Children’s Day in India: It is an annual celebration on November 14th, marking the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of the country. Nehru, fondly known as “Chacha Nehru” (Uncle Nehru), had a deep affection for children, considering them as a building block for progressive India. His commitment to their welfare and education led to the establishment of Children’s Day.
Pandit Nehru’s affection for children was evident in his words, as he once famously said, “The children of today will make the India of tomorrow.” In his vision, they were not just the future but also the true reflection of a nation’s potential and values. Schools organize cultural programs, competitions, and activities for more creativity and joy among children. Sweets and gifts are distributed among the students as a part of the celebration.
In this article, we will learn about the facts of Children’s Day Celebration, its History of Children’s Day, and the person behind it. Also, we’ll see about the Importance of Children’s Day along with Children’s Rights and Children’s Day in India.
Children’s Day Celebration
When is Children’s Day Celebrated in India?
Children’s Day is celebrated in India on November 14, following the death of Jawaharlal Nehru, also known as Chacha Nehru. Nehru was a strong advocate for children’s rights and an inclusive education system. In 2018, sixty BJP MPs requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to designate December 26, the day of the martyrdom of Chhote Sahibzaade, as Children’s Day, while November 14 would be celebrated as “Chacha Diwas” in memory of Nehru. Nehru believed that children are the future of the country and the foundation of society.
When is International Children’s Day?
Children’s Day in Different Countries is celebrated on different dates in various countries around the world. However, the widely recognized Universal Children’s Day, established by the United Nations, is observed annually on November 20th. This date marks the anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
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History of Children’s Day
The celebration of Children’s Day in India is closely associated with the legacy of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the country’s first Prime Minister. Nehru, affectionately known as “Chacha Nehru” or “Uncle Nehru”, was not only a prominent political figure but also a great advocate for children’s rights and welfare. The history behind the celebration of Children’s Day in India is mainly because of Nehru’s deep affection for young minds and his belief in their immense potential.
Major historical reasons behind the celebration of Children’s Day include:
- Pandit Nehru’s Birthday: Jawaharlal Nehru was born on November 14, 1889. As a way of paying tribute to his love for children and his commitment to their well-being, it was decided to celebrate his birthday as Children’s Day.
- Nehru’s Love for Children: Pandit Nehru had a unique and warm rapport with children. He believed that they were the future of the nation and should be provided with the best possible education, care, and opportunities. His interactions with children were marked by his patience, kindness, and genuine interest in their well-being.
In 2018, sixty BJP MPs requested that December 26, the day of the martyrdom of Chhote Sahibzaade, be designated as Children’s Day, while November 14 would be celebrated as “Chacha Diwas” in his memory. The first Children’s Day was observed as “Flower Day” in 1948 to collect funds for the United Nations Appeal for Children (UNAC).
In 1951, V. M. Kulkarni recommended marking Nehru’s birthday as Flag Day for collecting funds for NGOs working for child welfare in India. In 1954, the day was first celebrated as “Children’s Day” with over 50,000 school children attending the celebrations in National Stadium in Delhi.
About Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
Jawaharlal Nehru, popularly known as Chacha Nehru, was a Prime Minister of India who prioritized children’s welfare and created an atmosphere where attention was focused on them. He established the Children’s Film Society India in 1955 to provide Indian children with representation. Nehru believed that the future of India depended on the children, and he believed that no amount of money spent on children and their mothers was too much.
He expressed this philosophy in letters written to Indira Gandhi, his daughter, and published as books. His children’s non-fiction works, Letters from a Father to His Daughter (1929) and Glimpses of World History (1934), have gained fame as children’s non-fiction due to their warm, affectionate tone and unique approach to historical facts.
However, Sir Walter Crocker noted in his biography Nehru: A Contemporary’s Estimate (1966) that Nehru did not have much time for or enjoyed the company of children. He did occasionally some acting on public occasions and before TV cameras, but his interest in children was very special and his acting was on the mark of his personality. His warm, affectionate tone and unique approach to historical facts made him a valuable figure in shaping India’s future.
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World Children’s Day 2023: Significance of Children’s Day
Established in 1954, World Children’s Day is celebrated annually on November 20th to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improve children’s welfare. Various stakeholders, including mothers, fathers, teachers, nurses, doctors, government leaders, religious and community elders, corporate moguls, media professionals, and young people, contribute to making World Children’s Day relevant for their societies, communities, and nations.
Children’s Day Messages
There are many special Children’s Day messages being displayed and communicated by the teachers’ in the school. Some of them include:
Messages:
- “Wishing all the little ones a day filled with laughter, joy, and endless possibilities. Happy Children’s Day!”
- “To the future leaders, artists, and innovators, may your day be as bright and wonderful as you make our world. Happy Children’s Day!”
- “May the innocence in your eyes and the purity of your heart stay forever unfaded. Wishing a very joyful Children’s Day to every kid in India.”
- “Celebrate the spirit of childhood today and always. Happy Children’s Day to the bundles of joy who make our world beautiful!”
- “To all the children, the hope of our future, here’s to a day filled with play, laughter, and endless fun. Happy Children’s Day!”
Children’s Day Celebration in India
Children’s Day is celebrated across India to honor Pandit Nehru’s birth anniversary. Educational institutions organize various events and programs to celebrate the day with fun activities. Children receive gifts, toys, and sweets, and teachers may perform. The celebration begins with stage speeches on Pandit Nehru, and children dress up in a specific Children’s Day Themes. They perform, dance, sing, or even drama.People should contribute to help underprivileged children by donating food, clothes, or books because even by contributing even a small amount towards their necessities, we can make a significant difference in their lives.
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Children’s Day Celebration in School
Celebrating Children’s Day in schools can be a joyful and memorable occasion. Here are some ideas and content to enhance the celebration in School:
- Special Assembly: Organize a special assembly dedicated to Children’s Day celebrations. Include performances such as dances, songs, skits, and speeches prepared by students. You can also invite teachers or special guests to address the children with inspiring messages.
- Decorations: Decorate the school premises with colorful balloons, streamers, banners, and posters showcasing the importance of Children’s Day. Create an engaging and festive environment that reflects the spirit of the day.
- Games and Competitions: Plan various fun activities, games, and competitions for the students. Include activities like drawing competitions, fancy dress competitions, quiz contests, or sports events tailored to different age groups.
- Cultural Programs: Encourage students to display their talents by showcasing various cultural performances representing the diversity of the school. This can include traditional dances, folk songs, or showcasing different regional cultures.
- Children’s Day Gifts and Ideas: As a token of appreciation, consider distributing small gifts, chocolates, or goodie bags to the students. These small gestures can make the day even more special for them.
- Collaborative Activities: Encourage collaborative activities where students from different classes or age groups work together. This promotes teamwork, cooperation, and a sense of unity among the students.
What are the Rights of a Child?
Children’s Rights and Children’s Day are a subset of human rights, focusing on the protection and care provided to minors. The 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child defines a child as any human being below the age of eighteen years. These rights include the right to association with parents, human identity, basic needs for physical protection, food, universal state-paid education, health care, and criminal laws appropriate for their age and development.
- Right to get free & compulsory elementary education for all children in the 6-14 year age group.
- Protection from any hazardous employment or any type of abuse.
- Right to get proper childhood care & education.
- Right to be protected from fulfilling any type of economic requirements by performing occupations unsuited to their age or strength.
- Right to get fair & equal opportunities for an overall development Right to freedom & dignity and complete protection against exploitation.
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Interesting Facts about Children’s Day
Promoting the welfare of the youths, there are multiple initiatives being run by the government. Some of the interesting facts about Children’s Day include:
- Jawaharlal Nehru belongs to Pandit family from Kashmir, India and grew up from his childhood in Anand Bhawan, Prayagraj, India.
- Nehru gone against his father’s wish and joined Congress to stay with Gandhi Ji.
- He wrote the book “Discovery of India” while his imprisonment period from 1942 to 1946 in Ahmednagar.
- Nehru became the first Prime Minister of India on 15 August 1947 and delivered the famous speech “Tryst with Destiny”.
- He was also known as an “Architect of Modern India”.
- He wrote a letter to his daughter, Indira Gandhi regarding his love for youth of the country and their rights.
Children’s Day Activities
Here are five enjoyable and meaningful activities that you can plan for kids on Children’s Day:
Fun Outdoor Picnic
Arrange an outdoor picnic in a park or a scenic spot where kids can play games, run around, and enjoy nature. Prepare their favorite snacks, sandwiches, and healthy treats for a delightful picnic experience.
Creative Arts and Crafts
Organize an arts and crafts session where children can unleash their creativity. Provide them with drawing materials, paints, craft supplies, and let their imagination flow to create artwork or craft projects.
Storytelling and Puppet Show
Set up a storytelling session or a puppet show where kids can immerse themselves in fascinating tales or stories. You can narrate stories or use puppets to engage them in an entertaining and educational experience.
Children’s Day Games and Crafts
Plan fun games, races, or friendly competitions suitable for their age group. Activities like sack races, relay games, or simple sports competitions can keep them active and entertained.
Children’s Day Educational Programs
Arrange educational workshops or activities focused on learning new skills or knowledge. It could include science experiments, gardening, baking, or DIY projects tailored to their interests.
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Children’s Day Quotes
1. “Children are like buds in a garden and should be carefully and lovingly nurtured, as they are the future of the nation and the citizens of tomorrow.” – Jawaharlal Nehru
2. “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.” – John F. Kennedy
3. “Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man.” – Rabindranath Tagore
4. “The soul is healed by being with children.” – Fyodor Dostoevsky
5. “There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.” – Nelson Mandela
Children’s Day Speech
Here is a sample Children’s Day speech:
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today, as we commemorate Children’s Day, we celebrate the spirit, innocence, and potential embodied by our young learners. This day holds special significance, not just as a tribute to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru but as a reminder of our collective responsibility to safeguard, nurture, and cherish our children. Our duty is to provide them with an environment where they can learn, grow, and explore their potential to the fullest.
To the young minds present here, you are the architects of tomorrow. Your dreams, imagination, and unwavering curiosity pave the path for a brighter future. Let this day serve as a reminder that each child is unique, talented, and deserves the utmost care, guidance, and encouragement in their journey towards excellence.
Thank you.
Conclusion
Children’s Day signifies the innocence, happiness, and dreams of our youth. As this special day ends, it’s crucial to understand that caring for our children isn’t just about today. It’s a continuous effort woven into our everyday actions, rules, and how our society works. This day should remind us to stand up for children’s rights, build spaces that include them, and create a world where every child is valued and encouraged. Let’s work together to create an environment where children can grow, learn, and flourish, ensuring a better and brighter future for everyone.
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Children’s Day – FAQs
Why is 14th November celebrated as Children’s Day?
14th November is celebrated as Children’s Day in India to honor the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, who was fondly known as Chacha Nehru or Uncle Nehru by children.
Why is World Children’s Day celebrated?
World Children’s Day is celebrated globally to promote and advocate for children’s rights, well-being, and education. It aims to raise awareness about the challenges faced by children worldwide.
What is the story of Children’s Day?
Children’s Day in India honors Nehru’s love for children and his vision for their well-being, growth, and education. He believed that nurturing children was essential for the country’s future progress.
Who declared 14 Nov as Children’s Day?
The Indian government officially declared 14th November as Children’s Day to commemorate Jawaharlal Nehru’s birth anniversary and to celebrate his affection and dedication to children.
Why is Nehru called Chacha?
Nehru’s affectionate nature and his love for children earned him the endearing title of “Chacha Nehru” or Uncle Nehru among children.
What is Children’s Day and Why is it Celebrated?
Children’s Day is a day dedicated to celebrating and advocating for children’s rights and welfare. It’s celebrated globally to honor children and raise awareness about their needs and rights.
When is Children’s Day Celebrated Worldwide?
The date of Children’s Day varies by country. Internationally, it is often celebrated on November 20th, marking the date when the UN adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.
How is Children’s Day Celebrated in Different Countries?
Celebrations vary globally, with activities like cultural performances, educational events, and community gatherings. Some countries have unique traditions, such as gift-giving or special school programs.
What are Some Popular Activities for Children’s Day?
Popular activities include organizing fun and educational events for children, such as sports, art workshops, and storytelling sessions. Schools and communities often host special events to engage children in enjoyable learning experiences.
How Can We Contribute to Children’s Day?
Individuals can contribute by participating in local events, volunteering with children’s organizations, or simply spending quality time with children in their lives. Advocating for children’s rights and supporting child-focused charities are also impactful ways to contribute.
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