July 28, 1946

1946Fahmida Riaz, Pakistani poet and activist (died 2018)^[†]

Fahmida Riaz was an Urdu writer, poet and activist from Pakistan. She authored many books, such as Godaavari, Khatt-e Marmuz, and Khana e Aab O Gil in addition to the first translation in rhyme of the Masnavi of Jalaluddin Rumi from Persian into Urdu. The author of more than 15 books of fiction and poetry, she remained at the center of controversies. When Badan Dareeda, her second collection of verses, appeared, she was accused of using erotic and sensual expressions in her work. The themes prevalent in her verse were, until then, considered taboo for women writers. She also translated the works of Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai and Shaikh Ayaz from Sindhi to Urdu. Fleeing General Zia-ul Haq's religious tyranny, Riaz sought refuge in India and spent seven years there.

1946Saint Alphonsa, first woman of Indian origin to be canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church (born 1910)^[†]

Saint Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception, born as Anna Muttathupadathu, was an Indian Catholic nun and educator. She is the first woman of Indian origin to be canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, and the first canonized saint of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church.