Historical Events & Notable Birthdays on February 16

On the 16th of February, a significant date in Indian history, we commemorate the passing of Dhundiraj Govind Phalke. Known affectionately as 'Dadasaheb Phalke', he left us on this day in 1944. Phalke, a pioneering figure in the Indian film industry, directed, produced, and wrote screenplays, earning him the title of the father of Indian cinema. His debut film, "Raja Harishchandra," released in 1913, marked the beginning of Indian storytelling through cinema.

Dadasaheb Phalke: The Father of Indian Cinema

Here is the list of major events on February 16 Over the years

	Year	Events of February 16
1	16 February, 1944	Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, known as 'Dadasaheb Phalke,' the father of Indian cinema, passed away. His film "Raja Harishchandra" (1913) marked the beginning of Indian cinema.
2	16 February, 1927	India and Nepal were connected by rail for the first time, strengthening travel and trade between the two nations.
3	16 February, 1931	Mahatma Gandhi met Viceroy Lord Irwin at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, an important step towards India's independence.
4	16 February, 1956	Meghnad Saha, a renowned Indian astronomer known for the Saha ionization equation, passed away.
5	16 February, 1958	Shoma Anand, Indian film and television actress known for her work in the 1980s and 1990s, was born.
6	16 February, 1978	Wasim Jaffer, Indian cricketer and record-breaking Ranji Trophy player, was born.
7	16 February, 1997	Pardeep Narwal, top raid-point scorer in Pro Kabaddi League history, was born.
8	16 February, 2015	RR Patil, Indian politician and former Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, passed away.
9	16 February, 2025	Celebrated as Rose Day, adding a floral significance to the date.