What Happened This Year 1946

Born in 1946

Srikanta Wadiyar

Indian politician and Maharaja of Mysore
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
December 10th, 2013 11 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the titular Maharaja of Mysore after the princely states were integrated into India. Played a role in the cultural and social development of Karnataka. Actively engaged in various philanthropic efforts throughout the region. Held a position of dignity and traditional leadership in Mysore, significantly influencing local governance and community initiatives.

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Ahmad Zahir

Afghan singer-songwriter, folk music figure
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1979 46 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent figure in Afghan music, he combined traditional Afghan melodies with modern sounds. His career spanned the late 1960s to the late 1970s, during which he gained widespread popularity. Zahir released numerous songs that resonated with young audiences and addressed social themes. His music often featured instruments such as the rubab and harmonium. Following his untimely death in 1979, his songs continued to influence Afghan music and remain popular among fans of the genre, ensuring his legacy as a cornerstone of Afghan folk music.

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Jean-Baptiste Bagaza

Burundian politician and former president
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
May 4th, 2016 9 years ago — 70 years old

Served as president of Burundi from 1976 to 1987 after leading a military coup. Oversaw a period marked by attempts at modernization and national development. Established a one-party state and faced significant opposition during his tenure. Exiled after being ousted from power. Returned to Burundi in the 1990s and engaged in various roles in political and national matters.

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Sanjay Gandhi

Indian engineer and politician
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1980 44 years ago — 34 years old

An engineer and politician, focused on urban development and industrialization in India. Served as the Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation and served in a prominent role during the Emergency period in India. Launched initiatives aimed at promoting family planning, as well as automating and expanding the aviation sector. Associated with various controversies during political tenure.

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Susan Backlinie

American actress and stuntwoman
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
May 11th, 2024 1 years ago — 78 years old

Significant contributions to film as an actress and stuntwoman included roles in classic horror films. Achievements in performing stunts and acting complemented work in the entertainment industry, particularly in the realm of horror cinema. Gained recognition for performances that showcased both acting and physical skills, influencing the portrayal of female characters in action sequences. Collaborated with prominent filmmakers and participated in various significant projects throughout a career that extended over several decades.

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Fernando Brant

Brazilian journalist and composer
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 12th, 2015 10 years ago — 69 years old

Significant contributions were made in Brazilian music and journalism. Collaborated extensively with important Brazilian musicians, notably with Lô Borges. Involved with the Clube da Esquina movement, which blended various musical styles and influences. Worked as a journalist, contributing to national publications and providing insights into Brazilian culture and arts. Authored numerous songs that became pivotal in the MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) genre.

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Junior Murvin

Jamaican reggae singer-songwriter
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2013 11 years ago — 67 years old

A reggae singer-songwriter emerged in the 1970s. Gained recognition with the release of the hit song 'Police and Thieves' in 1976. This track became an anthem in the reggae genre, later covered by various artists, including The Clash. Worked with producer Lee 'Scratch' Perry, contributing to the distinct sound of this era. Released multiple albums throughout the career, with a notable style that incorporated elements of soul and rock.

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Miguel Piñero

Actor and playwright of 'Short Eyes'
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1988 37 years ago — 42 years old

An influential Puerto Rican-American playwright and actor, contributed to the American theater landscape through the depiction of urban life. Authored the acclaimed play 'Short Eyes', which premiered in 1974 and garnered attention for its raw portrayal of life in prison. Served as a voice for marginalized communities, bridging cultural gaps through storytelling. Active in the New York theater scene, received several accolades for works that examined complex social issues.

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Belchior

Brazilian singer and composer of música popular
Born
1946 79 years ago
Died
April 30th, 2017 8 years ago — 71 years old

This Brazilian artist gained prominence in the 1970s with a distinctive combination of MPB (Música Popular Brasileira) and traditional Brazilian styles. Achieved acclaim for lyrical depth and socio-political themes in music. Gained widespread recognition for the song 'Apenas um Rapaz Lato Sensacional', which became an anthem of the generation. Released multiple influential albums, notably 'Alucinação', which further cemented a reputation as a standout singer-songwriter in Brazilian music.

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