Every year, November 14 brings colourful celebrations to schools across India. From cultural performances and games to special assemblies, the day is dedicated to children and their place in shaping the country's future.
But here's something interesting: while India celebrates Children's Day on November 14, the rest of the world observes World Children's Day on November 20.
So, why does India follow a different date?
The answer lies in India's history and its first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.
India celebrates Children's Day, popularly known as Bal Diwas, on November 14 to mark the birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, who was born on November 14, 1889.
Nehru was popularly known as 'Chacha Nehru' because of his affection for children. He believed that children were central to the country's future and that their education, development and well-being were essential for building a strong nation.
His association with children eventually became closely linked to the annual observance of Children's Day in India.
Following his death on May 27, 1964, November 14 came to be officially observed as Children's Day in his memory.
November 20 has a different historical significance.
In 1954, the United Nations General Assembly recommended that countries establish a Universal Children's Day to promote international togetherness, awareness and the welfare of children.
The date November 20 was chosen because of two landmark developments in international child rights history.
November 20, 1959: The UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.
November 20, 1989: The United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), an international agreement recognising children's fundamental rights.
Today, UNICEF observes November 20 as World Children's Day, using the occasion to amplify children's voices and advocate for their rights.
Children's Day is not just about a school holiday, fancy dress competitions or sweets. It is also a reminder that every child deserves access to education, healthcare, safety, equal opportunities and a childhood free from discrimination and violence.
The day calls attention to a larger responsibility: ensuring that children are not just celebrated but also heard, protected and empowered.
After all, a country's future is not built merely by talking about its children. It is built by creating opportunities for them to learn, question, imagine and grow.
This Children's Day, the question is not just how we celebrate childhood, but how well we protect it.