India is celebrating National Women’s Day 2026 on 13th February 2026. This year National Women’s Day, also known as National Day of Women, in India becomes special as it will mark the 147th birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. As India commemorates the achievements of women on this special day, this article presents a detailed account of National Women’s Day, including its history, significance and more.
About National Women’s Day in India
National Women’s Day in India is celebrated every year on 13 February. The day marks the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, an eminent freedom fighter and poet, also known as the “Nightingale of India”. This day, also known as the National Day of Women in India, is dedicated to recognizing the significant contributions of women in various fields and their indispensable role in shaping the nation’s destiny. The day also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the persisting gender disparities and challenges faced by women in India.
About Sarojini Naidu
Sarojini Naidu, famously known as the Nightingale of India or Bharat Kokila, is a monumental figure in Indian history. With equal prowess in poetry and political activism, Naidu was a celebrated poet and a fierce freedom fighter in early 20th-century India.
Born on 13 February 1879, in Hyderabad, Sarojini Naidu’s literary legacy is marked by a collection of works that beautifully capture the essence of Indian culture, the spirit of India’s freedom struggle, and advocacy for women’s rights and women’s empowerment. The nationalistic fervor and growing demand for freedom from British rule, sweeping across India during her time, deeply influenced Naidu and she ventured into the Indian freedom movement. Her active participation in several movements such as the Non-Cooperation Movement, Salt Satyagraha, etc is still remembered in Indian history.
Recognizing the instrumental role played by Naidu as a proponent of women’s emancipation, the Government of India has declared her birth anniversary on 13 February every year as National Women’s Day or National Day of Women in India.
Read our detailed article on Sarojini Naidu.
National Women’s Day in India vis-a-vis International Women’s Day
Indian National Women’s Day or National Day of Women in India (13 February) is different from International Women’s Day, which is celebrated globally and annually on 8 March. The two differ in the following respects:
| National Women’s Day (India) | International Women’s Day | |
|---|---|---|
| Date | 13 February | 8 March |
| Origin | As far as the history of National Women’s Day is concerned, it was started to mark the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. | Grew out of the Labour Movement in the early 20th century to achieve universal suffrage and other women’s rights. |
| Scope | Observed only in India. | Observed worldwide. |
| Objective | Though it also serves as a platform to celebrate the contributions of Indian women in various fields and raise awareness about issues they face, it mainly marks the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. | To celebrate the achievements of women and raise awareness about persisting challenges faced by women |
Though differing in some respects, both days raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and recognize the contributions of women. They encourage action and dialogue on different aspects of women’s rights and empowerment.
Constitutional and Legal Framework
The Indian Constitution guarantees gender equality through its Preamble and Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy. Article 14 establishes legal equality for all individuals while Article 15 forbids discrimination against people based on their gender. The Article 51(a)(e) law directs citizens to stop activities that disrespect women’s dignity. The Directive Principles require equal job opportunities and equal salary rates and maternity benefits according to Articles 39 and 42.
India is a signatory to international treaties such as:
- Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
- International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR, 1966)
- Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW, 1979)
- Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995)
- United Nations Convention Against Corruption (2003)
- Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development
How is the Day Observed at the National Level?
The celebration of National Women’s Day in India is marked by a range of official and public events across the country. Government bodies, educational institutions, NGOs, and corporate entities organize various programs across the country to celebrate the National Day of Women. These events not only commemorate the legacy of Sarojini Naidu but also catalyze the ongoing dialogue and action towards achieving gender equality and empowering women in India.
Here is an overview of some common types of events that take place as part of National Women’s Day celebrations in India:
- Government bodies organize award ceremonies to recognize women who have made significant contributions in various fields such as education, health, social work, and governance.
- Cultural programs and exhibitions that showcase the achievements of women in the arts, literature, and traditional crafts also form a part of celebrations.
- Educational Institutions organize programs such as lectures, panel discussions, essay & debate competitions on topics related to gender equality, women’s empowerment, etc.
- Civil Society Organizations and Women’s Groups organize awareness campaigns on critical issues such as domestic violence, women’s rights, etc.
- Corporate Initiatives, usually, include special events for their female employees, CSR activities focused on supporting women’s empowerment projects, etc.
- Community Celebrations involve gatherings or informal meet-ups where women share their experiences, celebrate achievements, and discuss ways to support each other in their personal and professional lives.
Why does this day matter for Women’s Empowerment in India?
Much more than just marking the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, the celebration of the National Day of Women in India holds many significance as listed below:
- It acts as a reflection of the country’s ongoing journey towards gender equality and women’s empowerment.
- It is a day to honor the contributions of women in various fields, from politics and social reform to science and arts, and to acknowledge their indispensable role in shaping the nation’s destiny.
- Along with commemorating women’s success in every field, it aims to raise awareness against gender bias.
- The day also serves as a platform to discuss and decisive strategies to address the persisting gender disparities and other challenges that hinder women’s progress in India.
In summary, National Women’s Day, or the National Day of Women in India is not just a day to celebrate the birth of Sarojini Naidu but a day to honor all Indian women for their contributions and sacrifices. It is a day to reflect on the progress made towards achieving gender equality and to renew the commitment to addressing the challenges that women continue to face in India.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is National Women’s Day in India?
National Women’s Day or National Day of Women in India is celebrated annually on 13 February. The day marks the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a fierce freedom fighter and a celebrated poet of early 20th-century India.
Is 13th February Celebrated as National Women’s Day?
Yes, 13th February is celebrated as National Women’s Day to mark the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, who was born on 13th February 1879.
What is the Significance of National Women’s Day?
Along with marking the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, the National Women’s Day celebration in India is a reflection of the country’s commitment to achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Why do we Celebrate National Women’s Day?
National Women’s Day is celebrated in India to mark the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu. Along with honoring Sarojini Naidu, the day also serves as a platform for recognizing the significant contributions of women in various fields and raising awareness about the challenges faced by women in India.
Is International Women’s Day different from National Women’s Day?
Indian National Women’s Day, celebrated annually on 13 February, is different from International Women’s Day, which is celebrated globally and annually on 8 March. The two differ in many respects such as their origin, scope of celebrations, etc.
Is the Celebration of National Women’s Day exclusive to India?
National Women’s Day in India is an event different from International Women’s Day. As far as Indian National Women’s Day is concerned, it is celebrated exclusively in India. However, many other countries in the world celebrate their own National Women’s Day on designated days.
