In India, November 14 is a significant date for children. Children’s Day is observed across the country on the birth anniversary of our first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. 

Until 1959, India observed Children’s Day on November 20 — the date set by the United Nations every year. Following Jawaharlal Nehru’s death, it was decided that India would commemorate his birth anniversary on November 14 by celebrating Children’s Day.

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On November 14, 1889, Jawaharlal Nehru was born. His affection for children is recognised by all and Children’s Day commemorates that bond. According to Nehru, “The children of today will make the India of tomorrow. The way we bring them up will determine the future of the country.” 

Jawaharlal Nehru is also known as ‘Chacha Nehru’ among children because of his love for them. According to another story, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was very close to Mahatma Gandhi and thought of him as his older brother. Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru became known as ” Chacha” after Mahatma Gandhi, who was known as “Babu.”

Not only did Jawaharlal Nehru adore children, but he also believed in providing them with the resources they needed to thrive. He was concerned about the country’s educational system. As a result, he oversaw the establishment of some of the country’s most prestigious educational institutions. 

He believed in a modern, scientific approach to developing children’s talents, and he was instrumental in the establishment of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) (IIT). Jawaharlal Nehru also started the prestigious Indian Institutes of Management, which are now spread across the country.

On November 14, educational institutions across the country host cultural events and competitions. Many children dress up as Jawaharlal Nehru in school.  To make the day special for them, they are given toys, gifts, and sweets. Teachers perform for the entertainment of the students in several schools.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrations may be limited this year, as they were last year.