Biography of Lala Lajpat Rai

Born: January 28, 1865
Martyrdom: November17, 1928
Achievements: Popularly known as Lala Lajpat Rai; Founded the Indian Home League Society of America; became Congress President in 1920.

Lala Lajpat Rai was one of the foremost leaders who fought against British rule in India. He was popularly known as Punjab Kesari (Lion of the Punjab).

Lala Lajpat Rai was born on January 28, 1865 in village Dhudike, in present day Moga district of Punjab. He was the eldest son of Munshi Radha Kishan Azad and Gulab Devi. His father was an Aggarwal Bania by caste. His mother inculcated strong moral values in him.

Lala Lajpat Rai joined the Government College at Lahore in 1880 to study Law. While in college he came in contact with patriots and future freedom fighters like Lala Hans Raj and Pandit Guru Dutt. The three became fast friends and joined the Arya Samaj founded by Swami Daya Nand Saraswati. He passed his Vakilship Examination in Second Division from Government College in 1885 and started his legal practice in Hissar. Besides practicing, Lalaji collected funds for the Daya Nand College, attended Arya Samaj functions and participated in Congress activities. He was elected to the Hissar municipality as a member and later as secretary. He shifted to Lahore in 1892.

Lala Lajpat Rai was one of the three most prominent Hindu Nationalist members of the Indian National Congress. He was part of the Lal-Bal-Pal trio. The other two members of the trio were Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. They formed the extremist faction of the Indian National Congress, as opposed to the moderate one led first by Gopal Krishna Gokhale. Lalaji actively participated in the struggle against partition of Bengal. Along with Surendra Nath Banerjee, Bipin Chandra Pal and Aurorbindo Ghosh, he galvanized Bengal and the nation in a vigorous campaign of Swadeshi. Lalaji was arrested on May 3, 1907 for creating "turmoil" in Rawalpindi. He was put in Mandalay jail for six months and was released on November 11, 1907.

Lalaji believed that it was important for the national cause to organize propaganda in foreign countries to explain India's position because the freedom struggle had taken a militant turn. He left for Britain in April 1914 for this purpose. At this time First World War broke out and he was unable to return to India. He went to USA to galvanize support for India. He founded the Indian Home League Society of America and wrote a book called "Young India". The book severely indicted British rule in India and was banned in Britain and India even before it was published. He was able to return to India in 1920 after the end of World War.

After his return, Lala Lajpat Rai,led the Punjab protests against the Jalianwala Bagh Massacre and the Non-Cooperation Movement. He was arrested several times. He disagreed with Gandhiji's suspension of Non-Cooperation movement due to the Chauri-Chaura incident, and formed the Congress Independence Party, which had a pro-Hindu slant.

In 1928, British Government decided to send Simon Commission to India to discuss constitutional reforms. The Commission had no Indian member. This greatly angered Indians. In 1929, when the Commisssion came to India there were protests all over India. Lala Lajpat Rai himself led one such procession against Simon Commission. While the procession was peaceful, British Government brutally lathicharged the procession. Lala Lajpat Rai received severe head injuries and died on November17, 1928.

Biography of Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Born: May 9, 1866
Died: February 19, 1915
Achievements: Political guru of Mahatma Gandhi; one of the pioneers of the Indian national movement; founder of the Servants of India Society.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the pioneers of the Indian national movement. He was a senior leader of the Indian National Congress. Gokhale gave voice to the aspirations of millions of Indians who were looking for freedom from the British rule. Gandhiji considered him as his political guru. Apart from being a political leader, Gopalkrishna Gokhale, was also a social reformer. He founded the "Servants of India Society"-an organization dedicated to the cause of common people. Gopal Krishna Gokhale's contribution to the making of Indian nation is invaluable.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was born on May 9, 1866 in Kothapur, Maharashtra. His father Krishna Rao was a farmer who was forced to work as clerk, as the soil of the region was not conducive for agriculture. His mother Valubai was a simple woman. Gokhale received his early education at the Rajaram High School in Kothapur with the help of financial assistance from his elder brother. Later on he moved on to Bombay and graduated from Elphinstone College, Bombay in 1884 at the age of 18.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was one of the first generations of Indians to receive college education. He was respected widely in the nascent Indian intellectual community and across India. Education influenced Gokhale greatly. His understanding of the English language allowed him to express himself without hesitation and with utmost clarity. His appreciation and knowledge of history instilled in him a respect for liberty, democracy, and the parliamentary system. After graduation, he moved on to teaching, and took a position as an Assistant Master in the New English School in Pune. In 1885, Gokhale moved on to Pune and became one of the founding members of Fergusson College, along with his colleagues in Deccan Education Society. Gopal Krishna Gokhale gave nearly two decades of his life to Fergusson College and rose to become principal of the college. During this time, Gokhale came in contact with Mahadev Govind Ranade. Ranade was a judge, scholar, and social reformer, whom Gokhale called his guru. Gokhale worked with Ranade in Poona Sarvajanik Sabha of which Gokhale became the Secretary.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale entered public life in 1886 at the age of 20. He delivered a public address on "India under the British Rule", which was highly appreciated. Gokhale regularly contributed articles to Bal Gangadhar Tilak's weekly "Mahratta". Through his articles he tried to awaken the latent patriotism of Indian people. Soon, Gokhale was promoted as Secretary of the Deccan Education Society. When the Indian National Congress held its session in Poona in 1895, he was the secretary of the Reception Committee. From this session, Gokhale became a prominent member of the Indian National Congress. Gokhale was twice elected as president of Pune Municipality. For a while Gokhale was also a member of the Bombay Legislative Council where he spoke strongly against the then Government.

In 1902, Gokhale left the Fergusson College. He became a Member of the Imperial Legislative Council in Delhi. There he spoke for the people of the country in an able manner. Gokhale had an excellent grasp of the economic problems of our country which he ably presented during the debates. In 1905, Gokhale started a new society called "Servants of India Society". This society trained workers for the service of the country. In the same year, Gokhale went to England to voice his concerns relating to the unfair treatment of the Indian people by the British government. In a span of 49 days, he spoke in front of 47 different audiences, captivating every one of them. Gokhale pleaded for gradual reforms to ultimately attain Swaraj, or self-government, in India. He was instrumental in the introduction of the Morley- Minto Reforms of 1909, which eventually became law. Though the reforms sowed the seeds of communal division in India, nevertheless, they gave Indian access to the seats of the highest authority within the government, and their voices were more audible in matters of public interest.

Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a diabetic and asthmatic. Excessive assertion took its toll on Gokhale's health and ultimately he died on February 19, 1915.

5 Facts of Oman

The capital of Oman is Muscat

Oman has been one of the most isolated Arabian outposts that have maintained the traditional Bedouin culture. Despite its exceptional safety record, the Sultanate of Oman was seldom visited by foreigners until 1970. Things have changed as modern Oman is on par with the development pace set by neighboring Middle Eastern states such as UAE and Qatar. Sultan Qaboos bin Said overtook government in 1970 and propelled the nation towards economic reforms in health, education, construction, and social welfare. Here are five interesting facts that are bound to entice anyone to visit this beautiful land:

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

Oman has nearly 2,700 km of pristine coast untouched by hordes of visitors. A network of tracks and graded highways from Filim to Shwaymiyah makes these desolate sandy beaches accessible to public. There are a number of world-class beach resorts offering an array of activities including kite-surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Traditional fishing villages are only accessible by driving through narrow dirt tracks.

2

The first Oman World Fireworks Championships was held in 2010. It is one of the largest and most spectacular firework events in the world. Teams from six continents took part in the latest championship. The government of Oman has announced ongoing annual championships that will enhance the international reputation of Oman as a gateway to the Middle East.

3

Oman is one of the few countries where every major city has its own fort. Most of these forts were built around 1624 and 1744 during Al-Yarubi dynasty when Oman was considered one of the citadels of Arab civilization. Some of these forts such as Bahla and Nakhal are in pristine conditions. There are functioning water wells and secret tunnels ending many kilometers away from the edge of the fort wall.

4

Falajs is a unique irrigation system in Oman that dates back more than 2000 years. These water tunnels still play an important role in the irrigation system of the Sultanate. The World Heritage Committee has named five Falajs in its list of international importance.

5

Oman is famous for its world-renowned Frankincense route. Recent documentaries on National Geographic and Discovery channels have highlighted the importance of this route since the middle ages. In 2000, numerous sites on Frankincense trails were incorporated as world heritage sites including Frankincense land museum, Al Balid City, Khawr al Baleed, Khawr Ruri, Awbar, and Wadi Dukah.

5 Facts of Norway

The capital of Norway is Oslo

There are many interesting things about Norway as well as the history of Norway. Norway is one of the countries where the terrifying vikings came from. It is also a country with breaktaking views that would appease any tourist, so if you're planning a trip to Norway, good choice.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

Despite being the country where the vikings came from. Norway has been given the honor of being considered to be the most peaceful country in the entire world. This was determined by a survey that was done by the Global Peace index in 2007.

2

Norwegians also read more books than any other population in world. If you want to get into an intellectual conversation, going to Norway and speaking with some of the Norwegians is probably one of the best ways to do it. They are considered to be a very intelligent people.

3

During the middle of the 14th century, Norway had over one-third of its population killed off by the black plague that ravaged most of europe. Norway is believed to mean the path of the north.

4

Norway is considered to be one of the richest countries in the world. The reason for this is that Norwegians know what it means to work hard, and what is interesting is that they also understand that it is equally important to play just as hard. Norwegians are very active when it comes to recreation and getting exercise on a daily basis.

5

Norway is a part of the region that is considered Scandinavia. Scandinavian countries are: Norway, Sweden and Denmark. These three countries are where the vikings originated. Throughout ancient history, they were famous for raiding and pillaging countries throughout Europe. The vikings of that time have often been compared by historians to the terrorists of this age.

5 Facts of Northern Mariana Islands

The capital of Northern Mariana Islands is Saipan

The Northern Mariana Islands are located between Hawaii and the Philippines comprising of fourteen islands. They are along the Mariana Trench, which is the deepest area on earth at 35,810 feet. The Islands have some interesting things you might like to know about.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

The people living there are U.S. citizens. The government is a commonwealth who is politically united to the United States. They are a self-governing people. The majority of the people are of Asian or Pacific Islander descent, with the main religion on the island being Roman Catholic.

2

They have some fine tourist attractions. Tinian hosts The Tinian Dynasty, a luxurious stay including a casino, extravagant pools and top food choices. It is a haven in a most unexpected place full of play. This is also the historical spot where the U.S. bombers left to bomb Japan. Rota is another small, friendly island with pristine and little known beaches.

3

The island of Managaha has fine snorkeling. Situated with an intouched beach it is teeming with abundant marine life and coral reefs. The Triana Trench creates a view of blue and green waters specific to this little spot on earth, with unrivaled beauty.

4

You can sink to the bottom of the lagoon in a Submarine when you visit Saipan. This submarine is a surprise with velvet seats, air conditioning and wonderful portholes to view the awesome sea life as well as sunken WW2 planes, boats, props and jeeps. It is an unreal experiencing this underworld.

5

The Northern Mariana Islands has the lowest death rate in the world. 2 . 229/1000 says something about this little paradise. Living daily on the islands just might lengthen your life. One area that probably contributes to this is the small island of Rota where day to day living is a friendly and calm experience.

5 Facts of Norfolk Island

The capital of Norfolk Island is Kingston

Norfolk Island is a three by five mile slice of heaven located in the South Pacific, on volcanic rock. When you step onto Norfolk Island, you take a step back in time, to a place where you can just lay back and relax, leave all your cares and troubles on the mainland and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this island. Norfolk Island is easily accessible from Australia or New Zealand by taking a short flight directly across to the island. A holiday spent here lets you reconnect with yourself and those around you and brings you into the peace and lush surroundings of the island.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

There is not even one traffic light; Norfolk Island is a getaway of peace and serenity, where you dine on fresh fish from the ocean and fresh vegetables grown there on the island.

2

Many of the buildings were built by convicts in the late 1700's and these elegant Georgian buildings are still in use in the Kingston area and in the Arthur Vale Historic Area, (KAVHA) which is now World Heritage. These buildings are listed as a part of the Australia Convict Sites Inscription today.

3

There is much to do on Norfolk Island including Seaside Golf Course, which is a beautiful nine hole golf course right on the ocean, horseback riding, sea kayaking, shopping, tennis, scuba diving, target shooting and wind surfing.

4

The history of Norfolk Island is brutal. England took over the island in the 1800's and established two penal colonies. The last one was absolutely violent, but the inhabitants who also lived here took complete control of the fertile island and the Pitcaim culture was established and still maintains the island today. People come from all over the world to experience this unique way of life.

5

There is plenty of food and entertainment on the island with 20 restaurants, six night clubs, and many of the hotels have restaurants inside or on the deck.

5 Facts of Niue

The capital of Niue is Alofi

There are many places of interest in our world, of which some people have heard little about, and there are other beautiful, exotic places that many did not know even existed. Niue is an island situated in the South Pacific Ocean, and about 40 miles around, with a large coral reef surrounding the island, except at Alfoi, the capital of Niue, where there is about a 6 mile opening to the island. This island is company to other islands in close proximity, such as, Tonga, Cook Islands and the Samos. New Zealand services all of Niue's diplomatic relations, and Queen Elizabeth II serves as Head of State.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

Niue has become the world's first free WiFi country, with Apple being introduced to this country in the early 1980's. Each student has their own laptop computer, furnished by a project, One Laptop per Child.

2

Fishing, agriculture and tourisms lend to the economy of Niue. Most families grow their own fruits and vegetables to use, and sell in the market place. Exports include a wide variety of bananas, tapioca, yams, kumaros, copra, passion fruit, limes, vanilla, noni and taro. Island populations are migrating to New Zealand, so the island population continues to decrease. Grants from New Zealand, continues to pay public employees their wages.

3

Religious affiliations include, Congregationalist, Latter Day Saints, Catholics, Bahai, and Jehovah's Witnesses. English is mostly spoken with a New Zealand accent and the Niuean language is slowly decreasing.

4

Niue is a sports country with both men and women being involved in Rugby teams. The women are involved in Netball. Teams for Football, soccer, and lawn bowling have been organized. The island has a nine hole golf course, with this sport also increasing in popularity.

5

New Zealand is trying to increase the tourist industry, with Air New Zealand being the only air company to Niue. There is no public transportation so renting a vehicle or bicycle is a tourist must.

5 Facts of Nigeria

The capital of Nigeria is Abuja

Viewed by most as a country characterized by poverty and political warfare, Nigeria still has a lot of interesting things that can be enjoyed by people who make the effort of taking a closer look at the country. The culture of Nigeria and the community itself is quite exciting as the country and its people date back at least 9000 BCE. If you are planning to travel to Nigeria soon, you should at least know the basic facts about Nigeria. Here are 5 things you might not know yet about the Republic of Nigeria.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

Nigeria is officially known as the Federal Republic of Nigeria and is a country composed of 36 states. The capital city of Nigeria is Abuja. Nigeria is located in western Africa and shares borderlines with Benin on its western side, Chad and Cameroon in the east, and Niger in the northern region. Nigeria's ethnic population is strongly influenced by a mix of three groups, namely the Igbo, Yoruba and the Hausa.

2

Nigeria has the biggest population of any country in the continent of Africa. Exactly 1 out of 2 West Africans, 1 out of 4 Africans, and 1 out of every 5 persons originating from Africa is Nigerian. In terms of religion, Nigerians are roughly divided in half between Christians and Muslims with very small numbers of people who practice conventional religion.

3

The term Nigeria was derived from the Niger River that runs deep into the country. The name was given by Flora Shaw, who was the future wife of Baron Lugard, a colonial administrator of Great Britain. The name was coined during the late 19th century.

4

Nigeria is the most populous country within Africa and the seventh to rank in the world. Nigeria is also the most populous country around the globe wherein the majority of the population is black people. The country is also listed as one of the Next Eleven economies and is a component of the Commonwealth of Nations.

5

In terms of customs and responsibilities, travelers to Nigeria should expect at least one comprehensive customs check when entering and exiting Nigeria borders. Oftentimes, individual tourists are more harassed as compared with couple or group travelers. This is due to the fact that individual tourists may be foreign journalists, which to the eye of Nigerian officials are the ultimate suspect category to watch out for.

5 Facts of Niger

The capital of Niger is Niamey

Niger is one of the world's poorest countries but is rich in culture and history. Friendly locals love to show their country off to visitors and will not hesitate guide you toward the best markets and parks. The ancient towns of Agadez and Zinder are practically living museums and the natural landscape is breathtaking. Read on to discover five more things you might not know about this desert country.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

The W National Park spans areas in Niger, Benin and Burkina Faso. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park provides a safe habitat for leopards, warthogs, buffalo, baboons, elephants, cheetahs, lions, caracal and other exotic creatures. Over 350 species of birds can be viewed throughout the 10,000 square kilometer reservation. Guided treks and safaris offer the best opportunities for spotting the sometimes elusive animals.

2

The last known surviving herd of West African giraffes live near the southwestern city of Koure. For a small fee, visitors can view the herd at the local wildlife park.

3

The town of Baleyara is a great place to buy traditional crafts. Handwoven blankets in colorful patterns are a popular item. The country is also known for its woodworking, including bowls and carved spoons.

4

Hippos can be seen in the waters near Ayorou, a small riverside town in the southwest. The best way to see the hippos is by boat with a local guide.

5

Porridge, rice, beans and cous-cous are staple foods in Niger. Other popular foods are fari massa, fried dough served with salsa, koudagou, fried sweet potatoes, and kilishi, a beef jerkey that is covered in hot pepper sauce. Cool drinks like apollo, made from the baobab fruit, and bisap, made from hibiscus leaves, offer relief on a hot day.

5 Facts of Nicaragua

The capital of Nicaragua is Managua

Compared to other countries in Latin America, Nicaragua is still in the beginning phase of its tourist industry. This is the result of having spent much of the last three decades embroiled in a violent civil war. The country, however, does have a variety of unique things to see. These include its volcanoes and remote, largely unexplored islands.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

The city of Granada, also the oldest city in Nicaragua, is a few miles away from Managua, the nation's capital, and has colonial Spanish architecture that may be of interest to some sightseers. Those who are interested in old buildings may want to bring their cameras along and do some exploring. The city has six churches, an 18th century fort and a museum displaying ceramic artifacts from before the arrival of Christopher Columbus.

2

The volcanoes on Isla Ometepe are spectacular and largely unknown to most people outside of Nicaragua. Those interested in outdoor activities and exploration should find these extremely interesting, especially since there are two volcanoes on the island.

3

There is also Reservo Chacho Verde, also on Isla Ometepe, which is a nature reserve wherein the visitor to Nicaragua can explore and partake in such activities as kayaking, swimming and hiking. Apart from providing some of the best views of the Concepcion volcano, Chaco Verde also has beaches with volcanic sand. There are also organic farms and cabins on the reserve that may be rented.

4

For those who are interested in the local wildlife, the indigenous animals that may be seen include armadillos, sloths, jaguars and anteaters.

5

Apart from a problem with petty crime, the major dangers to the traveler to the country will come in the form of the potential for illness. Illnesses that can affect visitors include typhoid, hepatitis, and malaria. As with most major urban areas in the world (and especially in the Third World), it is best not to walk alone in Managua at night. Visitors should also get booster shots and vaccines to keep them from getting sick while on vacation in Nicaragua.

Biography of Dadabhai Naoroji

Born: September 4, 1825
Died: June 30, 1917
Achievements: First Indian to become a professor of the college; instrumental in the establishment of the Indian National Congress; was President of the Indian National Congress thrice; the Congress' demand for swaraj (self-rule) was first expressed publicly by him in his presidential address in 1906

Dadabhai Naoroji is fondly called as the "Grand Old Man of India". He is viewed as the architect who laid the foundation of the Indian freedom struggle.

Dadabhai Naoroji was born in a poor Parsi family in Bombay on September 4, 1825. His father, Naoroji Palanji Dordi, died when Dadabhai Naoroji was only four years old. He was raised by her mother Maneckbai who despite being illiterate herself ensured that Dadabhai Naoroji got best English education possible. As a student Dada Bhai Naoroji was very good in Mathematics and English. He studied at Elphinstone Institution, Bombay and on completion of his education he was appointed the Head Native Assistant Master at the Elphinstone Institution. Dadabhai Naoroji became a professor of Mathematics and Natural Philosophy at Elphinstone Institution at the age of 27. He was the first Indian to become a professor of the college.

Dadabhai Nauroji entered the political fray in 1852. He strongly opposed the renewal of lease to the East India Company in 1853. He sent petitions to the English government in this regard. But the British government ignored his pleas and renewed the lease. Dadabhai Naoroji felt that the British misrule of India was because of ignorance of the Indian people. He set up the Gyan Prasarak Mandali (Society for Promotion of Knowledge) for the education of adult menfolk. He wrote several petitions to Governors and Viceroys regarding India's problems. Ultimately, he felt that the British people and the British Parliament must be made aware of India's plight. In 1855, at the age of 30 he sailed for England.

In England, Dadabhai Naoroji joined several learned societies, delivered many speeches and wrote articles on the plight of India. He founded the East Indian Association on December 1st, 1866. The association was comprised of high-ranking officers from India and people who had access to Members of the British Parliament. Dadabhai Naoroji was elected to the British Parliament in 1892 from Central Finsbury as the Liberal party candidate. He got a resolution passed in British Parliament for holding preliminary examinations for the I.C.S. in India and England simultaneously. He also got the Wiley Commission, the royal commission on India expenditure, to acknowledge the need for even distribution of administrative and military expenditure between India and England.

Dadabhai Naoroji was instrumental in the establishment of the Indian National Congress founded by A.O. Hume in 1885. Thrice he was elected to the post of the President of the Indian National Congress, in 1886, 1893 and in 1906. During his third term, he prevented a split between moderates and extremists in the party. The Congress' demand for swaraj (self-rule) was first expressed publicly by him in his presidential address in 1906. Dadabhai Naoroji believed in non-violent and constitutional methods of protest. He died at the age of 92 on June 30, 1917.