Quick Summary
International Women’s Day began in the early 1900s as a global protest for equal pay, voting rights, and better working conditions for women.
International Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This year, it will fall on 11th May, but the date may change yearly.
The United Nations officially recognized the day in 1975, broadening its impact with global themes and advocacy efforts.
While Mother’s Day highlights nurturing roles, both days celebrate the strength and contributions of women worldwide.
Table of Contents
International Mother’s Day is a global special occasion to honor mothers’ unconditional love and sacrifices. Understanding the significance and history of this meaningful holiday can help us appreciate the vital role mothers play in our lives. This blog post will delve into the history, importance, and diverse ways International Mother’s Day is celebrated globally.
International Mother’s Day is an annual event observed on the second Sunday of May in many countries worldwide. It is a day dedicated to celebrating and recognizing the contributions of mothers, grandmothers, and other maternal figures who have nurtured and supported us.
The origins of International Mother’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the efforts of Anna Jarvis, an American activist who campaigned tirelessly to establish the holiday. Since then, International Mother’s Day has become a global phenomenon, with countries adopting unique traditions and customs to honor mothers.
The purpose of celebrating International Mother’s Day is to acknowledge the selfless love of mothers. As it is generally believed, mothers often do not receive enough credit for their love and sacrifices. Their constant contribution to their families regarding love and care makes them deserving of appreciation and recognition.
Therefore, International Mother’s Day is a special and friendly way to commemorate the essence and appreciate every motherly figure in our lives. Today, people express their gratitude for their mothers in various ways.
Considering the challenging role of a mother, from raising a child to instilling good values in them, Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the never-ending love of mothers towards their children. This occasion celebrates the sacred bond that mothers share with their children.
Now, let’s find out when Mother’s Day is. International Mother’s Day is celebrated on the 2nd Sunday of May, and the date changes yearly.
For example, Mother’s Day 2025 will be celebrated on May 11th.
International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a momentous occasion that goes far beyond symbolic gestures—it is rooted in the global struggle for gender equality, women’s rights, and social progress. Interestingly, many people draw parallels between this day and other global observances such as International Mother’s Day, as both shine a light on the vital role women play in shaping our families, societies, and futures. Understanding the significance of International Mother’s Day alongside Women’s Day deepens our appreciation of the global journey for equity and respect.
The origins of International Women’s Day can be traced back to 1908, when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding better working conditions, equal pay, and the right to vote. This protest was a reflection of the growing unrest among working-class women, and it laid the groundwork for a broader movement.
A year later, the Socialist Party of America announced the first National Woman’s Day in the United States. The success of this movement inspired international efforts to promote women’s rights in global discourse.
In 1908, Anna Jarvis held a memorial service to honor her own mother, who had passed away. She then began a campaign to establish a national day to recognize the sacrifices and contributions of mothers.
After years of lobbying, Jarvis’s efforts paid off, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially declared the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day in the United States.
In 1910, German activist Clara Zetkin introduced the idea for International Women’s Day at a Socialist Women’s Conference in Copenhagen. Her vision was to have a day when women worldwide would unite in advocating for equal rights. The idea was accepted unanimously, and the first International Women’s Day was officially celebrated in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland in 1911.
Over time, the day evolved into International Mother’s Day, developing a strong emotional and cultural resonance across continents. As we see each year how the world celebrates Mother’s Day in unique and heartfelt ways, so does the observance of Women’s Day vary by region, while maintaining a consistent message of empowerment and recognition.
As International Mother’s Day gained popularity, it also faced criticism for becoming overly commercialized, shifting the focus away from the holiday’s true meaning. Anna Jarvis herself expressed dismay at how the holiday had been commercialized, emphasizing greeting cards, flowers, and gifts rather than genuine acts of appreciation.
Today, International Women’s Day is marked by everything from rallies and discussions to social media movements and workplace initiatives. Each year, a theme is selected to address pressing global issues. While Women’s Day and Mother’s Day are separate events, the themes often resonate on similar frequencies.
For instance, the International Mother’s Day 2025 theme is expected to focus on resilience and recovery, especially post-pandemic, highlighting mothers’ roles in education, healthcare, and community building during times of crisis.
Similarly, Women’s Day 2025 is anticipated to bring renewed focus to economic parity, leadership roles, and dismantling bias in decision-making spaces. Together, these themes encourage a deeper societal shift, inviting everyone, regardless of gender, to participate in rewriting the narrative.
Mother’s Day celebrations vary widely across cultures, reflecting unique traditions and values. Let’s explore some of the most prominent customs:
What began as a heartfelt celebration of motherhood has, over time, transformed into one of the most commercially driven holidays of the year. Initially rooted in gratitude, reflection, and genuine emotional connection, Mother’s Day has increasingly become a profit-centered event, often overshadowing its true essence. The modern-day observance, especially in Western countries, sees a surge in spending on flowers, greeting cards, jewelry, spa vouchers, and elaborate brunches — all marketed as “must-haves” to honor moms.
This commercial shift essentially took off in the early 20th century, not long after Anna Jarvis successfully campaigned for Mother’s Day to be recognized as a national holiday in the United States. Ironically, Jarvis herself grew disillusioned with how quickly businesses overtook the day. She strongly opposed the idea of profit replacing sentiment and even went so far as to protest against florists and card companies for distorting her original intent.
Today, billions of dollars are spent globally each year in the name of Mother’s Day. While gift-giving isn’t inherently negative, it raises questions about whether the pressure to purchase overshadows genuine appreciation. Thoughtful gestures, such as handwritten notes, quality time, or acts of service, are often sidelined by flashy ads promoting luxury items.
The commercialization of Mother’s Day reminds us to reassess how we celebrate. While the marketplace continues to capitalize on the occasion, the value lies in making mothers feel loved, seen, and appreciated in meaningful ways, with or without a price tag. Striking a balance between thoughtful gifts and heartfelt actions may preserve the day’s original spirit.
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While the concept of honoring mothers has always been deeply embedded in Indian culture, the formal celebration of International Mother’s Day in India blends global traditions with the country’s rich family values. On this day, children of all ages take time to show appreciation for the unconditional love, support, and sacrifices made by their mothers. Whether through handmade cards, thoughtful gifts, or simply heartfelt conversations, the focus is always on making mothers feel valued and cherished.
In India, Mother’s Day is increasingly being embraced by both urban and rural families. Schools often organize special programs where children recite poems, perform songs, and share stories about their mothers. Families prepare their mother’s favorite meals in homes, offer flowers, and sometimes even arrange small surprises or family gatherings. The celebration of Mother’s Day in India is not just limited to biological mothers, and it extends to grandmothers, aunts, and elder sisters who have played nurturing roles in the family. This broader recognition adds a unique cultural touch to the celebration, making it more inclusive and emotionally prosperous.
As social media and digital platforms become more central to daily life, people in India also take to these spaces to post heartfelt messages, photos, and memories in honor of their mothers. At the same time, brands and businesses launch Mother’s Day campaigns, offering discounts and promoting stories that highlight the strength and warmth of motherhood, further amplifying the spirit of the day.
While International Mother’s Day has western roots, its celebration in India is deeply emotional, warm, and increasingly meaningful with each passing year. It serves as a beautiful reminder to pause our fast-paced lives, reflect on the love and care we’ve received, and express our gratitude in small, thoughtful ways. Ultimately, celebrating Mother’s Day in India is not just about following a global trend. Still, it’s about embracing a universal sentiment of love, respect, and appreciation for mothers’ irreplaceable role in shaping our lives.
As we commemorate International Mother’s Day, it is essential to reflect on the personal stories and experiences that make this holiday so meaningful. From inspiring tales of maternal sacrifice to heartwarming accounts of family bonding, these stories remind us of the profound impact of mothers and maternal figures on our lives.
In the small village of Rajasthan, India, Meena’s family had fallen on hard times. With her husband’s health declining and the family’s financial resources dwindling, Meena knew she had to take drastic action to ensure her children’s well-being. Without hesitation, she decided to leave her home and seek work as a domestic helper in the city, hundreds of miles away.
For years, Meena toiled tirelessly, sending every rupee she could spare back to her family. The separation was agonizing, but her love for her children fueled her determination. Finally, after saving enough money, Meena could return home and reunite with her family. The joyful tears that streamed down her children’s faces as they embraced their mothers were a testament to the unwavering love and sacrifice that define motherhood.
Growing up in a small town in rural China, Mei-Ling’s childhood was marked by hardship and uncertainty. When her mother passed away, her grandmother, Lao-Lao, stepped in to fill the void, becoming a pillar of strength and support.
Lao-Lao’s wisdom and compassion knew no bounds. She would spend hours teaching Mei-Ling traditional Chinese calligraphy, imparting artistic skills and valuable life lessons. During times of doubt and despair, Lao-Lao’s gentle words and unwavering encouragement would lift Mei-Ling’s spirits, reminding her of her inner strength and resilience.
As Mei-Ling grew older and faced the challenges of adulthood, she would often turn to Lao-Lao for guidance. Her grandmother’s unwavering presence and unconditional love became a guiding light, shaping Mei-Ling into the confident and compassionate woman she is today.
In the remote villages of Kenya, cultural norms and economic barriers often limit girls’ access to education. But for Fatima, a determined mother, providing her daughter with the opportunity to learn was a cause she was willing to fight for.
Despite facing skepticism and resistance from her community, Fatima tirelessly advocated for her daughter, Amina, to attend the local secondary school. She took on additional farm work, scrimping and saving every shilling to cover the tuition fees and school supplies.
The journey was difficult, but Fatima’s unwavering commitment and Amina’s unwavering determination paid off. Amina excelled in her studies, eventually earning a scholarship to a prestigious university. As Fatima watched her daughter walk across the stage to receive her diploma, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of immense pride and joy, knowing that her sacrifices had paved the way for a brighter future.
These heartwarming stories are just a few examples of the countless ways in which mothers and maternal figures have profoundly impacted the lives of their loved ones. From the selfless acts of a mother in India to the guiding wisdom of a grandmother in China and the unwavering determination of a Kenyan mother, these narratives remind us of the universal power of maternal love and support.
As we celebrate International Mother’s Day, let us take inspiration from these stories and honor the maternal figures in our lives, recognizing their invaluable contributions in shaping our journeys and helping us reach our full potential.
International Mother’s Day is a fantastic opportunity to express your love and gratitude to the extraordinary women in your life. Here are some ideas to make the day truly memorable:
Remember, the most important thing is to show your mother how much she means to you. Whether you choose a grand gesture or a simple act of kindness, your love and appreciation will be the best gift.
Here’s a list of movies that beautifully capture the essence of motherhood:
This list offers a diverse range of movies that cater to different tastes and emotions. Enjoy a heartwarming cinematic experience with your loved ones!
International Mother’s Day is a cherished global celebration that pays tribute to the selfless love and unwavering support of mothers and maternal figures. As 7th and 8th-grade students, understanding this holiday’s history, traditions, and significance can help us develop a deeper appreciation for the women who have shaped our lives.
Whether it’s spending quality time with your mother, expressing gratitude, or supporting maternal causes, there are countless ways to commemorate International Mother’s Day and honor the remarkable women in our lives. By embracing the spirit of this holiday, we can foster stronger family bonds, promote maternal well-being, and inspire the next generation to continue the legacy of honoring and celebrating mothers worldwide.
Both International Women’s Day and International Mother’s Day serve as vital reminders of women’s contributions, struggles, and triumphs. Whether we celebrate International Mother’s Day with affectionate gestures or honor International Women’s Day through advocacy, each observance reinforces the need for continued dialogue, awareness, and action.
As we look forward to the Mother’s Day theme 2025 and reflect on how the world celebrated Mother’s Day in past years, one truth remains clear: women, whether as leaders, caregivers, change-makers, or dreamers, are central to a better, more equitable world.
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March 21 is celebrated as Mother’s Day throughout the Middle East. It has been honored as a sacred day to celebrate mothers at the time of the spring equinox, the time for new life, and to honor all life as sacred.
It was officially recognized in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed the proclamation designating Mother’s Day to be held on the second Sunday in May as a national holiday to honor mothers. This year, International Mother’s Day will fall on 11th May.
International Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May. This year, it will fall on 11th May, but the date may change yearly.
Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor
Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.
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Chegg India does not ask for money to offer any opportunity with the company. We request you to be vigilant before sharing your personal and financial information with any third party. Beware of fraudulent activities claiming affiliation with our company and promising monetary rewards or benefits. Chegg India shall not be responsible for any losses resulting from such activities.
