Children's Day, also known as 'Bal Diwas' is celebrated in India every year on November 14. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. He was famously known as Chacha Nehru.
Nehru was a strong advocate of children's rights and education. His idea of education for children was introducing inclusivity in education for the country to prosper.
Nehru promoted the importance of children as the future of the country and foundation of the society. He also established Children's Film Society India to represent Indian children.
History
In 1948 on November 5, India observes 'Flower Day' for the first time. The initiative was an attempt by Indian Council of Child Welfare (ICCW) to collect funds for United Nations Appeal for Children (UNAC) through the sale of 'flower tokens'. However, it was in 1954 when Nehru's birthday was celebrated as Children's Day.
Initially, Children's Day was celebrated in India on November 20 – the same day when United Nations celebrates World Children's Day. However, after Nehru's death in 1964, his birth anniversary was declared as Children's day or 'Bal Diwas' in India, after the Indian Parliament passed a resolution in support.
Significance
Children's Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about children's education, rights, and the need for accessible care and hygiene for all. It is also the day to reiterate the former Prime Minister's vision that children are the future of India and how they can shape the country.
Celebrations
The day calls for pampering children and giving them gifts. Schools in India celebrate the day by organising special programs and performances for students. Quiz, different competitions, debates, art and culture events are organised in different schools. Teachers and students exchange gifts and cards. Unlike every year, students of national capital, Delhi will not be witnessing any celebrations in schools as the state government has closed schools until November 18 in view of raising pollution across the city.
On this day, President of India releases a special message for Children in India.
