Celebrating Children's Day: Honouring Nehru's legacy of love and vision for India's future

In India, Children's Day is celebrated on November 14 every year to celebrate the birth anniversary of the country's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, who was known for his deep affection towards children. It was because of this love that he was fondly called 'Chacha Nehru' by kids. The day is also known as 'Bal Diwas' because it appreciates and acknowledges children as the future of the county.

On this day, schools across the country organise special events and programmes for children and give them gifts. They also conduct various games and competitions.

Notably, before Jawahar Lal Nehru's death, Bal Diwas was celebrated on November 20, coinciding with the Universal Children's Day by the United Nations. After his death in 1964, a resolution was passed in the parliament, and it was unanimously decided to celebrate his birthday as Bal Diwas in India. By celebrating Children's Day as Bal Diwas, India reinforced the cultural and emotional significance of the day, making it a uniquely Indian celebration rooted in national pride and values.

Jawaharlal Nehru was born on 14 November 1889 in Allahabad (now Prayagraj). His vision and commitment to young minds' development were instrumental in shaping post-Independence India.

Nehru believed that children were the future of the nation and the foundation of a progressive society. He saw education as the cornerstone for India's growth and often stated that children should be nurtured, respected, and given every opportunity to realise their potential. Throughout his life, he emphasised education, creating schools and institutions to offer equal learning opportunities.

Now, as we celebrate Children's Day today, here are a few inspiring quotes by Nehru:

"Children are like buds in a garden and should be carefully and lovingly nurtured, as they are the future of the nation and the citizens of tomorrow."

"Life is like a game of cards. The hand that is dealt you is determinism; the way you play it is free will."

"The children of today will make the India of tomorrow."

"Politics and religion are obsolete. The time has come for science and spirituality."