Universal Children's Day celebrated by Saint Peter's School, India

Universal Children's Day 2016 was celebrated by the Saint Peter's Primary School in Simalia, India. This International United Nations Awareness Day was established in 1954 and is celebrated on November 20th each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children's welfare.

It was a beautiful bright morning on 14 November 2016 for the Universal Children’s Day Celebration. In India, Universal Children’s Day is celebrated on the 14th of November, but in other countries it is commonly celebrated on 20 November, as recommended by the United Nations.

All children of the Saint Peter’s School in Simalia were very happy and cheerful, greeting and wishing each other. As a tradition, some of the children were touching the feet of their teachers and asked for blessing. The day schedule for the pupils differed from a regular school day. After assembly prayer, everyone was in their classes, waiting for the teachers to call them for the programme. When the teachers were ready, the programme started by washing their hands, in order to show great respect and honour. They also handed them flowers and garlands.

The celebration continued with a welcome song, dance acts and the biography of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent India. He was a central figure in Indian politics before and after independence. He liked the children very much and spent every day a few hours with them. Children called him Chacha (Uncle Nehru) and showed a lot of sympathy.

At the end, Bro. Telesphor, principal of the school, spread a beautiful message to the children. He said: "This day belongs to the children. We, teachers, are here because of them. These children are our future. So, children need love, respect, care, education, and good food. We should always try to create a good atmosphere, a fine environment, and give them opportunity to grow. Today, by our good education, we prepare our pupils for a better future!" The celebration was ended by a cricket match. Everyone was very happy!