About International Friendship Day

The emotions and feelings related to friendship are difficult to decipher. From ancient times, there have been numerous instances of friendship that changed the entire meaning of humanity. The friendship is one such emotion which is well utilized by the writers and directors into books, literary works or movies.

Emphasizing on the importance of friendship, the great ancient Greek Philosopher and scientist exclaimed, "Man is by nature a social animal; an individual who is unsocial naturally and not accidentally is either beneath our notice or more than human. Society is something that precedes the individual. Anyone who either cannot lead the common life or is so self-sufficient as not to need to, and therefore does not partake of society, is either a beast or a god. "

The virtue of friendship has been appreciated by one and all over the world. International Friendship Day was declared by the United Nations in 2011 with the idea that friendship between people, cultures, and countries can inspire peace and build bridges between communities. It is celebrated on 30th July each year in Singapore & several other countries. This campaign promotes unity within diversity. The UN wanted to commemorate the day to involve young people, as future leaders, in activities that promote international understanding and respect for diversity.

It is also known as World Friendship Day that is observed by nations to promote friendship & peace across cultures. The idea of World Friendship Day was initiated by Dr Ramon Artemio Bracho in 1958 when he was enjoying dinner with his friends in Puerto Pinasco in Paraguay. The dinner gave rise to World Friendship Crusade. It is a foundation that promotes friendship among all humans regardless of their race, ethnicity and religion. Later, the UN declared International Friendship day on 30th July. Some countries including India, Spain, Mexico, and Pakistan, etc. have their own dates for celebrating Friendship Day.