Children's Day in India, celebrated on November 14, honors the birth anniversary of India's first prime minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who was deeply fond of children and considered them the future of the nation.
Known as Chacha Nehru (Uncle Nehru) among children, Nehru believed that every child deserves a nurturing environment to thrive and grow. The day serves as a reminder of Nehru's vision for India’s youth, focusing on their well-being, education, and development, and on creating a society that fosters love, care, and equal opportunities for all children.
Here are 10 of his most memorable quotes that reflect his views on children, their importance, and their role in shaping a better future.
1. "The children of today will make the India of tomorrow. The way we bring them up will determine the future of the country."
Nehru stressed the significant role of upbringing and education in shaping a nation’s future, underscoring the responsibility adults have in nurturing young minds to build a better India.
2. "I may not have time for adults, but I have enough time for children."
This quote reflects Nehru’s genuine fondness for children. He prioritized spending time with them, understanding their concerns, and encouraging them to dream big—showing his belief in children as the future caretakers of society.
3. "Only through proper education can we build a better order of society."
Nehru strongly believed in the transformative power of education. He advocated for a system that promotes not only academic learning but also moral and ethical values to build a just society.
4. "Children do not think of differences amongst themselves."
Nehru admired the innocence of children, which, he felt, kept them free from the prejudices that often divide adults. He saw children’s openness as an ideal for an inclusive society.
5. "Unfortunately, the teaching and behavior of the elders around them often eclipse their natural freedom as they grow up."
Rigid societal norms should preserve children's innate curiosity and fearlessness, as Nehru often spoke.
6. "Give me the strength never to disown the poor or bend my knees before insolent might."
While not specifically about children, this quote highlights Nehru’s emphasis on justice, equality, and standing up for the underprivileged, values he believed should be instilled in children from a young age.
7. "A language is something infinitely greater than grammar and philology. It is the poetic testament of the genius of a race and culture."
Nehru believed in the importance of cultural and linguistic heritage for children’s holistic development, seeing language as a bridge to identity and history that enriches young minds.
8. "Our main flaw is that we spend more time talking about things than actually doing them."
This statement encourages children and adults alike to focus on action rather than mere discussion, promoting a proactive approach to problem-solving and progress.
9. "Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit."
Nehru believed that exposure to diverse ideas and cultures broadens perspectives, helping children become more empathetic, informed, and open-minded individuals.
10. "Life is like a game of cards. The cards dealt to you symbolize determinism, while your decision to play them represents free will". Through this quote, Nehru encouraged children to take charge of their lives with optimism and resilience, teaching them the balance between circumstances and choice in life.
Schools, communities, and cultural institutions across India mark Children's Day with various events. Schools organize fun activities, including cultural programs, sports, and art competitions, to honor children and inspire them. We place special emphasis on providing equal opportunities for all children, recognizing their rights, and addressing issues that affect their lives, such as education and health care.
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