reflects a commitment to social justice and equality...  Over the years, amendments have been made to address evolving societal needs while maintaining the constitutional integrity of this foundational document...

The Constitution day of Ireland was commemorated by the Irish Postal Administration with the release of a 3 Irish penny postage stamp in 1937...

The text on the stamp in Irish translates to... 

   Bunreacht na hÉireann - The Constitution of Ireland

   Éire - Ireland

                                                                                                                   

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Constitution...

(b) Musical Instruments...
(c) Women on Stamps...

28-December... Enactment of Central Reserve Police Force...

Established as Crown Representative's Police (CRP) in 1939 during British rule, it primarily served as a force tasked with assisting the British administration...  The force underwent a significant transformation and reorganization in 1949 with the enactment of CRPF Act on this day (28-dec)...

The largest paramilitary force in India, CRPF, plays a crucial role in maintaining internal security, counter-insurgency, and assisting law enforcement agencies across States and Union Territories...  

CRPF includes some specialized units such as Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), each with specific roles in handling different situations... 

The 50th anniversary of establishment of CRPF was commemorated by India Post with the release a 60-paise postage stamp in 1989...

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

          केंद्रीय रिजर्व पुलिस बल - Central Reserve Police Force

          भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Police Force...

(b) Nation Security...

(c) Prime Minister...

(d) Head of Government...

(e) Men in Uniform...

(f) Anniversaries / Jubilees... 

27-December... First public singing of the Indian National anthem...

The song "Jana Gana Mana", Indian National anthem, composed by Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, was resonated in public for the first time on this day (27-dec) in 1911... 

In 1911 Indian National Congress session in Calcutta session was a significant gathering during the Indian Independence movement... "Jana Gana Mana", the first stanza of the Bengali Brahmo hymn 'Bharoto Bhagyo Bidhata' written by Rabindranath Tagore in 1911, was first sung publicly at this event...

The occasion added a cultural and emotional dimension to the political discussions, emphasizing the unity and diversity of India...  

The song was later translated into Hindi and the Hindi version was adopted by Constituent Assembly as Indian National Anthem on 24-January-1950...

In 2011, India Post honored Rabindranath Tagore, who composed "Jana Gana Mana", the National anthem of India with the release of a 5-rupees postage stamp...  

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

          रवीन्द्रनाथ ठाकुर - Rabindranath Tagore

          भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Poets / Writers / Authors...

(b) Literature...

(c) Literary works...

(d) Nobel Laureates...

(e) National Anthem...

(f) Beard...

26-December... Death anniversary of Keshav Shankar Pillai...

Keshav Shankar Pillai, a trailblazing Indian cartoonist, who left a lasting legacy with his insightful and humorous depictions of societal nuances was remembered on this day (26-dec)...

Considered the father of political cartooning in India, Keshav Shankar Pillai, was renowned for his wit and social commentary, Shankar's cartoons, which often featured in publications like "Shankar's Weekly", capturing the essence of post-independence India...

He skillfully blended humor with astute observations, addressing various societal and political issues...  He also played a key role in the founding of the Children's Book Trust, contributing to the promotion of literature for young readers... 

His work remains a timeless reflection of India's evolving cultural and political landscape...

In 1991, India Post honored Keshav Shankar Pillai, by issuing a 6-rupees 50-paise postage stamp which featured one of his famous cartoon...  

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

          के शंकर पिल्लई - कार्टून - व्यंग्य-चित्र - K Shankar Pillai - Cartoons

          भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Cartoons...

(b) Cartoonists / Writers...

(c) Elephant...

25-December... Birth anniversary of Madan Mohan Malaviya...

 

On this day (25-dec), the birth anniversary of Madan Mohan Malaviya, the visionary founder of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), a prominent educational institution in India, is celebrated...

Madan Mohan Malaviya was a prominent Indian educationist and freedom fighter and was best known for his role in education and public service...  Born in 1861, he started his career as a teacher and became a prominent leader in the Indian Independence Movement...

His pivotal contribution was the establishment of Banaras Hindu University in 1916, envisioning an institution that combined traditional Indian education with modern sciences... Malaviya played a key role in various educational committees and institutions...  Malaviya's lifelong dedication to fostering learning and knowledge left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of India...

In 1991, India Post commemorated the 75th anniversary of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and its founder, Madan Mohan Malaviya, by issuing a 1-rupee postage stamp...  This gesture served as a tribute to the enduring legacy of both Malaviya and the esteemed institution he established...

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

          काशी हिंदू विश्वविद्यालय - Kasi Hindu Vishwavidyalaya (Banaras Hindu University)

          भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Education...

(b) Educational Institutions / Universities...

(c) Indian Independence Freedom Fighters...

(d) Educationist...

(e) Architecture / Buildings...

(f) Headgear...

(g) Anniversaries / Jubilees...

24-December... Silent Night, the Christmas Carol...

The Christmas carol, "Silent Night, All is calm, all is bright" originated in Austria on this day (24-dec) in 1818... 

"Silent Night" stands out for its simplicity, yet profound impact...  Its heartfelt lyrics and gentle melody capture the essence of Christmas, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility...  

The story of its humble origin, composed for a small Saint Nicholas church in Oberndorf, a town in the State of Salzburg, Austria - adds to its charm, making it a special and enduring part of holiday traditions worldwide...

"Silent Night," composed by Franz Xaver Gruber for the lyrics of Joseph Mohr, the priest, still stands as a timeless Christmas classic...

The 150 years of "Silent Night" was honored by the Austrian Postal Administration with the release of a 2-Austrian schilling postage stamp in 1968...

The text on the stamp in German translates to... 

   150 Jahre Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht - 150 years of Silent Night Holy Night

   Krippe der Gedächtniskapelle Oberndorf - Salzburg - Nativity scene of the memorial

                                                                                                                    chapel Oberndorf - Salzburg

    Republik Österreich - Republic of Austria

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Christmas...

(b) Biblical accounts...
(c) Religion...

(d) Feasts...

(e) Carving items / Architecture...

(f) Anniversaries / Jubilees... 

23-December... Demonstration of Transistors...

Transistors, the tiny semiconductor devices, which shaped the pulse of digital world was demonstrated on this day (23-dec) in 1947...

The first public demonstration took place at Bell Laboratories in Murray Hill, New Jersey...  It was jointly demonstrated by John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley... This day paved the way for transformative advancements in the field of Electronics...

The transistor's invention catalyzed a technological revolution, enabling the development of smaller, more efficient electronic devices...  From microprocessors to smartphones, transistors became the fundamental building blocks of modern computing and communication systems... 

Transistors which ushered an era of unprecedented connectivity, was recognized by the United States Postal Administration with the release of a 8-cents postage stamp in 1973 marking the Progress in field of Electronics... 

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Science and Technology...

(b) Inventions...

(c) Telecommunication...

22-December... Re-opening of Brandenburg Gate...

On this day (22-dec) in 1989, the Brandenburg Gate was re-opened symbolizing freedom and the desire to unify the city of Berlin... 

The Brandenburg Gate is an iconic neoclassical monument located in Berlin, Germany...  Completed in 1791, it has since become a symbol of German unity and history...  This grand structure once marked the entrance to the boulevard leading to the Royal city palace, and it later stood at the heart of Cold War divisions, straddling East and West Berlin...

The Brandenburg Gate has witnessed pivotal moments, including the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, and it now stands as a powerful symbol of peace and reunification...

The Brandenburg Gate was honored by the Third Reich Postal Administration, also known as Deutsche Reichspost, with the release of 25 plus 50 German reichspfennig postage stamp in 1941...

The text on the stamp in German translates to... 

                Deutsches Reich - German Empire

                Grosser Preis der Reichshauptstadt - Grand Prix of the Imperial Capital

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Architecture...

(b) Horse...

(c) Gateway...

21-December... Discovery of Radium...

Marie Curie and Pierre Currie jointly discovered Radium on this day (21-dec) in 1898, revolutionizing the understanding of radioactivity...

During the discovery, the Curies' isolated Radium from Uranium ore, unveiling its unique properties and intense glow... This significant finding not only expanded the periodic table but also laid the foundation for advancements in medical treatments, particularly in Cancer therapy... 

The Curies' dedication and pioneering research earned them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903, marking a crucial moment in the history of Science and Radiation studies...

French Postal Administration marked the 40th anniversary of the Discovery of Radium with the release of concerted charity joint postage stamp valued at 1f 75 French francs plus 50 cents in 1938...

The concerted charity joint postage stamp was released by the Postal Administration's of French colonies which included Cameroon, Dahomey, French Equatorial Africa, French India, French Guinea, French Guyana, Guadeloupe, Indochina, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Martinique, Mauritania, New Caledonia, Niger, Reunion, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Senegal, Somali Coast, Sudan and Togo...  The concerted charity joint stamp was also released by Afghanistan, Paraguay and Cuba, which were not French Colonies...

The text in French on the stamp translates to... 

           Pierre et Marie Curie découvrent le Radium - Pierre and Marie Curie discovered Radium

           Union Internationale Contre le Cancer  - International Union against Cancer

           R.F. stands for Republique Francaise (French Republic)

This stamp can be collected under the themes: 

(a) Science and Technology...

(b) Concerted Joint Stamps...

(c) Charity Stamps...

(d) Discovery...

(e) Nobel Laureates...

(f) Scientists...

(g) Anniversaries / Jubilees... 

20-December... Death anniversary of Maharaja Chhatrasal...

 

A formidable Bundeli warrior and a key figure in Indian history during the 17th century, Maharaja Chhatrasal was remembered on this day (20-dec)... 

Renowned for his valor and military prowess, Chhatrasal staunchly resisted the Mughal Empire's dominance, upholding an unwavering commitment to independence...  His strategic alliance with Maratha leaders and his steadfast resistance against the Mughals exemplified his resolute pursuit of regional autonomy...

Chhatrasal, the Maharaja of Bundelkhand was honored by India Post with the release of a 60 paise postage stamp in 1987, immortalizing his enduring legacy...  

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

              छत्रसाल - Chhatrasal

              भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Maharajas / Kings...

(b) Animals / Mammals / Horse...

(c) Warriors...

(d) Sword...

(e) Horse riding / Equestrianism...

19-December... Goa Liberation Day...

The day (19-dec) marks the liberation of Goa, along with Daman and Diu, from Portuguese rule and its integration into the Indian Union... 

Goa Liberation Day, marks the historic moment when India successfully liberated Goa from Portuguese colonial rule in 1961...  The military operation, known as "Operation Vijay", resulted in the integration of Goa, Daman, and Diu into the Indian Union... 

The day holds immense cultural and patriotic significance, celebrating the restoration of Goan identity and the end of centuries-long foreign dominance...

The 50th anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of Goa Liberation Day was commemorated by India Post with the release of a 5 rupees postage stamp in 2011... 

The text in Hindi on the stamp translates to... 

              गोवा मुक्ति - स्वर्ण जयंती - Goa Liberation - Golden Jubilee

              भारत - India

This stamp can be collected under the following themes: 

(a) Flags...

(b) Lighthouses...

(c) Trees...

(d) Anniversaries / Jubilees...

(e) Forts...