National Women’s Day

The 13th of February is National Women's Day, an annual celebration in India. This day in 1879 saw the birth of Sarojini Naidu, an eminent poet, stateswoman, and revolutionary in India.

National Women's Day 2025

In addition to paying homage to Sarojini Naidu, National Women's Day honours all Indian women who have made significant contributions to the advancement of their country. In India, women have achieved notable achievements in a wide range of fields, including science, technology, politics, and economics, both domestically and globally. Therefore, all these achievements are celebrated on Women's Day in

Event

National Women’s Day 

Date

13th  February 2025

Location

India 

Meaning

To mark the birth anniversary of the revolutionary Sarojini Naidu 

Significance of National Women's Day

Annually, on the 13th of February, India observes National Women's Day in commemoration of the birth anniversary of the eminent political activist and poet Sarojini Naidu. This day holds immense significance for all Indian citizens, particularly women, as it stands as a testament to their civil rights. 

It's worth noting that National Women's Day is celebrated without a specific theme. While the celebrations are widespread and spirited, no particular theme is officially designated for this occasion. The overarching theme of the celebration is to recognize and honour the diverse contributions of women across various fields. Additionally, Women's Day in India serves as a tribute to Sarojini Naidu on her birth anniversary.

About Sarojini Naidu

  1. Sarojini Naidu played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence from colonial rule. 
  2. She earned the endearing monikers of the 'Nightingale of India' or 'Bharat Kokila' due to her poetry that touched upon themes of romance, patriotism, and tragedy. 
  3. The observance of National Women's Day in India on her birthday underscores the celebration of women's achievements in social, cultural, political, and economic domains within the country. 
  4. Naidu's unwavering convictions led her to become the first woman governor of the United Provinces, now known as the state of Uttar Pradesh. 
  5. Her educational and political prowess earned her the position of President of the Indian National Congress in 1925. 
  6. During the Quit India Movement spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi, she was imprisoned for a duration of 21 months. 
  7. Her substantial contributions extended to the drafting of the Indian Constitution. 
  8. Thanks to her resolute character and steadfast beliefs, Sarojini Naidu remains an iconic figure and a source of inspiration for countless women throughout the nation. 

The decision to commemorate National Women's Day on the 13th of February was made in recognition of Sarojini Naidu's birthdate, honouring her enduring legacy and the contributions of women across India. 

History of National Women's Day in India

The inception of National Women's Day in India may be traced back to the Indian government's recognition of Sarojini Naidu's significant influence on many women throughout the country. To honour her outstanding achievements to women's rights, the independence movement, and other areas, the government formally declared February 13th to be National Women's Day. The fact that Sarojini Naidu was born on this day in 1879 is particularly significant.   

Commemoration of National Women's Day in India

National Women's Day is a celebration of women's accomplishments. Therefore, to mark this occasion, women in India engage in various activities such as: 

  1. Acknowledging and supporting local women-owned businesses. 
  2. Fundraising for women's charities and causes. 
  3. Watching a movie featuring a strong female lead or character. 
  4. Exploring the stories of renowned and inspirational women. 
  5. Connecting with women who have made a significant impact on one's life. 

Women have excelled in numerous fields, including business, sports, fashion, and more. They embody qualities such as beauty, grace, elegance, and compassion, making them one of the most remarkable creations of God. National Women's Day serves as a reminder to recognize and celebrate the achievements of these extraordinary individuals.

About Women's Day

This day is an annual celebration and homage to her for her outstanding efforts to the promotion of women's rights. Sarojini Naidu was a distinguished political figure as well as a distinguished writer. She was given the honour of being called the "Nightingale of India" by Mahatma Gandhi. Continue reading to learn more about the life and achievements of this significant woman, as well as the background and meaning of National Women's Day.  

International Women’s Day

Every year on March 8, it is honoured worldwide as International Women's Day. It marks a turning point in the history of the women's rights movement, bringing attention to problems that are vital to the cause, including reproductive rights, gender equality, and the prevention of violence and abuse against women. The universal suffrage movement, which fueled labour groups in North America and Europe in the early 20th century, is where IWD got its start. The first known celebration of this holiday was a "Women's Day" held in New York City on February 28, 1909, and was sponsored by the Socialist Party of America. This prompted German delegates to propose an annual 'special Women's Day', albeit without a set date, during the International Socialist Women's Conference in 1910. The next year saw the first-ever protests and celebrations of International Women's Day throughout Europe.   

In commemoration of women's suffrage gained in Soviet Russia during the February Revolution in 1917, International Women's Day (IDD) was declared a national holiday on March 8. Communist countries and socialist movements thereafter observed it on this day. The festival was associated for a long time with regimes and ideology on the extreme left before the worldwide feminist movement took it over in the late 1960s. In 1977, International Women's Day was officially adopted by the UN, which helped to establish it as a widely acknowledged international holiday.    

Around the world, there are several methods to celebrate International Women's Day. Many nations recognise it as a public holiday, but in some others, celebrations of women's accomplishments are marked by a range of social and local events. The UN links certain women's rights-related problems, campaigns, or themes to the celebration. IWD still has elements of its political roots in some areas, where there are demonstrations and demands for significant change. On the other hand, it has developed into a mostly social celebration of female in many Western places.   

FAQs on National Women's Day

  • When is National Women's Day?

    National Women's Day is annually celebrated on the 13th of February in India. It is a national observance dedicated to honouring the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a remarkable revolutionary activist, poet, and politician who played a significant role in India's struggle for independence. 

  • What is the significance of National Women's Day?

    In India, National Women's Day was established to honour and commemorate Sarojini Naidu's contributions to literature and society. She was born on February 13th, 1879, and was a vocal supporter of civil rights, women's independence, and a host of other social causes.

  • Is the celebration of National Women's Day exclusive to India?

    Yes, National Women's Day is specifically celebrated on the 13th of February in India. This commemoration is unique to India and is not observed as a global event. It serves as a national tribute to the illustrious revolutionary, social reformer, and literary figure Sarojini Naidu, whose birth anniversary falls on the 13th of February 1879. 

  • How does National Women's Day differ from International Women's Day? 

    There are two different days: International Women's Day and National Women's Day. While National Women's Day is only honoured on February 13 in India, International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8 worldwide each year. The latter is a national homage that is intended to honour Sarojini Naidu's birth anniversary.

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