Valentine's Day
203 days until Valentine's Day
About Valentine's Day
Celebrated annually on 14 February, Valentine's Day is a widely recognised observance in India dedicated to romance, affection, and personal relationships. Although rooted in ancient Western history, it has grown into a major cultural and retail event across urban India.
History
The observance traces its historical origins to Saint Valentine, a third-century Roman priest. According to tradition, he secretly performed Christian marriages for young soldiers after Emperor Claudius II banned matrimony in the belief that unmarried men made better soldiers. Following his imprisonment and execution on 14 February, Saint Valentine became associated with romantic devotion and courtly love.
In India, Valentine's Day gained widespread visibility in the mid-1990s following economic liberalisation. The rise of satellite television, private media outlets, and specialty greeting card chains introduced global romantic traditions to urban youth, turning the observance into a prominent commercial period across the country.
Traditions & Celebrations
In India, the observance is often preceded by a week-long celebration known as 'Valentine Week', which begins on 7 February with Rose Day and progresses through Propose Day, Chocolate Day, Teddy Day, Promise Day, Hug Day, and Kiss Day. On 14 February itself, couples exchange greeting cards, red roses, chocolates, and personalized gifts, while restaurants and shopping centers offer romantic dining deals and festive decor. Online gifting platforms and local florists in major metropolitan areas experience peak demand throughout the day.
Did you know?
- In India, the build-up to Valentine's Day includes a seven-day sequence of themed observances called 'Valentine Week', starting on 7 February with Rose Day.
- In February 2023, the Animal Welfare Board of India issued a notice proposing that 14 February be observed as 'Cow Hug Day', though the advisory was withdrawn shortly afterwards.
- The oldest surviving romantic Valentine note was composed in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orléans, who wrote a poem to his wife while imprisoned in the Tower of London.
- The name 'Valentine' originates from the Latin name Valentinus, derived from the word 'valens', which signifies strength or good health.
Valentine's Day dates by year
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Valentine's Day a public holiday in India?
No, Valentine's Day is an informal observance and not a national or state public holiday in India.
When did Valentine's Day become popular in India?
Valentine's Day became commercially popular in urban India during the mid-1990s following economic liberalisation and the expansion of private television networks.