January 18 has been associated with a multitude of advancements in science, industry, culture, and public life not only in India but also globally. Various years on this date have witnessed the launch of new technologies, the establishment of influential institutions, and significant cultural exchanges. Moreover, it is the day of birth and death of several distinguished personalities whose arenas include literature, social reform, sports, cinema, and scholarship. The day epitomises a blend of innovation and contemplation through such events as early scientific demonstrations that revolutionised medical practice and a gathering of outstanding Freedom Movement leaders. Its historical facts include world achievements and personal stories, thus providing a glimpse into how the lives of individuals and the larger events have at times been interwoven in a deep and enduring manner.
Historical events that happened on 18th January
1896 – The X-ray machine was first demonstratedThis event marks the first official public display of an X-ray machine. Professor H.L. Smith showed it off after Wilhelm Röntgen discovered X-rays in late 1895. This quickly made this new scientific wonder known to the public. 1919 – The British company ‘Bentley Motors Limited’ was establishedSpace Shuttle Columbia’s STS-107 mission, which included Kalpana Chawla and On January 18, 1919, W.O. Bentley started Bentley Motors Limited in Cricklewood, North London. This was the beginning of a tradition of high-performance luxury cars that are famed for their racing success and iconic models. 1930 – the writer Rabindranath Tagore visited the Sabarmati Ashram of Mahatma GandhiThe famous writer Rabindranath Tagore met with Mahatma Gandhi at the Sabarmati Ashram. This was an important encounter when they talked about the fight for liberation.
On this day in history : Key events of 18th January
Birth anniversary
18th January in history is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the following personalities:Mahadev Govind Ranade (18 January 1842 – 16 January 1901)An Indian patriot, social reformer, academic, and judge. Ranade is known as the “Socrates of Maharashtra” because he actively participated in social reform efforts. Prarthana Samaj, Arya Samaj, and Brahmo Samaj had a significant impact on his life. Govind Ranade was one of the founders of ‘The Deccan Educational Society’. He also supported the formation of the ‘Indian National Congress’. Ranade supported Swadeshi and the use of local products.Vinod Kambli (18 January 1972)Vinod Kambli is a former Indian international cricketer who represented India as a left-handed middle order batsman, as well as Mumbai and Boland in South Africa. Kambli became the first cricketer to reach a century in a One-Day International on his birthday.Aparna Popat (18 January 1978 ) One of the top badminton players in India. She won the women’s singles championship in the 1998 French Open. She received the ‘Arjuna Award’ in 2005. Aparna Popat is thought to be the best shuttler in the country.Dave Bautista (18 January 1969)Professional wrestler turned actor recognised for acting roles in the films “Guardians of the Galaxy”, “Avengers”, and “Dune”.
Death anniversary
18th January in history is observed as the death anniversary of the following personalities:Kundan Lal Sehgal (11 April 1904 – 18 January 1947)Known for being an unrivalled vocalist in Hindi films, for his performances in a select few films such as Devdas (1936), his admirers admire him. Kundan Lal Sehgal can be considered Hindi cinema’s first superstar. Musical films from the 1930s and 1940s were popular with viewers because of their passionate performances and compelling vocals.Badrinath Prasad (12 January 1899 – 18 January 1966)A famous Indian mathematician, educator, and researcher recognised for his substantial contributions to Fourier series and summability theory, which earned him the Padma Bhushan honour in 1963Harivansh Rai Bachchan (27 November 1907 – 18 January 2003)He was a famous Indian poet and writer, a key figure in the Nayi Kavita (New Poetry) movement in Hindi, and the father of Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan. His humanistic poems and translations have had a lasting impact on Hindi literature, and he won the Padma Bhushan in 1976.
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