While the whole world celebrates March 08 as International Women’s Day to commemorate the March 1911, demonstrations demanding jobs for women, the right to hold public office, and an end to discrimination. India begs to differ from her friends and opt for February 13 to celebrate the women’s power. India Celebrates February 13 as national women’s day by remembering one of the most powerful and outspoken women Independence activist, Sarojini Naidu.
National Women’s Day 2025
From 1975 onwards, the United Nations selected March 08 to be International Women’s Day. But in India National Women’s Day is celebrated on February 13, the day Sarojini Naidu was born in 1879. She was vocal about women’s rights, women’s suffrage rights, etc. Thanks to her struggles, the Indian National Congress agreed for the Universal Suffrage in 1931.
Why February 13?
Sarojini Naidu, born in Hyderabad and educated in Cambridge was the powerful face of Women in the Indian Independence struggle. Sarojini Naidu was born on February 13, 1879. Anti-imperialistic, Universal Suffragist, Women rights activist Mrs. Naidu paved the path for women’s movements in India. Indian Nightangle Sarojini Naidu shines both as an activist and as a poet.
In 1925 Sarojini Naidu became the president of the Indian National Congress. Sarojini Naidu was one of the forefront leaders who led the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Quit India Movement. When she graces the United Provinces as Governor in 1947, she rewrites the history by becoming the first woman to hold the office of Governor in the Dominion of India.
For Women’s Rights, suffrage and representation in organizations and assemblies she established Women’s India Association in 1917. Given the exemplary work she did for the upliftment and empowerment of women in India, poet, and politician Sarojini Naidu’s birthday is regarded as Women’s Day in India.
About Sarojini Naidu
- Sarojini Naidu played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence from colonial rule.
- 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.
- 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.
- Naidu’s unwavering convictions led her to become the first woman governor of the United Provinces, now known as the state of Uttar Pradesh.
- Her educational and political prowess earned her the position of President of the Indian National Congress in 1925.
- During the Quit India Movement spearheaded by Mahatma Gandhi, she was imprisoned for a duration of 21 months.
- Her substantial contributions extended to the drafting of the Indian Constitution.
- 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:
- Acknowledging and supporting local women-owned businesses.
- Fundraising for women’s charities and causes.
- Watching a movie featuring a strong female lead or character.
- Exploring the stories of renowned and inspirational women.
- Connecting with women who have made a significant impact on one’s life.
National Women’s Day 2025 Quiz :
- When is International Women’s Day celebrated?
- A) March 8th
- B) February 14th
- C) July 1st
- D) December 25th
Answer: A) March 8th - What is the theme for International Women’s Day 2025?
- A) Empower Women
- B) Accelerate Action
- C) Break the Bias
- D) Choose to Challenge
Answer: B) Accelerate Action - In which year did the United Nations officially start celebrating International Women’s Day?
- A) 1965
- B) 1975
- C) 1985
- D) 1995
Answer: B) 1975 - The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of which significant declaration for women’s rights?
- A) The Geneva Convention
- B) The Beijing Declaration
- C) The Paris Agreement
- D) The Kyoto Protocol
Answer: B) The Beijing Declaration - Which country was the first to make International Women’s Day a national holiday in 1917?
- A) United States
- B) Russia
- C) France
- D) Germany
Answer: B) Russia
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