This Day in History: January 18

NTR’s Death Anniversary (18 January 1996)

Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, former chief minister of united Andhra Pradesh, founder of Telugu Desam Party and famous film actor’s death anniversary is today. Born in Nimmakuru, NTR became a symbol of Telugu self-respect as a world-famous actor. NTR, who entered politics, after doing more than 300 films, breathed his last on 18 January 1996. Along with mythological films, he also made social films enlightening society from time to time. He brought TDP to power within 9 months of its establishment and created history. NTR, who was elected as the chief minister two times, also received the affection of all the people.

Inauguration of the Indian Parliament Building (18 January 1927)

The old Parliament building was opened on this day in 1927. Before the new Parliament building which was opened recently, this iconic building has served as the Parliament of India for the longest time. The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are both housed in a very spacious and robust building. This Parliament building has a unique place in the history of India.

Launch of Yahoo (18 January 1995)

The famous search engine Yahoo.com was launched on this day in 1995. While Yahoo competed with the likes of Google it made great waves in the industry in the first decade or so. Subsequently, Yahoo could not catch up with others, especially Google and has now remained a relic of its past glory.

First electric car (18 January 1997)

India’s first electric car ‘Reva’ was launched on this day in 1997. ‘REVA’ is an acronym for ‘Revolutionary Electric Vehicle Alternative’. Launched on this day in Bangalore, the company that made Reva was later taken over by the Indian car giant Mahindra & Mahindra in 2010. The latest electric offerings from Mahindra are still based on some of the technology used in Reva.

A few more important events on January 18th:

• Today is No Smoking Day in Canada.
• Today is National Michigan Day in the United States. The Michigan state which is four of the five Great Lakes of America, has the longest shoreline in all of the United States within the main stretch of the United States. When it comes to all of America, it stands second only to Alaska which is not connected to the rest of the states. Michigan consists of Lakes Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Superior.
• Sandalwood smuggler Veerappan’s birth anniversary also falls on this day (1952).