This Day in History: February 18

Lok Sabha approves Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014

The long-time dream of the Telangana people was to make Telangana a separate state. Many were martyred for this across multiple movements. Finally, on February 18, 2014, the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Bill of 2014 was introduced in the Lok Sabha. Lok Sabha broadcasts were stopped that day. The bill was introduced amid agitation and protests by MPs from the Andhra region. In the midst of this tussle, the Speaker approved the Andhra Pradesh State Reorganization Bill.

Also Read: Revanth Reddy Extends Birthday Wishes to KCR Through Special Letter

Daggubati Ramanaidu (June 6, 1936 – February 18, 2015)

Dr Daggubati Ramanaidu’s death anniversary is today. He was a Telugu film actor, famous producer and former MP. He got a place in the Guinness Book of World Records by producing more than a hundred films. He is described as ‘Movie Mogul’. In 1999, he contested as a TDP candidate from Bapatla constituency and was elected to the Lok Sabha. He contested the same seat in 2004 and lost. On 9 September 2010, the Government of India announced the Dadasaheb Phalke Award to Ramanaidu. He died of cancer on 18 February 2015 in Hyderabad.

Nandamuri Taraka Ratna (1983, February 22 – 2023, February 18)

Today is the death anniversay of Telugu film actor Nandamuri Taraka Ratna. Tarakaratna is the grandson of popular actor NT Rama Rao. He is the only son of Nandamuri Mohana Krishna. He made his debut on the Telugu screen with the movie Okato Number Kurradu. He acted in films like Yuvaratna, Bhadradri Ramudu and Nandeeswarudu. He was also very active in politics. During Nara Lokesh’s Yuvagalam yatra he collapsed on the spot due to a sudden heart attack. He died after a few days of treatment in a hospital in Bangalore.

Also Read: TSPSC Announces Results: Efforts to Accelerate Recruitment Process

Pluto Day

Pluto Day is celebrated every year on February 18 to celebrate the discovery of the planet. Until 2006 the dwarf planet was considered one of the nine planets in the solar system. The International Astronomical Society later decided that Pluto should not be considered a planet because it lacked the characteristics that a planet should have. Pluto was discovered by an American astronomer named Clyde Tombaugh.

A few more important events on February 18

• Today is actress Anupama Parameswaran’s birthday. She was born in 1996.

• Telugu stage and film actor, writer and director MS Chaudhary was born on February 18, 1978.