“Kalevala” is an epic poem that Lönnrot compiled from Finnish folklore. It is held to be the national epic of Finland and is traditionally considered one of the most significant works of Finnish-language literature. The work is said to have served as one of the inspirations for the national awakening that ultimately led to Finland’s independence from Russia in 1917.
In Spain, today is Andalusia Day. Andalusia is an autonomous community of Spain and is the most populated and second largest of the 17 autonomous communities that constitute Spain. Andalusia is the home of bullfighting and flamenco dancing. Andalusia Day commemorates the date of the successful autonomy referendum vote on Feb. 28, 1980.
Today is Peace Memorial Day in Taiwan. This day commemorates the 228 Incident, which refers to an uprising that started in the Republic of China (Taiwan) on Feb. 27, 1947, and was suppressed by the Kuomintang, resulting in the killings of 30,000-60,000 civilians on Feb. 28. This event is now commemorated in Taiwan as Peace Memorial Day.
Today is Purim in the Jewish tradition. This is the most joyous Jewish feast, commemorating the saving of the Jews of Shushan as recounted in the Megillah, the Book of Esther. It commemorates a time when Jews living in Persia were saved from the oppression of Haman by a young Jewish queen named Esther. Purim is celebrated on the 14th day of Adar. The word “Purim” means “lots” and refers to the lottery that Haman used to choose the date for the massacre of the Jews there.
Today is Magha Puja Day, also known as the Fourfold Assembly Day or Sangha Day, in the Buddhist tradition. Magha Puja Day is considered one of the most important Buddhist celebrations. It refers to the worship that takes place on the full moon of the third lunar month (in February or early March) to commemorate the day on which Buddha recited the “Ovada Patimokkha” (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples.
Gregorian Calendar: 27 February 2010 C.E.
Hijri Calendar: 13 Rabi Al-Awwal 1431 A.H.
Hebrew Calendar: 13 Adar I 5770
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