Mother's Day Celebrations in India

Posted on : 5th March 2010
"Most of all the other beautiful things in life come by twos and threes by dozens and hundreds. Plenty of roses, stars, sunsets, rainbows, brothers, and sisters, aunts and cousins, but only one mother in the whole world." - Kate Douglas Wiggin

Where Did it All Begin?
Mother's Day origins can be traced to the era of ancient Greek and Romans. In recent history the celebration has its roots in the United Kingdom. It was here that the concept of Mother's Day was born sometime around the 1600s. The tradition of home visit by children working away from homes gave rise to this occasion which was initially known as Mothering Sunday. Today this is known as Mother's Day UK. It is only since late 19th century that this festival gained due popularity in other western nations as well.

History of Mother's Day in India
Today, this festival has gained in importance and reach to many countries the world over. The major reason for this universal appeal of Mother's Day lies in its association with the relationship between a mother and a child. This bond never varies and is the same across religions and cultures. The concept of celebrating motherhood and mothers is not so recent in India as well. It is widely reflected in the great Indian mythology as well with references to goddesses as Ma an example of the same. Mothers and motherhood has always been given its due respect in the Indian societal setup as well.

When is Mother's Day Celebrated in India?
Even though giving respect and acknowledging mothers and motherhood is not new to the Indian ideology. But, the concept of Mother's Day or a day dedicated to mothers is something which is very new in India. Most countries including US, Australia, Canada and India celebrate Mothers Day on the second Sunday of May. In UK, Mother's Day celebrations are based on a different religious concept. It falls on the fourth Sunday in the month of Lent. Since the days of Lent are not fixed, the date for Mother's Day keeps on changing as well. Mothers Day UK will be celebrated on 9th May 2010.

Mother's Day Celebrations in India
Globalisation, has given the recognition to this festival in India. Introduced as a card and gift giving day (for mothers) in the metropolitan cities, Mother's Day is now fast spreading its wings to a wider audience as well. Indians have dedicated this one day in the calender to all mothers and to the selfless spirit that is the omnipresent in every mother-child bond.

Children of all ages celebrate Mother's Day with a great deal of enthusiasm and excitement. Everyone tries, in their own special and individual way to make this day special for their mothers. Also, there are various community level programs held in India, with respect to this day. Mother's Day flowers and cards are the favourite among all tokens of love for mothers. It is a day to pamper and make mothers feel special with Mothers Day gifts. Like people across the world, Indians too reflect upon and express gratitude for the immense love and support of their mothers in giving them an identity of their own.