Dattajirao Gaekwad, Nation's Oldest Test Cricketer, Passes Away
Dattajirao Gaekwad, the nation's oldest Test cricketer, passed away at the age of 95. Gaekwad, a name synonymous with resilience, elegance, and sportsmanship, leaves behind a legacy that is etched in the annals of Indian cricket history. His contribution to the sport goes beyond just the runs he scored or the matches he played; it encompasses the spirit of cricket that he embodied throughout his life.
Gaekwad's Test debut for India came during the team's tour of England in 1952. Over the years, he became a mainstay in the Indian batting line-up, known for his technical proficiency and graceful stroke play. Gaekwad's tenure as the captain of the Indian cricket team highlighted his leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates. Under his captaincy, India achieved significant milestones, including notable performances against formidable international teams.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Dattajirao Gaekwad was revered for his contributions to cricket off the field. After hanging up his boots, he took to coaching and mentoring young cricketers, imparting the knowledge and experience he had gathered over the years. His commitment to nurturing the next generation of cricketers demonstrated his undying love for the game.
Renowned litterateur and Padma Shri awardee Usha Kiran Khan passed away. She was 78.
Khan's literary contributions earned her widespread recognition, including prestigious honours such as the Padma Shri in 2015, the Sahitya Akademi Award, the Mahadevi Verma Award, the Dinakar National Award, and the Bharat-Bharati, among others.
Usha Kiran Khan was celebrated for her versatile contributions to literature, penning several influential novels in Hindi and Maithili.
Feb 13, 2024
Katrina Kaif Joins Chennai Super Kings as Brand Ambassador for IPL 2024
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) officially announced the appointment of Katrina Kaif as their brand ambassador for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the five-time IPL champions, signalling a new chapter in their illustrious journey.
The announcement of Katrina Kaif as the brand ambassador came on the heels of CSK's newly inked sponsorship deal with Etihad Airways. This strategic partnership aligns with the team's vision of expanding its global reach and enhancing its brand image. Notably, Katrina Kaif also serves as the brand ambassador for Etihad Airways, making this collaboration a seamless fit for all parties involved.
Veteran Artist A. Ramachandran Passes Away
Renowned artist A. Ramachandran died from prolonged illness. He was 89.
Born in 1935 in Attingal, Kerala, Ramachandran was known for his monumental canvases, colourful oil and watercolour paintings.
In 2002, he was elected a Fellow of the Lalit Kala Akademi and received the Padma Bhushan for outstanding service to the nation in 2005. He was also conferred with an honorary doctorate by Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala in 2013. He is famous for his extensive research on Kerala temple murals.
Feb 12, 2024
World Marathon Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum Dies
Reigning marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum and his coach Gervais Hakizimana were killed in a road accident in the Rift Valley town of Eldoret in Kenya.
Kelvin had set the world record at the Chicago Marathon in October 2023 with a time of 2 hours and 35 seconds and surpassed the mark of 2:01:09 run by compatriot Eliud Kipchoge in Berlin in 2022.
Kiptum, a product of the high altitude region of Kenya which has produced most of the country's world renowned distance runners, started his international career on the half-marathon circuit in 2019.
IRS Officer Narendra Kumar Yadav Leads the "Fit India" Movement as Brand Ambassador
The Fit India Movement, a flagship initiative of the Government of India envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took a significant leap forward with the appointment of Narendra Kumar Yadav, Additional Director GST as its newest brand ambassador.
Narendra Yadav made history by becoming one of the youngest Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer in 2009, achieving this feat with a remarkable first-attempt success in the civil services examination.
His appointment as the brand ambassador for the Fit India Movement marked a historic milestone, as Narendra Yadav became the first-ever civil servant in India to hold such a prestigious position.
The Fit India Movement is a nation-wide initiative was launched by the Government of India, in 2019, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the aim of encouraging Indians to incorporate physical activity and sports into their daily lives. The movement envisions a healthier and fitter India, promoting the importance of physical fitness, mental well-being, and holistic wellness for all citizens.
Known for her elegant sarees in the UK's House of Lords, British-Indian politician Shreela Flather died at the age of 89.
Also, a teacher, she was a life peer as Baroness Flather of Windsor and Maidenhead in Berkshire.
As the Lifetime President of the Memorial Gates Council, she was instrumental in the creation of the iconic Memorial Gates at Hyde Park Corner in London as a tribute to the war efforts made by some 5 million Commonwealth soldiers during the World Wars.
Baroness Flather was a trailblazer, having been appointed as the first UK Asian Woman Justice of the Peace, Mayor and Baroness. She worked tirelessly for women's and girls' rights, and served the South Asian community in the UK.