Why do we celebrate Children's Day?

Children's Day is celebrated as a tribute to Nehru. Nehru, fondly called 'Chacha Nehru' was born on November 14, 1889. He was known for his affection for kids. He also established the Children's Film Society India in 1955 to create indigenous cinema exclusively for kids.

Who started Children's Day?

Before 1964, India celebrated Children's Day on November 20 (the United Nations observes it on this day.) However, after the death of Pandit Nehru in 1964, it was decided that his birthday be celebrated as Children's Day. Along with being an able administrator, Nehru enforced the establishment of some of the most prominent educational institutions in India. His vision led to the establishment of AIIMS, IIT, and IIM. Nehru has left behind a legacy of education for the children of India. He once said, "The children of today will make the India of tomorrow. The way we bring them up will determine the future of the country."

Children's Day celebration across the world: Children's Day began in 1857 by Reverend Dr. Charles Leonard in Chelsea, US. Even though Children's Day is celebrated globally by most of the countries in the world on June 1, Universal Children's Day takes place annually on November 20.

About the author

Rahila Ahmed is working in Pratham Education Foundation and works on Teacher support management. Any views expressed are personal.