By P.V. Laxmiprasad
Mother’s Day, celebrated on May 12, is a heartfelt occasion dedicated to honouring the love, sacrifices, and unwavering devotion of mothers across the world. A mother is not just a member of the family—she is its foundation, a figure of boundless affection, strength, and resilience.
In every culture, the role of the mother holds deep significance. In Hindu traditions, she is revered with the invocation "Matrudevo Bhava", meaning Mother is like God. This phrase is the first part of a sacred verse, symbolizing the divine place a mother holds in one’s life. All prayers begin with a salutation to the Goddess, reflecting the sanctity and reverence accorded to motherhood.
A mother’s love is selfless and eternal. From comforting hugs to encouraging words, her affection is a guiding light that illuminates our path. Her presence is often the first emotional connection a child forms, making her influence on a child’s life unmatched. The celebration of Mother’s Day is rooted in acknowledging this exceptional devotion and sacrifice.
The value of mothers goes beyond the emotional. As the popular saying goes, "If you educate a woman, you educate a family." The importance of women’s education, especially mothers, has a ripple effect on households and communities. Educated mothers make informed decisions, promote better health, increase family income, and shape the character and success of future generations. India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, echoed this sentiment, stating, “If you educate a man, you educate an individual; but if you educate a woman, you educate a whole family.”
History offers many iconic examples of the pivotal role mothers have played. Jija Bai, the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, was a visionary woman who instilled values of courage and leadership in her son. In both ancient and modern narratives, mothers have been portrayed as creative forces, nurturing not just their children, but the very soul of the nation.
In a poetic tribute titled “A Son Speaks”, the depth of maternal love is captured beautifully:
Mother gives the birth of births, the great birth of human form,
She carries me in her womb of safety for nine magic months,
Feeling, feeding, and talking through umbilical cord,
A bond of mystic attachment…
Doing nights sleepless, she shares all in silence,
An affectionate pat on the back and head,
Like on earth, none could equal her.
This emotional verse pays homage to a mother’s tireless love—from childbirth to the nurturing of a child’s body, mind, and spirit.
Why Mother’s Day Matters
Mother’s Day holds immense importance as it provides a dedicated time to:
Express gratitude for the unconditional love, sacrifices, and daily acts of care by mothers.
Celebrate the essence of motherhood, which lies in nurturing, protecting, and guiding children.
Strengthen the family bond, encouraging members to spend quality time together and create cherished memories.
Recognize mothers as the architects of values and character, shaping not just individuals but entire generations.
Support the emotional well-being of mothers, validating their efforts and reinforcing their role in the family and society.
It is more than a symbolic occasion—it is a reminder of the invisible yet powerful work done by mothers every single day. From educating children to managing households, from emotional guidance to professional support, their contributions are unparalleled.
In conclusion, a mother is the first teacher, the primary caregiver, and the heart of the home. Her patience, strength, and love shape not only her children’s future but also the very fabric of society. She is, indeed, the jewel in the family’s crown—irreplaceable, revered, and worthy of celebration every day.
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