Father's Day in India 2024: Date, History, Significance and How to Honour Dad!

A father, a pillar of strength in a family, is the real ‘superhero’ of every child and is often considered the one who never asks for anything in return for his love and dedication towards his kids. Honouring and celebrating the “special person” in our lives, Father’s Day is marked every year. Besides being a parent, they play several key roles in our lives including that of a mentor, friend and guide.

They remain dedicated towards the child’s upbringing and development. He is the one who makes all possible efforts to nurture the child’s growth along with providing emotional support and guidance. Around the world, fathers embody dedication, resilience and unwavering commitment to their families.

Father’s Day 2024 Date

There is no specific date for Father’s Day globally as several countries mark the day on different occasions. In India, the occasion is marked on the third Sunday of June every year. As a result, this year, Father’s Day in India is being celebrated on June 16.

In countries like Spain, Portugal, Croatia and Italy, the day is marked on March 19, while in Thailand, Father’s Day is celebrated on December 5.

Father’s Day History

Its origin can be traced back to the early 20th century in the US and the credit for recognising this day goes to Sonora Smart Dodd, who hailed from Spokane in Washington. After getting inspired by Mother’s Day, the lady came up with the idea of honouring her father — William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran — who single-handedly raised six of his children after their mother’s demise.

As Dodd advocated for a day to commemorate fathers around the world, her efforts soon showed results when the first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, in the region.

It was not until 1972 when then US President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation, which officially recognised Father’s Day as a national holiday in the country. In several countries around the world, the third Sunday of June every year is marked as Father’s Day.

Father’s Day 2024: Significance

Father’s Day holds great significance as it provides an opportunity to honour and celebrate the role of fathers in our lives, just like Mother’s Day. On this day, children express heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for all the love, guidance, and sacrifices their fathers make to support their families.

Also, this day fosters a strong bond and connection between a man and his children. By celebrating their day through various shared activities, spending quality time, and creating lasting memories, people get to strengthen the father-children relationship, enhancing family dynamics.

Father’s Day 2024: Celebration

There are several ways to make this day a memorable one for your father. From giving them gifts to taking them out shopping or even spending time together, there are a lot of things that can be done to make them feel ‘special’ on this day.

1. Plan an outingGo for a hike, bike ride, fishing trip, or sporting event together.Have a game night: Dust off some board games or play video games as a family.
2. Do a project togetherThis could be anything from fixing something around the house to working on a shared hobby.
3. Relax togetherEnjoy a movie marathon, have a barbecue in the backyard, or simply chat and catch up.
4. Make breakfast in bedStart his day off right with his favorite breakfast foods.
5. Write a heartfelt letter or poemExpress your love and appreciation for all he’s done for you.
6. Create a photo collage or scrapbookFill it with memories and special moments you’ve shared.
7. Give him a homemade giftBaked goods, a painting, or a framed photo are thoughtful options.
8. Plan a surprise partyGet the whole family involved in celebrating him!
9. Get tickets to a concert or sporting eventIf there’s something he’s been wanting to see, treat him to an experience he’ll remember.
10. Book a spa day or massageHelp him relax and de-stress.
11. Take him on a weekend getawaySpend some quality time together in a new place.
12. Gift him a class or workshopIs there something he’s always wanted to learn? Cooking, woodworking, or photography classes can be a fun way to explore new interests.