About International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is observed on 8 March. It celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and calls for faster progress towards gender equality. The United Nations has marked the day since 1975.
International Women’s Day grew out of labour and women's rights movements in North America and Europe in the early twentieth century, as women campaigned for better working conditions and the right to vote. The United Nations began marking 8 March in 1975, during International Women's Year.
Today the day has two sides. It celebrates what women have achieved in every field, and it points to the gaps that remain in pay, safety, education, health and leadership. Both matter, and the best messages honour the person while supporting the wider cause.
How it is marked
Offices hold talks, mentoring sessions and awards that recognise women colleagues. Schools and colleges run debates, essay competitions and events on women who changed history. In India, the Nari Shakti Puraskar, a national award honouring women's contributions, is traditionally presented around this day, and many people use it to thank the mothers, sisters, teachers and friends who shaped them.
What to write
Name something real the person has done or taught you, rather than using general praise.
- To the woman who taught me courage by example, thank you. Happy Women's Day, Maa.
- The way you handled that client review last week still has the whole team talking. Happy International Women's Day.
- To my hostel girls, who got me through exams, heartbreak and bad mess food. Happy Women's Day, you lot.
How to wish someone on International Women’s Day
the women who inspire us, their achievements, and a shared commitment to equality and respect
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
What colours are associated with International Women’s Day?
Purple, green and white are widely used. Purple is often linked with justice and dignity, green with hope and white with purity, colours that trace back to the women's suffrage movement in the United Kingdom.
Why is International Women’s Day on 8 March?
The date is linked to women's protests of the early twentieth century, including a 1917 women's strike in Russia that began on 8 March in the Gregorian calendar. The UN adopted the date when it began celebrating the day in 1975.
What should I avoid writing on a Women's Day card?
Avoid praising women only for sacrifice or for doing everything at home, and skip clichés about women being delicate or needing protection. Recognise the person's choices, talents and achievements instead.
When is International Women’s Day in 2026?
International Women’s Day 2026 falls on Sunday, 8 March 2026.
What is International Women’s Day?
International Women’s Day is observed on 8 March. It celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and calls for faster progress towards gender equality. The United Nations has marked the day since 1975.
Is International Women’s Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Women’s Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Women’s Day?
Focus on the women who inspire us, their achievements, and a shared commitment to equality and respect. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Women’s Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .