Happy Friendship Day: History, Significance, Celebration and Greeting Messages

Dr.Santosh Kumar Sain
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Friendship Day, also referred to as International Friendship Day or Friend's Day, is a joyous occasion celebrated in numerous countries to honor the bond of friendship. Initially promoted by the greeting card industry, Friendship Day has witnessed a resurgence of interest due to the influence of social networking sites, especially in India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia. The widespread use of mobile phones, digital communication, and social media has played a significant role in popularizing this tradition. In South Asia, there are enthusiastic advocates who actively promote the celebration of Friendship Day.

Happy Friendship Day: History, Significance, Celebration and Greeting Messages


Happy Friendship Day 2023

Happy Friendship Day 2023! Today, we celebrate the essence of true friendship. Friendship Day is a dedicated occasion to cherish the beautiful bond between friends, a connection that transcends blood relations. In the realm of friendship, two hearts meet, and any shared interests, attachments, and mutual respect form the bedrock of this extraordinary relationship.

A genuine friend is like an ally from outside your immediate circle, someone who wholeheartedly wishes for your well-being, guides you through right and wrong, and stands by you in both joy and sorrow. Friendship Day celebrated on the first Sunday of August, serves as an opportunity to strengthen these precious bonds and foster even more love and camaraderie among friends.

This Friendship Day, take the chance to express your heartfelt wishes to all your friends, whether they are nearby or far away. From the friends you made in school and college to those you met during your work journey, let them all know how special they are by sending heartfelt messages on WhatsApp or Facebook. Celebrate the spirit of friendship and cherish the moments you've shared together.

History of Friendship Day 

Friendship Day traces its origins back to 1958 when Joyce Hall first proposed the idea in Paraguay. This special day aimed to celebrate the essence of friendships on a global scale. Initially observed on 2 August, the date later shifted to 7 August due to de-synchronization in the United States.

In 1998, Nane Annan designated Winnie the Pooh as the world's Ambassador of Friendship at the United Nations to commemorate Friendship Day. This event was co-hosted by Kathy Lee Gifford and co-sponsored by the U.N. Department of Public Information and Disney Enterprises.

The concept of a Global Friendship Day originated on 20 July 1958 during a gathering in Puerto Pinasco, Paraguay, where Dr. Ramon Artemio Bracho proposed the idea. This gathering marked the birth of the World Friendship Crusade, a foundation promoting friendship and fellowship among people regardless of race, color, or religion. Since then, Paraguay has fervently celebrated Friendship Day on 30 July each year, and this tradition has been embraced by many other countries.

The World Friendship Crusade tirelessly lobbied the United Nations to recognize 30 July as World Friendship Day. In 2011, the General Assembly of the United Nations made the decision to designate 30 July as the International Day of Friendship. All Member States were encouraged to celebrate this day in accordance with their local, national, and regional customs and traditions, including organizing education and public awareness-raising activities.

Friendship Day is celebrated on various dates in different countries throughout the year. In Ecuador, Mexico, Venezuela, Finland, Estonia, and the Dominican Republic, it falls on 14 February, diverging from Valentine's Day. South Africa observes it on 16 April, while Singapore celebrates during the third week of April.

On 9 June, Ukraine marks its Friendship Day, while Ecuador and Venezuela have a second celebration on 14 July. Pakistan follows suit on 19 July, and Bolivia on 23 July. In Nepal, Friendship Day is celebrated on 30 July.

In Paraguay, 29 July is dedicated to giving gifts to close friends and family, often celebrated in bars and nightclubs. The tradition of the Invisible Friend involves exchanging gifts with the person whose name is drawn in secret, a custom practiced in schools and workplaces.

Peru has been celebrating "El dia del Amigo" on the first Saturday of July since 2009, aiming to recognize and honor true friendship separate from Valentine's Day.

Argentina, Brazil, Spain, and Uruguay commemorate Friendship Day on 20 July, thanks to the efforts of Enrique Ernesto Febbraro, an Argentine dentist and Rotarian who initiated the celebration as a unifying gesture of friendship among nations. His inspiration came from the day Neil Armstrong stepped on the Moon. In Argentina, Friend's Day has become a significant mass phenomenon, leading to extensive well-wishing messages and calls that even caused mobile network disruptions in the past. It is a day for friendly gatherings, where people greet both current and old friends, and seats in restaurants and establishments are often booked well in advance.

Celebrations in August

In August, India commemorates Friendship Day on the first Sunday of the month. The celebration gained significant popularity among teenagers and young adults in the early 1990s, largely influenced by Bollywood movies. During this special occasion, friends exchange Friendship bands, which are ribbon bands, as a symbol of celebrating their bond. College students often participate in the festivities by wearing white t-shirts and writing each other's names or friendship quotes on them. It's a joyous time for friends to express their appreciation and affection for one another.

Greeting Messages for Friendship Day


"To my dearest friend, thank you for filling my life with laughter, love, and unforgettable memories. Happy Friendship Day!"


"Wishing you a Friendship Day filled with joy, smiles and the warmth of our beautiful bond. You are an amazing friend!"


"Cheers to the friends who make every day brighter! Happy Friendship Day to the one who brings sunshine into my life."


"Friendship is a treasure, and you are the gem I'm lucky to have in my life. Happy Friendship Day, my dear friend!"


"On this special day, I want you to know that you are not just a friend but family. Here's to a lifelong bond! Happy Friendship Day!"


"Through thick and thin, you've been by my side, and I'm grateful for your unwavering friendship. Happy Friendship Day!"


"Friendship is the magic that makes life more beautiful. Thank you for being my magical friend. Happy Friendship Day!"


"Sending virtual hugs and smiles on Friendship Day to let you know how much you mean to me. You're the best!"


"A true friend is a treasure that shines brighter with time. Here's to a friendship that will stand the test of time. Happy Friendship Day!"


"Life's journey becomes more delightful with friends like you. Wishing you a day filled with love and laughter. Happy Friendship Day!"

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