Father’s Day: History, Celebration, Quotes & Role of Father

Updated on September 8, 2026Author:NEXT IAS Contributors

Father's Day is a special day that honours fathers and fatherhood and acknowledges the strong support they offer to their families in a humble way. It is usually celebrated on the 3rd Sunday of June in India as well as in many other countries. The celebration of Father's Day as an official holiday dates back to the early 20th century when the idea was suggested by Sonora Smart Dodd in the United States. Her father was American Civil War veteran William Jackson Smart. With time, the holiday became popular around the world, and now it is widely commemorated. People typically spend their time with their fathers, exchange sincere words, give presents, make meals and create beautiful family memories. However, Father's Day also acknowledges how the role of fathers is evolving into that of caregivers, mentors and supporters.

Historical Background of the Celebration

The contemporary custom of celebrating Father's Day in the United States originated in the early 20th century. It is directly linked with Sonora Smart Dodd who aimed at commemorating her father, William Jackson Smart, a veteran of the Civil War who brought up six children as a single parent. Motivated by a Mother's Day sermon that she attended in 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd suggested creating a Father's Day. This idea was supported by the local church and the YMCA, and the first Father's Day took place in Spokane, Washington, on 19 June 1910.

Over time, the custom began spreading across the country. In 1924, President Calvin Coolidge backed the idea of commemorating Father's Day. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson designated the third Sunday of June as Father's Day. In 1972, this holiday became a national one due to Richard Nixon.

Famous Quotes

"A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow."
"पिता वह होते हैं, जिन्हें आप कितना भी बड़े हो जाएँ, हमेशा आदर से देखते हैं।"

"A father's love is a guiding light through every stage of life."
"पिता का प्यार जीवन के हर पड़ाव पर राह दिखाने वाली रोशनी है।"

"A father may hold your hand for a while, but he holds your heart forever."
"पिता कुछ समय के लिए हाथ थामते हैं, लेकिन हमेशा के लिए दिल में रहते हैं।"

"Behind every confident child is a father who believed in them."
"हर आत्मविश्वासी बच्चे के पीछे एक पिता का विश्वास होता है।"

"A father's greatest gift is not what he gives, but the values he teaches."
"पिता का सबसे बड़ा उपहार उनकी दी हुई चीज़ें नहीं, बल्कि उनके सिखाए हुए संस्कार हैं।"

Father's Day in India

Father's Day in India is celebrated on the third Sunday of June and has gained much popularity over the years, especially among families and the youth. Family members mark the day by spending time with each other, having meals, outings, or even just engaging in some meaningful conversation.

Kids usually show their appreciation by making cards for their fathers, giving presents, flowers, cakes, and even handwritten notes. Some families choose simple celebration methods by staying at home while others organize restaurant dinners, movie screenings, or short outings.

There are school programs where there are assemblies conducted, speeches, poetry, songs, and drawing, as well as card-making contests that give kids the chance to express their appreciation in a creative manner.

As a result of increased social media presence and awareness, more people participate in Father's Day celebrations in India although the message remains unchanged and simple - honoring their fathers and father figures for their love and guidance.

Role of Father

Father's Day does not only serve as an opportunity for gift-giving and celebrations but also acknowledges the emotional, social, and developmental contributions of fathers in families:

Emotional Significance: A loving and nurturing father can be a source of security, self-confidence, and belonging for their children. Significant connections between father and child may foster emotional wellness.
Role in Children's Development: Engaged fathers have been shown to have many benefits on children's cognitive, linguistic, social, and emotional development. Activities like playing, communication, reading and doing chores may promote this connection.
Caregiving and Responsible Parenting: Modern parenting goes past provision and discipline. Today's fathers actively participate as caregivers, advisors, educators, and emotional supporters, partnering with other parents in the process.
Acknowledgement of the Caregiver: On Father's Day, the value of acknowledging fathers' contributions to daily activities within the family and childcare is emphasised. Encouraging fathers to participate in caregiving can improve family dynamics and relationships.