This Day in History: January 14

Bhogi Festival

Today marks the celebration of the Bhogi festival in Telugu states, the most significant festival for the Telugu people. Bhogi is the inaugural day of a three-day festival where bonfires are lit to combat the winter chill. Following this tradition, bhogi fruits are poured on children’s heads, and the festivities continue with the making of cakes and joyful kite-flying. It’s noteworthy that Sankranti is concurrently celebrated as Lohri in North India, Pongal in Tamil Nadu, and in West Bengal.

Shobhan Babu Jayanti (14 January 1937)

Today commemorates the birth anniversary of actor Shobhan Babu, a revered hero in Telugu cinema. Born on January 14, 1937, in the NTR district of AP, Shobhan Babu, originally named Uppu Shobhana Chalapati Rao, made his film debut in 1959 with ‘Bhakta Sabari.’ His illustrious career spanned nearly 200 films. Shobhan Babu left a lasting legacy in the industry until his passing from a heart attack on March 20, 2008, in Chennai.

Third Battle of Panipat (14 January 1761)

On this day in history, the Third Battle of Panipat unfolded on January 14, 1761, marking a fierce war between the Maratha royals and Afghan ruler Ahmad Shah Durrani. The battleground, situated in present-day Haryana’s Panipattu region, witnessed this significant clash for the third time, hence earning the name the Third Panipattu War.

Launch of Internet Services (14 January 2005)

In 2005, Indian telecom company BSNL introduced brand bond services on January 14. Internet services were initiated in cities like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chennai, and Kolkata, later expanding to other cities as well.

Start of Telugu Broadcasts on Doordarshan (14 January 1987)

On January 15, 1987, a pivotal moment unfolded as Doordarshan began broadcasting in Telugu from Hyderabad. This strategic move by the Government of India, giving preference to Telugu over Hindi, involved connecting transmitters in 16 parts of AP to the Hyderabad Doordarshan Kendra, transforming television accessibility.

Other Notable Events

• On this day in 1998, singer MS Subbulakshmi was awarded Bharat Ratna.
• Birth anniversary of director and writer Jandhyala Subramanya Shastri.
• Birth anniversary of legendary actor Rao Gopal Rao, known for redefining villain roles.
• Birth anniversary of Surjit Singh Barnala, former Chief Minister of Punjab and Governor of united Andhra Pradesh.
• Birthday celebration of Jaya Prakash Narayana, founder of Lok Satta Party.
• On this day in 1966, the Tamil region of Madras State was renamed Tamil Nadu.
• In 2000, Bill Gates sold his software company, sold to Steve Ballmer.
• In 1982, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi launched the 20 Sutras programme.