Surely the children are missing school today as the country celebrates the Children’s Day. Children’s day is celebrated every year on November 14. It commemorates the birth anniversary of the first Prime Minister of Independent India Jawaharlal Nehru fondly called Chacha Nehru. He was born on November 14, 1889.
Children’s day celebration in India started back in 1956, when the day was observed as ‘Universal Children’s Day’ on November 20, keeping with the United Nations. After Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s death in 1964, however, it was decided the celebrations be moved to commemorate his birth anniversary and his fondness for children. Since then, November 14 has been celebrated as Children’s Day in India.
“The children of today will make the India of tomorrow. The way we bring them up will determine the future of the country,†he had said.
Usually on this day, cultural programmes for children are held across the country, in various schools, colleges and other educational institutions. Certain events and competitions are held, which also see the participation of teachers. Children also dress up as Jawaharlal Nehru with a red rose pinned to the collar of their ‘Nehru’ jacket.
This year, because of the pandemic, the celebrations may happen virtually. But, let us take this moment to appreciate children and make them feel special and worthy on the day, as Pandit Nehru would have wanted and envisioned.
Happy Children’s Day!!