When the whole world celebrates children on 20th November, why does India, a country with a population of over one billion, choose 14th November to celebrate Children’s Day? This is not just a calendar coincidence. This date is witness to a unique love story that blossomed between the country’s first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and our beloved children. So let’s find out the emotional reason behind this change, which changed the global date of Children’s Day for us forever.
Why is Children’s Day celebrated?
Children’s Day is celebrated every year on 14 November as it is the birthday of the first Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Pandit Nehru loved children very much. He saw the future of the country in them. He believed that the foundation of any nation rests on a strong and educated childhood. He loved children so much that he would find time for them even during his busy political tours. Children also loved him very much and fondly called him “Chacha Nehru”. His pockets were always full of sweets or gifts for the children. Because of this close relationship, after the demise of Pandit Nehru, to pay tribute to him and remember his love for children, it was decided that his birthday would be dedicated to the children of the country.
Why 14th November and not 20th November?
It is interesting to know that International Children’s Day is celebrated on 20th November. The United Nations declared this day as Universal Children’s Day in 1954. November 20 was chosen because it was on this day in 1959 that the United Nations Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. India also celebrates this day and issues related to child welfare are discussed on this day. However, in India the main celebrations and events take place on 14 November only. This decision immortalized the respect for a national leader and his love for children.
What is the purpose of Children’s Day?
Children’s Day is not just a day of entertainment and holiday; It has a very broad purpose.
Awareness of Child Rights – This day reminds the society of the rights of children to education, health, safety and protection.
Emphasis on child education – Chacha Nehru’s dream was that every child in the country should be educated. This day inspires us to realize this dream.
Encouraging the talents of children – School competitions (like speech, essay, painting and sports) provide an opportunity to hone the hidden talents of children and boost their self-confidence.
Discussion on Child Welfare – This day provides an opportunity to discuss serious problems like child labour, malnutrition, poverty and child abuse and consider their solutions.