Grandparents Day

Grandparents' Day History

Grandparents Day is a global observance dedicated to acknowledging the importance of grandparents in the lives of their grandchildren and celebrating the values of love, care, tradition, and wisdom they impart. This special day emphasizes the critical role grandparents play in shaping the character of upcoming generations and nurturing family bonds. It serves as a reminder for young individuals to respect, honour, and cherish their grandparents for their invaluable contributions and life experiences.

Though its origin can be traced back to the United States in the early 1970s, Grandparents Day has found its way to India as well, with people recognizing the need to acknowledge the unconditional love, support, and guidance grandparents provide. The strong bond between generations is fundamental to Indian culture, as grandparents are traditionally seen as pillars of wisdom, integrity, and moral values. This observance thus aligns perfectly with the cultural ethos of India, which upholds the concept of joint families and unwavering respect for elders.

In India, Grandparents Day is observed in various ways, including organizing events at schools or local communities, wherein grandchildren express gratitude and love through cultural programs, art, and craft activities, drama, and storytelling sessions. Families often spend quality time with grandparents, preparing their favourite meals, and reminiscing shared memories. Although Grandparents Day is not yet a widely acknowledged national event, it is gradually gaining momentum with some states celebrating it on the second Sunday in October, while others follow the global trend of observing the special day on the second Sunday in September. Regardless of the specific date, the essence of Grandparents Day remains intact - to honour the love, wisdom, and sacrifices of grandparents and celebrate the unique bond shared with their grandchildren.

Grandparents Day facts

• Today, grandparents continue serving as quiet heroes in every corner of our country. From reading bedtime stories to their grandchildren to volunteering in their communities to acting as primary caregivers, they work hard each and every day while showing love and kindness to their families and those around them. Let us continue to show them the same, and let us forever honor their tremendous efforts to nurture, guide, and drive us in all we do. - US President Barack Obama, Presidential Proclamation, September 11, 2015
• The names for grandparents vary greatly among different cultures, anything from Nana, Grandpa, Grandma, to Abuela/Abuelo in Spanish, Nonna/Nonno in Italian, Oma/Opa in German, and Babushka/Dedushka in Russian.
• A 19-year long study in Berlin found that grandparents who provide occasional childcare live longer than those who do not.
• Indian grandparents often act as alternative caregivers when the parents are busy or away for work. They help in managing the household chores, cooking, and taking care of the children.
• Grandparents in India are often quite young, as young as their late 40s or early 50s. This is because marriages are generally arranged early in life, with many having their first child soon after.

In the News and Trending in India for Grandparents Day

Top things to do in India for Grandparents Day

• Adopt-a-grandparent. By 2030, it is expected that 5.3 million elderly individuals will be living in nursing homes. Of these, approximately 60% of nursing home residents do not receive visitors. Nursing homes often have volunteer programs that match volunteers to residents. Volunteer in a local nursing home to adopt-a-grandparent. Spend the time making arts and crafts, reading or just talking.
• Take your grandparents out for a dinner or Broadway Show.
• Take a leisurely walk with your grandparents at popular parks and gardens, such as the Lodhi Gardens in Delhi or the Hanging Gardens in Mumbai.
• Visiting historical monuments or landmarks in your city, like the Red Fort in Delhi or the Gateway of India in Mumbai, can be an excellent way to spend the day with grandparents while also learning about the history and culture of India.