This Day in History: January 26
Republic Day of India
On January 26, 1950, the Constitution of India was officially adopted, marking the celebration of Republic Day. While India gained independence in 1947, the constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, officially declaring India a sovereign state. On this day, the President of India awards Padma Awards to deserving citizens.
State Formation Day of Uttar Pradesh
On January 26, 1950, the state of Uttar Pradesh was established, changing its name on the same day from United Provinces. The concept of celebrating Uttar Pradesh Day was proposed by then-Governor Ram Naik, with the first UP Diwas celebrated in 2018.
Birthday of Hero Ravi Teja
Ravi Teja, a self-made star in the Telugu industry, celebrates his 56th birthday today. Born on January 26, 1968, in Jaggampet, East Godavari district, his journey from an assistant director to a leading hero includes milestones like Idiot, Amma Nanna O Tamila Ammayi, Khadgam, Vikramarkudu, Kick, Raja the Great, and Waltair Veerayya.
Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open Victory
Japanese tennis sensation Naomi Osaka secured the world No.1 rank by winning the women’s singles title at the Australian Open 2019. Osaka defeated Petra Kvitova in the final, claiming her second consecutive Grand Slam title after winning the US Open.
Recognition of Hindi as India’s Official Language
According to Article 343 of the Indian Constitution, Hindi in the Devanagari script is recognized as the official language. On January 26, 1965, English lost its official language status alongside Hindi, as mandated by the Constitution in 1950. Despite government intentions to promote Hindi fully, the dual-language system persists, facing opposition in southern states where Hindi is less popular. Along with Hindi, another 22 Indian languages like Telugu, Tamil and Malayalam are also
Other Notable Events
- Today is tollywood actor Navdeep’s birthday. Born on January 26, 1985, he acted in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada films.
- Diana Fram Edulji born on January 26, 1956, is a former Indian women’s Test cricket all-rounder and the third-highest wicket-taker in Tests worldwide.
- The Supreme Court of India began functioning on January 26, 1950.
- Dr Rajendra Prasad assumed office as the President of India on January 26, 1950.
- On January 26, 1963, the Indian government declared the peacock as the national bird.
- The construction of the Eiffel Tower in Paris began on January 26, 1887.
