10/05/2026
International Mother's Day & Mother Earth
Today, the 10th May is the “International Mother’s Day”. This day was started since 1905 as called by Anna Jarvis after her mother’s dead. Mothers are the origin of our lives. From giving us birth to the moment she departed; she always cares for us. True kindness and affection are her pulse. Immeasurable love, prolonged struggles and caring for us is her respiration. Someone might be having their mothers and someone might not be, but love for mothers are the same.
Amid all the celebrations for mothers, we often forget another mother who plays an equally significant role in existence of every living being on this planet – Mother Earth. Just as our biological mothers give us life, Mother Earth has provided us everything we need for survival – air, water, food and shelter. She has been our constant provider, giving us everything we need to thrive, while also maintaining a balance that sustains life.
Mother's Day is an ideal time to honor the nurturing figures in our lives while protecting the planet - our ultimate "Mother Earth" - which sustains all life. Combining these days can serve as a catalyst for making daily lifestyle changes, such as adopting renewable energy, reducing waste and buying local to protect the planet.
Like a mother, our planet is nurturing but also facing crisis; we need to take action against pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change. Just as we care for our mothers, we must act as responsible stewards of the Mother Earth, treating the environment with respect.
Mother Earth is more than just the environment we live in; she is the foundation of life itself. From the air we breathe to the water we drink, every part of our survival is tied to the natural world. Her beauty and energy can be seen and felt in everywhere. When we step outside into the open air, we can feel her embrace. Nature has an incredible power to heal, restore and soothe our minds and bodies.
When we find ourselves stressed and overwhelmed by the chaos of daily life, all it takes is a walk in the park or a hike through the woods to feel rejuvenated. The sight of greenery, the sound of rustling leaves, and the scent of fresh flowers have an innate ability to calm our minds. Nature’s natural beauty lifts our spirits, helping us reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.
Mother Nature’s healing power is not just metaphorical – it is supported by science. Studies have shown that spending time in nature has a wide range of physical and psychological benefits. Natural environments help reduce mental fatigue and improve cognitive function, providing a much-needed respite from the demands of modern life.
One of the most important gifts that Mother Nature has given us is trees. These majestic beings are not just beautiful to look at but are essential to our survival. They are the natural air conditioners, cooling the environment and serve the habitat for countless species, contributing to the biodiversity that sustains the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
Just as our mother care for our personal needs, the environment supplies us the essential of life. Both our mothers and Mother Earth are selfless givers. Our mothers nurture us from birth, while Mother Earth provides the resources necessary for our survival and well-being. Cultures worldwide have honored the "Mother Earth" as the collective mother of all living things, highlighting nature’s role as our primary caregiver.
Mother’s Day and Mother Earth are connected by the shared values of love and protection. By respecting, protecting and cherishing the environment, we are not only ensuring a sustainable future but also honoring both the mother and Mother Earth.
In India, the Mother Earth is worshipped as a goddess. The concept of Mother Earth in India is rooted in our traditional and cultural belief. Indians believe that the Earth is a manifestation of the divine and that we worship the divine by worshipping the Earth.
Mother has every right to get her respect because she is part of our life in every bad and good situation. Mother sacrifices everything. She works hard for a positive attitude to her child and also in the family. Sometimes mother gets angry but while seeing the result, it was for our best.
Mother’s Day celebration is observed in the honor of all the mothers, thanking them for their motherhood, their teachings and their contributions to the society. This day reminds us of the strong bonding that exists between a mother and child and how it is important to uphold the relationship to the very end of live. But Mother has the power to create her child on other sides of the world also. Therefore, Napoleon once told, “Give me a good mother, I will conquer the world”.
On this Mother’s Day, let’s honor both our mothers and Mother Earth by doing our part to protect the environment and embrace sustainable living. It’s time to show our appreciation for all that mother gives us and work together to ensure for a healthier and more vibrant planet for all.
Dr. N. Munal Meitei
Environmentalist, presently working as DFO/Chandel
