History of Children’s Day

Children’s Day, celebrated on November 14, is recognized across India to increase awareness of the rights, care, and education of children. The day is also held as a tribute to India’s First Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Fondly known as “Chacha Nehru” among children, he advocated for children to have fulfilled education. Nehru considered children as the real strength of a nation and the foundation of society. The nation usually celebrates Children’s Day with educational and motivational programs held across India, by and for children.

History of Children’s Day

India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru was born to a family of Kashmiri Brahmans on November 14, 1889. His family, who were noted for their administrative aptitude and scholarship, had migrated to Delhi early in the 18th century. He was the son of Motilal Nehru, a renowned lawyer, and leader of the Indian independence movement, who became one of Mahatma Gandi’s prominent associates. Jawaharlal was the eldest of four children, two of whom were girls. A sister, Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, later became the first woman president of the United Nations General Assembly.

It is believed that Nehru was known as “Chacha Nehru” by children because he believed that children were the strength of India. However, in another story, the former Prime Minister was called “chacha” because of his closeness with Gandi, whom all referred to as ‘Bapu’. Hence, people suggested the nickname ‘chacha’ for Jawaharlal Nehru as he was seen as the younger brother of the father of the nation.

Nehru, under the guidance of Gandhi, turned out to be a leader in India’s struggle for independence in 1947. He laid the foundation of independent India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. For this, Nehru is credited as the architect of modern India.

After the death of Jawaharlal Nehru in 1964, a resolution was passed in the parliament unanimously to honor him, declaring his birth anniversary as the official date of Children’s Day. India used to celebrate Children’s Day on November 20 every year before 1956 as the United Nations, in 1954, had declared the day Universal Children’s Day. Therefore, each year since then, November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of the country’s first PM.

Now, to mark Children’s Day, schools organize fun and motivational functions. Many prepare a Children’s Day speech. In many schools, children are asked to ditch school uniforms and wear party clothes. It’s a joyous occasion for all children, parents, and teachers.

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