Introduction:
August 2023 arrives with a profound sense of significance as it brings a multitude of important days, each dedicated to a unique cause or historical event. At Reboot Brand Agency, we understand the importance of staying connected to the world around us and all its meaningful occasions. In this blog, we celebrate and delve into the various days that make August 2023 a month to remember.
1st August – World Wide Web Day:
It honors the freedom to access information through the WWW, a tool connecting billions worldwide to the Internet. Created by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989 at CERN, the web has been revolutionizing how we access information and connect with people globally.
1st – 7th August – World Breastfeeding Week:
It commemorates the 1990 Innocenti Declaration. Since its inception in 1992, WBW themes have covered various aspects like healthcare systems, women and work, marketing of breastmilk substitutes, community support, ecology, economy, science, education, and human rights. Aligned with SDGs since 2016, WBW 2023 will focus on breastfeeding and employment, engaging stakeholders to empower families and create breastfeeding-friendly work environments in the post-pandemic era.
4th August – International Beer Day:
It is a delightful celebration of one of the world’s oldest and most cherished beverages. The first Friday in August is a day for beer lovers everywhere to raise a toast to the brewers and bartenders, and rejoice in the greatness of beer!
4th August – International Clouded Leopard Day:
It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the majestic clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) and the ongoing efforts to enhance their conservation status. These striking wild cats, also the state animal of Meghalaya, have been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2008. The day serves as a reminder to conserve both these fascinating creatures and their natural habitat.
6th August – Friendship Day:
Celebrated on the first Sunday of August in India and several other nations, it is a heartwarming occasion dedicated to honoring cherished bonds and the significance of friendship.
7th August – National Handloom Day:
It honors the rich Indian tradition of handloom weaving and the skilled artisans behind these masterpieces, in addition to raising awareness about the handloom industry’s socio-economic significance. The day holds historical significance as it commemorates the Swadeshi Movement’s launch on August 7, 1905.
8th August – International Cat Day:
It is a purr-fect opportunity to celebrate our feline friends and their mysterious charm. The day is devoted to raising awareness for cats and discovering ways to support and protect them. The theme for 2023 revolves around “purrfect play every day.’
8th August – International Moon Bear Day:
It is dedicated to raising awareness about the beautiful Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) commonly called as moon bears, and the challenges faced by them. Currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, they require attention and support for their conservation.
9th August – International Day of the World’s Indigenous People:
The date marks the first meeting, in 1982, of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations. Since then, it has been dedicated to celebrating the invaluable cultural heritage and contributions of indigenous communities globally. Also, the day serves as a poignant reminder that they hold the right to make their own decisions that resonate with their unique cultural identity. The theme for 2023 focuses on ‘Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination’.
9th August – Book Lover’s Day:
It is a joyous occasion for bibliophiles to immerse themselves in the magic of books and storytelling.
10th August – World Lion Day:
It raises awareness about lion conservation and the imperative to safeguard these majestic creatures, often referred to as the ‘king of the jungle.’ Lions have commanded a significant place in India’s culture throughout history, and are an integral part of India’s National Emblem.
India takes pride in being the home of the mighty Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica), designated as the state animal of Gujarat. Presently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, efforts to preserve and safeguard these wild cats are of paramount importance.
10th August – World Biofuel Day:
This day is observed to highlight the significance of sustainable energy sources for environment and socio-economic development, and showcasing the ongoing efforts in this direction. The day takes inspiration from German engineer Sir Rudolf Diesel, who achieved a remarkable feat on August 9, 1893, by running an engine on oil derived from peanuts.
12th August – International Youth Day:
Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1999, it celebrates the potential of young people as agents of change, shines a spotlight on youth issues and recognizes their role as vital partners in the global community. The theme for 2023 is ‘Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World’.
12th August – World Elephant Day:
It advocates for conservation and welfare of these gentle giants, cherished and revered by cultures worldwide. These jumbos hold special significance in India and throughout Asia-Africa, as represented through Ganesha and his adaptations, Panchatantra fables, Jataka tales, or various African traditions. India is home to the Asiatic elephants (Elephas maximus), listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List since 1986. They’re the state animal of Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, and Odisha; and the Natural Heritage Animal of India.
13th August – International Left Handers Day:
It is a day to celebrate the left-handed individuals, recognize their uniqueness, and also raise awareness of the everyday issues that they face in a predominantly right-handed world.
13th August – World Organ Donation Day:
It is observed to educate people on the importance of organ donation, encourage them to help save lives, and dispell misconceptions surrounding the process. The day also brings attention to the remarkable strides achieved in the field of organ donation and transplantation since the pioneering success of Ronald Lee Herrick’s kidney donation to his identical twin brother in 1954.
13th August – International Wolf Day:
It is a day dedicated to promoting wolf conservation for the vital role wolves play in our ecosystem, and dispelling myths surrounding these intelligent creatures. Throughout history, they have featured prominently in folklore, mythology, and spiritual beliefs worldwide. India is home to two subspecies of Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) – Indian Gray Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) spread across peninsular India; and the Himalayan wolf (Canis lupus chanco), found in the Upper Trans- Himalayan range. Both are listed as Endangered under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The IUCN classifies the wolf as of Least Concern on its Red List, due to its relatively widespread range and stable global population.
14th August – Partition Horrors Remembrance Day:
This day commemorates the partition of pre-independence India into India and Pakistan, a heart-wrenching event that caused immense suffering and loss for millions of people. It serves as a solemn reminder of that tragic time, the wounds of which still persist.
15th August – Independence Day:
This day holds tremendous ground among the national days of India, since it reminds every Indian about the hard-won independence after a long and arduous struggle, marked by the sacrifices of freedom fighters. On this day in 1947, India declared independence from British colonialism, entrusting control to its own leaders. The nation joyously celebrates the occasion, displaying unwavering patriotism and reaffirming its commitment to progress and peace.
16th August – Parsi New Year:
The festival of Navroz marks a fresh beginning, and cultural celebration for the Parsi Community of India, as per the Shahenshahi calendar.
19th August – World Photography Day:
This day pays tribute to the art of capturing moments, and celebrates the craft, science and history of photography, an integral visual medium in our lives. It recognizes the invention of Daguerrotype – a photographic process developed by Louis Daguerre and Joseph Nicephore Niepce, which revolutionized the field. It was made freely available to the world on 19th August 1839, by the French Government, two years after its creation. OP Sharma, an Indian Photographer, mobilized the international photography community to mark this special occasion.
19th August – Teej:
Hariyali Teej is an important Hindu festival celebrated on the Tritiya of Shukla Paksha in the Shrawan month, honouring the divine union of Bhagwan Shiv and Mata Parvati. Legend has it that Bhagwan Shiv accepted Parvati as his consort on this day, which led to her being known as ‘Teej Mata’. Married women observe fast for the well-being of their husbands, as it has the same significance as Karwa Chauth.
19th August – World Humanitarian Day:
It is in the honor of thousands of aid workers, volunteers, and professionals, who tirelessly work for humanitarian causes and support communities in crisis. It marks the day in 2003 when a bomb attack in Baghdad, Iraq, killed 22 humanitarian aid workers, including then UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Iraq. Five years later, it was designated as WHD by UN General Assembly, aiming to bring together partners from across the humanitarian system to advocate for the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crises, and for the safety and security of aid workers.
19th August – World Orangutan Day:
This day is to raise awareness about the amazing orangutans and encourage the welfare of their habitat. Interestingly, the term ‘Orangutan’ translates to ‘man of the forest’ in Malay, and they’ve been found to be the closest living relatives to humans. All three species of these great apes of Asia, Bornean, Sumatran, and Tapanuli, are listed as critically endangered as per IUCN Red List.
20th August – Akshay Urja Diwas:
It strives to raise public awareness in India about the utilization of efficient and environment-friendly renewable energy sources and technology for a sustainable future. It also celebrates the advancements made in the renewable energy sector, and set new goals.
20th August – World Mosquito Day:
It commemorates Sir Ronald Ross’s discovery of the link between mosquitoes and malaria, which advanced the understanding of the mosquitoes and their role in the disease. It also marked a crucial point for prevention efforts. More than 120 years later, mosquito-borne diseases continue to be both widespread and devastating. The day focuses raising awareness about the causes, precautions, and treatments for such diseases, aiming to save more lives.
20th – 29th August – Onam:
It is a 10 day vibrant harvest festival celebrated predominantly by Malayalis. The festival occurs on the 22nd nakshatra Thiruvonam in the Chingam month of the Malayali calendar, also marking the beginning of the Malayali year, Kolla Varsham. It holds significance in both mythology and old agrarian practices. The legend has it that the devas envied the virtuous daitya king of Kerala, Mahabali, and his kingdom’s prosperity, that they sent Bhagwan Vishnu disguised as Vamana to test him. Vamana asked for three feet of land but measured all the worlds with two steps. Mahabali offered his head for Vamana’s third step. Pleased by his benevolence, Vamana banished him to pataal but granted him the opportunity to visit his people once a year. Onam commemorates the Vamana avatar of Vishnu and subsequent homecoming of Mahabali. Pookkalam (rangoli), Vallam Kali (boat races), Kummattikali (mask dance) are some of the remarkable features of the festival.
21st August – World Senior Citizen’s Day:
It honors the valuable contributions and wisdom of the elderly. It also serves as a reminder to increase awareness about the crucial matters affecting older adults, such as health deterioration and elder abuse.
21st August – Nag Panchami:
It is a traditional festival across Hindu, Jain and Buddhist cultures, honoring Nag or snakes with mythical significance. It takes place on the Panchami of Shukla Paksha in the month of Shravan. The devotees worship serpents and seek their blessings, as they hold a prominent place in the belief systems, being associated with various deities and historical events.
21st August – World Entrepreneurs’ Day:
It celebrates the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, and recognizes the pivotal role entrepreneurs play in job creation, economic growth, and effective problem-solving. It serves as a tribute to their remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions in shaping a new and progressive world.
22nd August – International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief:
This day is designated by UN General Assembly to deplore all acts of violence perpetrated on the basis of their religion or belief, and recognze the importance of providing victims of such with appropriate support and assistance in accordance with applicable law. It serves as a reminder to promote religious tolerance, respect, and understanding, advocating for a peaceful world.
23rd August – International Day for the Remembrance of Slave Trade and Abolition:
It is dedicated to commemorating the millions of lives lost and affected by the transatlantic slave trade, and collectively combating all forms of modern-day slavery to build just societies. Designated by UNESCO, the day marks the beginning of a historic uprising in 1791 in Haiti.
26th August – International Dog Day:
It is a day to show appreciation and love for our loyal canine companions. This day recognizes the importance of all dogs and aims to promote their welfare and adoption, as well as raise awareness about issues related to animal rights and responsible pet ownership.
29th August – National Sports Day:
It celebrates all sports, sportspersons and the spirit of sportsmanship in the country. Commemorating the birth anniversary of Indian hockey legend, Major Dhyan Chand, the day aims to promote values instilled by sports, such as discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. Also, it encourages the public to embrace sports as an integral part of their lives, emphasizing the significance of fitness and good health.
29th August – International Day against Nuclear Tests:
Designated by UN General Assembly, this day is dedicated to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of nuclear testing and nuclear explosions and advocates for a world free of nuclear weapons.
30th August – National Small Industry Day:
It recognizes the vital role of small industries in a nation’s economic growth. The day is also an opportunity for the government to promote and back these industries, as they play a significant role in generating employment opportunities for a considerable number of people in India.
30th August – Raksha Bandhan:
It is a cherished Hindu festival that celebrates the bond between siblings. It has various legends and stories associated with its origin and significance. Observed on the Purnima of Shukla Paksh of Shrawan month, sisters tie rakhi, a sacred thread, around their brothers’ wrists as a symbol of love, protection, and bond. In return, brothers promise to safeguard their sisters throughout their lives.
30th August – International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances:
Designated by UN General Assembly, tt is dedicated to raising awareness about the grave issue of enforced disappearances and seeking justice for the victims and their families. Enforced Disappearances, wherein individuals are apprehended, detained, or abducted against their will, either by government or organized groups, effectively depriving them of legal protection, remains a distressing tactic employed worldwide to suppress dissent and instill fear.
30th August – International Whale Shark Day:
This day aims to raise awareness about the whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), the largest of the fish species that are alive. The day serves as an opportunity to marvel at these wondrous creatures and emphasize the need for international cooperation in promoting conservation efforts as the species is currently classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List.
31st August – Sanskrit Diwas:
This day pays homage to the ancient and sacred language of Sanskrit. It highlights the importance of preserving and promoting this language, which has played a significant role in shaping various aspects of Indian culture, literature, and knowledge systems.
