India, Oct. 9 -- Google Doodles have become a familiar sight for millions of internet users, with the search engine regularly changing its homepage logo to celebrate festivals, historical events, anniversaries and influential personalities. From colourful illustrations to interactive games, these designs have become a popular feature of Google Search.

(Also read: Google puts spotlight on idli with a special doodle: All about the popular South Indian dish's origin)

But did you know that the first Google Doodle was actually created as an unusual "out of office" message? Interestingly, the tradition began even before Google was officially incorporated as a company.

According to Google's official Doodles website, the idea dates back to Aug...