While the first observance of a Women's Day was held on February 28, 1909 in New York, March 8 was suggested by the 1910 International Woman's Conference to become an "International Woman's Day." After women gained suffrage in Soviet Russia in 1917, March 8 became a national holiday there. The day was then predominantly celebrated by the socialist movement and communist countries until it was adopted in 1975 by the United Nations.

Whether it’s women’s suffrage, the invention of the contraceptive pill, or improvements in the developing world, there’s plenty to be happy about.

It can’t pass without giving a huge thanks to the women that helped make that happen, though.

Women play a major role in our lives. But it is unfortunate that despite their crucial importance, they have to face many hardships throughout their life.

Especially in India, right from their adolescence, they are taught values of how to be emotionally strong and make sacrifices throughout their life. And who makes her do it? The societal norms around a woman force her to be like that.

However, slowly things are changing for the better. A day has been set up for breaking all the barriers of patriarchy in the society and honour the immense contribution women are making in the world - International Women's Day. It is celebrated on March 8 every year throughout the world.

 Why is this day celebrated?

• To call an action for gender quality

• To celebrate the womanhood

• To reflect courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in the history of their countries and communities