This Day in History: January 16
Kanuma Festival
Telugu communities observe the culmination of the three-day Kanuma Festival today. After indulging in pastries and sweets for the initial two days, celebrants now partake in a meat feast. In various locations, the festivities take on diverse forms, with people indulge in the joy of flying kites.
National Startup Day (16 January 2021)
On January 16, 2021, the Indian government designated this date as National Startup Day, a special occasion to acknowledge and commend the contributions of Indian startup companies and the valuable services they offer.
Referendum on Goa, Daman, Diu (16 January 1967)
In 1967, a pivotal referendum was conducted on the status of Goa, Daman, and Diu post-British rule. The people of Daman and Diu advocated for a union territory, while the citizens of Goa expressed their preference for statehood in the referendum.
Start of Vaccination (16 January 2021)
On this day in 2021, India commenced its vaccination campaign against the COVID-19 pandemic. The vaccine emerged as a symbol of hope during a tumultuous period, overcoming initial doubts and misconceptions to become a testament to India’s achievement in vaccinating over 156 crore individuals.
Other Notable Events
- Today marks the birthday of the renowned West Bengal writer Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay.
- Actors Sidharth Malhotra and Vijay Sethupathi are also celebrating their birthdays today.
- In 1761, the British assumed control of our Pondicherry region from French rule.
- South African activist Nelson Mandela was honored with the Bharat Ratna Award.
- The National Security Guard (NSG) was officially recognized on this day in 1985.
- Remembering the birth anniversary of former senior Congress Party leader Jaipal Reddy (1942).
