Labour Day 2023: Check date and importance of May Day

Labour Day, also known as May Day or Worker's Day, is celebrated on May 1 to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by the labour class. The origin of Labour Day dates back to the 19th century in the United States, where the eight-hour day movement was launched to advocate for an eight-hour workday, eight hours of recreation, and eight hours of rest.

The primary objective of Labour Day is to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the working class, create awareness about their rights, and protect them from exploitation. This day is celebrated globally, and in some countries, it is referred to as Worker's Day.

In 2023, Labour Day will be observed on Monday, May 1. The concept of Labour Day in the United States dates back to the nationwide strike of 1886 for an eight-hour workday, which commenced on May 1 and culminated in the tragic Haymarket affair in Chicago, where a labour protest gathering turned violent after a bomb was thrown at the police, killing seven officers and four bystanders.


In India, the first Labour Day was celebrated on May 1, 1923, in Madras. It was initiated by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. This day is celebrated under different names across various Indian states, such as Kamgar Din (Hindi), Karmikara Dinacharane (Kannada), Karmika Dinotsavam (Telugu), Kamgar Divas (Marathi), Uzhaipalar Dhinam (Tamil), Thozhilaali Dinam (Malayalam), and Shromik Dibosh (Bengali).

The celebration of Labour Day in India aims to acknowledge and motivate the achievements of workers and labourers.

FAQs

Q. When is Labour Day 2023 in India?
A. Labour Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated on May 1 every year in India.

Q. Why is Labour Day celebrated?
A. Labour Day is celebrated to recognize and honour the achievements and contributions of the working class. It is a day to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and commitment of workers across the world who have made significant contributions to their respective societies.