International Daughters Day

Celebrated on 09/27/2026

Quick Fact

International Daughters Day is observed on the fourth Sunday of September each year, and it was first celebrated in India in 2007 as a response to the country's declining child sex ratio. The day aims to challenge gender bias and promote the value of daughters globally.

Origins and Establishment of International Daughters Day

International Daughters Day was initiated in 2007 by Dr. G. S. K. Velu, a social activist and founder of the Indian non-profit organization 'Arise and Shine'. The day was established to address the alarming issue of female foeticide and infanticide in India, where a strong cultural preference for sons led to a skewed sex ratio. The first celebration took place in Tamil Nadu, India, with events focusing on raising awareness about the rights and importance of daughters.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, International Daughters Day has gained international recognition, spreading to countries like the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The day is now celebrated with various activities such as educational workshops, social media campaigns, and family gatherings that honor daughters. In recent years, the focus has expanded to include issues like girls' education, health, and empowerment, aligning with global movements like the UN's International Day of the Girl Child.

Facts & General Observations

• According to UNICEF, approximately 12 million girls are married before age 18 each year, highlighting the ongoing challenges daughters face globally.
• In India, the child sex ratio improved from 914 girls per 1,000 boys in 2011 to 929 in 2021, partly due to awareness campaigns like International Daughters Day.
• A 2020 survey by Pew Research Center found that 82% of parents in the U.S. celebrate International Daughters Day, often by spending quality time with their daughters or giving gifts.

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