About World Poetry Day
World Poetry Day is observed on 21 March. It was adopted by UNESCO in 1999 to support linguistic diversity through poetry, give endangered languages a chance to be heard and honour poets past and present.
UNESCO declared 21 March as World Poetry Day in 1999, at its General Conference in Paris. The day recognises poetry as a form of human creativity and as a way of keeping languages alive, including endangered ones.
Poetry is one of the oldest forms of expression. It is spoken, sung, written and performed, and it connects oral traditions with modern writing. The day also encourages the teaching of poetry, the revival of oral traditions and the dialogue between poetry and other arts such as music, theatre and painting.
How it is marked
Libraries, schools and literary groups hold readings, recitation contests and open mics. Publishers and bookshops promote poetry collections, and many people share a favourite verse online. India has a long poetic heritage across dozens of languages, from ancient Sanskrit and Tamil verse to Urdu ghazals, bhakti songs and modern writing, so the day is a good moment to read a poem in a language you know less well.
What to write
Share a line you love or write a few lines of your own, even if they are simple.
- Your words have kept me company on quiet days. Thank you for writing. Happy World Poetry Day.
- Some feelings only fit in a poem. Here is my small one for you. Please go easy on the rhymes.
- To the friend who still sends me verses at midnight, never stop. Happy Poetry Day.
How to wish someone on World Poetry Day
the poets and poems we love, the beauty of words and the many languages in which we write
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 is the aim of World Poetry Day?
Its aim is to support linguistic diversity through poetic expression, help endangered languages be heard, and encourage reading, writing and teaching poetry.
How can students mark World Poetry Day?
Students can hold a recitation or poem-writing session, read poems in their mother tongue, or make a class anthology. Pairing a poem with a drawing or song is another way to bring it to life.
Can I write my own poem in a greeting card?
Yes. A short, simple verse written for one person often means more than a famous quote. Keep it to a few lines and speak about a real memory or feeling.
When is World Poetry Day in 2026?
World Poetry Day 2026 falls on Saturday, 21 March 2026.
What is World Poetry Day?
World Poetry Day is observed on 21 March. It was adopted by UNESCO in 1999 to support linguistic diversity through poetry, give endangered languages a chance to be heard and honour poets past and present.
Is World Poetry Day a public holiday?
Holiday status for World Poetry Day varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on World Poetry Day?
Focus on the poets and poems we love, the beauty of words and the many languages in which we write. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated World Poetry Day card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .