India’s journey from its first cinematic steps to its position as a global AI powerhouse.

Significant Historical Milestones

• The Passing of Dadasaheb Phalke (1944): Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, the "Father of Indian Cinema," passed away in Nashik. He produced India’s first full-length feature film, Raja Harishchandra (1913). His legacy is honored annually through the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest cinematic honor.

• Loss of Meghnad Saha (1956): The world-renowned astrophysicist died on this day. He is best known for the Saha Ionization Equation, which revolutionized our understanding of the chemical and physical conditions in stars.

• Gandhi-Irwin Dialogue (1931): Mahatma Gandhi met Viceroy Lord Irwin at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. This crucial meeting paved the way for the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, a pivotal moment in the Civil Disobedience Movement.

• Football History in Calcutta (1982): The first-ever Jawaharlal Nehru International Gold Cup football tournament was organized in Calcutta (now Kolkata), marking a significant chapter for Indian sports.

• Indo-Nepal Rail Connectivity (1927): A landmark day for regional trade as India and Nepal were connected by rail for the first time.

Notable Birthdays on February 16

• Krishnadevaraya (1471): The legendary Emperor of the Vijayanagara Empire, under whose reign South India saw a golden age of art and literature.

• Wasim Jaffer (1978): The prolific Indian opening batsman and Ranji Trophy legend, known for his technical mastery and record-breaking domestic career.

• Mayank Agarwal (1991): Current Indian cricketer known for his aggressive top-order batting.

• Ghulam Mohammed Sheikh (1937): Internationally acclaimed painter, writer, and art critic.

Current Events: February 16, 2026

• India AI Impact Expo 2026: Prime Minister Modi inaugurated this flagship event today, highlighting India's commitment to ethical and impactful AI development. Global tech leaders like Sundar Pichai and Sam Altman are expected to attend the accompanying summit.

• Sabarimala Review Pleas: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear review petitions regarding the Sabarimala temple entry case, a high-interest legal development for the nation.

• Digital Hawala Crackdown: Security agencies in Jammu & Kashmir have reportedly frozen thousands of bank accounts as part of a major operation against "digital hawala" funding anti-India activities.