important days and dates during August 2025, including national and international observances, with a focus on India:
National and Indian Observances:
August 7: National Handloom Day
August 8: Jhulan Purnima (Odisha), Tendong Lho Rum Faat (Sikkim), Quit India Movement Day
August 9: Raksha Bandhan, World Sanskrit Day
August 13: Patriots Day (Manipur), World Organ Donation Day
August 14: Partition Horrors Remembrance Day
August 15: Independence Day of India
August 16: Janmashtami, Parsi New Year (various states like Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Gujarat & Maharashtra)
August 20: Sadbhavana Diwas, Indian Akshay Urja Day
August 23: ISRO Day
August 26: Hartalika Teej (Chhattisgarh & Sikkim), Women's Equality Day, Ganesh Chaturthi (various states like Andhra Pradesh, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Puducherry, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu), Onam begins (Kerala - main celebration in early September)
August 28: Nuakhai (Odisha), Ganesh Chaturthi holiday (Goa)
August 29: National Sports Day
International Observances:
August 1: World Lung Cancer Day, World Breastfeeding Week Begins (August 1-7), World Wide Web Day
August 3: National Watermelon Day
August 6: Hiroshima Day
August 8: International Cat Day
August 9: Nagasaki Day, International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
August 12: International Youth Day, World Elephant Day
August 13: International Lefthanders Day
August 19: World Photography Day, World Humanitarian Day
August 20: World Mosquito Day
August 21: International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism
August 22: International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief
August 23: International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition (UNESCO)
August 27: World Lake Day
August 29: International Day against Nuclear Tests
August 30: International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances
August 31: International Day for People of African Descent
Note on Holidays:
Independence Day (August 15) and Janmashtami (August 16) are gazetted holidays in India.
Many other days, particularly festivals, are regional holidays or restricted holidays, meaning bank and public sector closures may vary by state. It's always advisable to check specific state calendars for exact holiday schedules if planning activities that depend on bank or government office availability.
August 1: World Lung Cancer Day :
Observed annually since 2012 by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) and the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), this day raises awareness about lung cancer, its risk factors, and the importance of early detection and treatment. It aims to reduce the stigma associated with the disease and promote research for better outcomes.
August 1-7: World Breastfeeding Week
Coordinated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) with WHO and UNICEF, this week promotes and supports breastfeeding. Initiated in 1992, it highlights the health and economic benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child, advocating for supportive environments globally. The 2025 theme will likely focus on workplace support.
August 6: Hiroshima Day
Commemorated globally since 1947, Hiroshima Day marks the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 during World War II. It serves as a somber reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons and advocates for nuclear disarmament and world peace. Peace ceremonies are held worldwide.
August 7: National Handloom Day (India)
Celebrated annually in India since 2015, this day honors the handloom weaving community and highlights the significance of the handloom industry in India's socio-economic development. It commemorates the Swadeshi Movement launched on this day in 1905, encouraging the use of indigenous products and supporting weavers' livelihoods.
August 8: International Cat Day
Established in 2002 by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), this day celebrates one of the world's most popular pets. It aims to raise awareness about cat welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the plight of homeless cats. Various events promote adoption and proper care for felines.
August 9: Quit India Movement Day (India)
Observed since 1942, this day commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's call for an end to British rule in India during World War II. It marks the non-violent civil disobedience movement launched on August 8, 1942, signifying a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence.
August 9: International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1994, this day raises awareness and protects the rights of indigenous populations worldwide. It recognizes their contributions to global diversity and advocates for their self-determination, traditional knowledge, and unique cultures. The 2025 theme will be announced by the UN.
August 12: International Youth Day
Designated by the UN General Assembly in 1999, this day recognizes the potential of young people as partners in addressing global challenges. It promotes their participation in decision-making and highlights issues affecting youth worldwide. The 2025 theme will be determined by the UN.
August 13: World Organ Donation Day
Observed globally, this day raises awareness about the importance of organ donation and aims to dispel myths surrounding it. It encourages people to pledge their organs to save lives, highlighting the critical need for donors to meet the ever-increasing demand for transplants.
August 14: Partition Horrors Remembrance Day (India)
Announced by the Indian Prime Minister in 2021, this day remembers the victims and suffering caused by the partition of India in 1947. It aims to remind younger generations of the sacrifices and pain involved, promoting national unity and understanding of history.
August 15: Independence Day of India
Celebrated annually since 1947, this day marks India's independence from British rule. It honors the sacrifices of freedom fighters and signifies the birth of India as a sovereign nation. The Prime Minister hoists the national flag at the Red Fort, followed by cultural celebrations nationwide.
August 16: Janmashtami
A major Hindu festival, Janmashtami celebrates the birth of Lord Krishna. Observed with great devotion across India, devotees fast, sing devotional songs, and decorate temples. Many communities organize 'Dahi Handi' events, recreating Lord Krishna's childhood playful acts.
August 19: World Photography Day
Celebrated since 2010, this day commemorates the invention of the Daguerreotype, a photographic process, in 1839. It acknowledges photography as an art form, a historical record, and a powerful communication tool, encouraging photographers worldwide to share their work.
August 20: Sadbhavana Diwas (India)
Observed annually in India since 1992, this day commemorates the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. It promotes national integration, peace, harmony, and goodwill among people of all religions and languages, fostering communal amity.
August 23: ISRO Day (India)
Declared in 2023 by the Prime Minister, this day commemorates the historic successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon's south pole. It celebrates India's advancements in space technology and recognizes the dedication and achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
August 26: Women's Equality Day
First celebrated in 1973 in the United States, this day commemorates the adoption of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. It recognizes the ongoing struggle for gender equality and highlights the importance of women's rights in all spheres of life globally.
August 29: National Sports Day (India)
Celebrated annually in India since 2012, this day commemorates the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand. It aims to promote sports culture, physical activity, and healthy living among citizens, inspiring participation in various sports.