Mother’s Day 2024: Date, History, Significance, and Celebration

Every year in May, Mother's Day is celebrated worldwide to honour the unparalleled love, strength, and support of mothers. This day acknowledges the profound bond between a mother and her children, transcending words, time, and distance. It's a time to express gratitude for the comfort, safety, and unwavering support that mothers provide.

Date:

Mother's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May each year in many countries, including India. In 2024, it falls on May 12th.

History:

The roots of Mother's Day stretch back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans, who held festivals honouring mother goddesses in spring, symbolizing fertility and motherhood.

In 16th century England, Christians celebrated "Mothering Sunday" when families reunited at their mother church. Children would present flowers or small gifts to their mothers.

In the United States, the modern Mother's Day owes much to Julia Ward Howe, an activist who in 1870 wrote the "Mother's Day Proclamation" advocating for women to unite for peace. Anna Jarvis, another American activist, campaigned for a national holiday to honour mothers after her own mother's death in 1905.

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially designated the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day in the U.S. Despite being credited as the founder, Anna Jarvis later fought against the holiday's commercialization, feeling it overshadowed its genuine sentiment.

Significance:

Mother's Day serves as a reminder of the invaluable role of mothers, providing an opportunity to express love, appreciation, and recognition for their selfless devotion and unconditional love. It's a day to honour the sacrifices mothers make and the impact they have on their families and society.

It's also a time to strengthen family bonds, acknowledge the influence mothers have on their children's lives, and express gratitude for their nurturing and guidance. Celebrating mothers contributes to their emotional well-being, validating their efforts and promoting a sense of fulfillment in their role.

Celebration:

Mother's Day celebrations vary but often involve giving gifts such as flowers, cards, chocolates, or jewellery as tokens of love and appreciation. Spending quality time with mothers is key, whether through shared activities or special gestures like writing heartfelt letters or preparing breakfast in bed.

Mother's Day isn't limited to biological mothers but extends to all mother figures, including stepmothers, grandmothers, and adoptive mothers. Public events like concerts or parades may also be organized to honour mothers, and it can be a time for reflection and remembrance for those whose mothers have passed away.

Ultimately, Mother's Day is about expressing love, appreciation, and gratitude towards mothers and mother figures, celebrating their immeasurable impact on our lives.