Yesterday was International Men’s Day- how many of us know about it? It is observed on 19 November each year to recognise men’s contributions to family, society, and community. The day highlights positive male role models and promotes awareness about men’s health, gender equality, and responsible fatherhood. 

It also encourages discussions on issues men often face, including mental health challenges, workplace safety, and social expectations. Many countries celebrate by hosting seminars, community events, charity activities, school programs, and campaigns that promote respectful relationships. 

In South Asia, the day increasingly focuses on men’s role in supporting families, reducing gender-based violence, and creating a more balanced, caring society. International Men’s Day ultimately aims to inspire kindness, responsibility, and well-being for all.

 

History and Origin

Although the idea had earlier roots, International Men’s Day in its modern form was revived in 1999 by Dr Jerome Teelucksingh in Trinidad and Tobago. 

 

He chose November 19

Jerome honours his father’s birthday. Mark a moment of national unity in Trinidad and Tobago’s history (their men’s football team). Before this, there were early attempts: the first version was conceived in 1992 by Thomas Oaster at the University of Missouri. Over time, it spread globally and is now officially celebrated in many countries. 

Why Do People Celebrate It?

International Men’s Day is not just a celebration; it’s also a platform. Its main goals include:

• Promoting Positive Male Role Models
• Encouraging men to be supportive, caring, responsible, and constructive in their roles. 

Highlighting Men’s Health and Well-Being

Focus on mental, physical, and emotional health. Raising awareness about issues like suicide, especially since men often have a higher risk.

Improving Gender Relations

Fostering dialogue about how men and women can understand and support each other.

Addressing Discrimination Against Men

Acknowledging that some men face specific social or legal challenges.

Celebrating Men’s Contributions

Appreciating men’s roles in family, community, work, and society. 

Creating a Better World for Everyone

Encouraging a world where men and boys can achieve their potential healthily and respectfully. These are sometimes called the “six pillars” of International Men’s Day. 

Themes of International Men’s Day

Each year, there’s often a theme to focus the conversation or activities. For example:

In 2025, the global theme is “Celebrating Men and Boys”. Other themes in past years have included “Zero Male Suicide” (highlighting mental health) and “Helping Men and Boys”.

Why It Matters

Many men face social pressures and mental health struggles that are often overlooked. It’s a chance to celebrate men’s positive impact on their families, communities, and society.

It encourages men to express vulnerability and to seek help, reducing stigma around emotional and mental challenges. By talking about men’s issues, the day supports better gender equality, not by competing with International Women’s Day, but by addressing gender-specific challenges.

How Is It Celebrated?

Community Events

Seminars, workshops, health check-ups, and panel discussions. 

Media Campaigns

Social media posts, articles, and videos are raising awareness about men’s well-being and role models. 

Recognition

Highlighting “positive male role models” in families, workplaces, and schools.

Advocacy

Encouraging policy or community support for men’s issues, including mental health services.

Criticism and Debate on Men's Day

Some people question whether a separate “men’s day” is needed, especially compared to International Women’s Day. There’s also debate about how the day is used: in some places, it’s highly inclusive and health-focused; in others, it’s criticised for being co-opted by anti-feminist groups. 

Despite this, many supporters emphasise that IMD is not about privilege, but about recognising specific pressures men face and promoting a healthier, more positive model of masculinity. 

How International Men’s Day Is Observed in South Asia

International Men’s Day in South Asia is observed through awareness events, discussions on men’s health, community activities, school programs, and campaigns promoting positive masculinity and gender equality.

Awareness & Workshops

In India, IMD is often marked with mental health workshops, seminars, and discussions around men’s emotional well-being, fatherhood, work-life balance, and changing gender roles. These sessions are usually organised by NGOs, educational institutions, or social organisations. 

Positive Role Models

A key part of IMD celebrations is promoting positive male role models, not just celebrities or sports stars, but everyday men who live ethically and contribute to their families and communities. In South Asia, there’s increasing emphasis on redefining masculinity: encouraging men to show vulnerability, care, and emotional strength. 

Health Campaigns

Men’s physical and mental health is a big focus. In Bangladesh, for example, IMD is linked to raising awareness about men’s health problems like mental stress, suicide risk, and social pressures. Health check-ups and preventive health campaigns are sometimes tied to IMD messaging locally.

Gender Relations and Equality

Some discussions during IMD in South Asia are about gender relations, how to build more understanding between men and women, and challenging traditional gender stereotypes. The day can serve as a platform for advocating gender equality from a men’s perspective, emphasising that supporting men’s well-being also helps broader gender balance. 

Public Events & Recognition

In Bangladesh, there have been rallies and public gatherings. For instance, a rally was held demanding amendments related to male violence prevention, showing that IMD can also be a moment for activism.

In India, organisations hold symposiums and public dialogues. For example, a Rotary Club in Nagpur organised a talk titled “Purush: Vartaman Aur Bhavishya” (Men: Present and Future) to reflect on changing roles.

Media & Social Media Campaigns

On IMD, social media in South Asia often features messages of appreciation, quotes, and stories about men’s roles in family and society. Media outlets publish articles about men’s mental health, the importance of male role models, and contemporary challenges for men.

 

Criticism & Debate

In South Asia, like elsewhere, IMD is sometimes debated. Some people question whether it’s needed or worry it could be misused. Also, because IMD isn’t as big or institutionalised as some other awareness days, many of its observances are grassroots and not always very visible.

Why It’s Important in the South Asian Context

Mental Health Stigma

In many South Asian societies, men face strong expectations to be “tough” or self-reliant. IMD gives a space to talk about vulnerability, stress, and mental health in a socially acceptable way.

Changing Gender Norms

As gender roles evolve, IMD can support conversations about how men can be caring, equal partners, not just providers.

Role Models for Younger Generations

Celebrating everyday men who live positively helps boys and young men see more diverse and healthier models of masculinity.

 

Conclusion

International Men’s Day highlights the diverse roles and contributions of men while encouraging healthier, more supportive models of masculinity. It promotes awareness of men’s health, well-being, and social responsibilities, fostering dialogue on equality and positive behaviour. 

The day also emphasises respect, empathy, and cooperation among all genders. Through community events, discussions, and educational activities, International Men’s Day serves as a reminder that supporting men’s emotional and social needs strengthens families, communities, and society as a whole.