On this day in history, Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa after 21 years, joining the fight for independence.

Approximately 105 years ago, on January 9, thousands of Congress workers awaited the arrival of Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba Gandhi at Apollo Bunder in Mumbai.

Gandhi, who went to South Africa in 1893 at the age of 24, returned to India at the age of 45, having become an experienced lawyer.

Gandhi's return marked a crucial time in India's struggle for independence, with various opinions on the approach to achieving freedom.

Two years after returning to India, Gandhi initiated the Champaran Satyagraha in Bihar, marking the beginning of his nonviolent resistance for independence.

On January 9, 1982, the first Indian expedition team reached the icy continent of Antarctica, led by Dr. Sayyed Zahur Qasim, focusing on scientific research.

Notable events on January 9 include Lionel Messi winning the FIFA Ballon d'Or in 2012 and Michael Jackson receiving the American Music Award for Artist of the Century in 2002.

In 1970, Singapore adopted its constitution, while in 1941, a tragic event unfolded with the mass killing of six thousand Jews in Bucharest, Romania.

The renowned singer Mahendra Kapoor, known for his mesmerizing voice, was born on January 9, 1934, delivering timeless hits like "Mere Desh Ki Dharti."

On this day in 1768, Philip Astley presented the world's first modern circus performance, marking a significant milestone in entertainment history.