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What is Labour Day?
Labour Day, also known as May Day or ଶ୍ରମିକ ଦିବସ or International Workers’ Day, is observed every year on May 1st to recognize the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In India, this day is a public holiday in many states, including Odisha, and it holds great importance for trade unions, government workers, daily wage earners, and industrial laborers.
Significance of Labour Day in India 🇮🇳
India celebrates Labour Day as a tribute to the working class and their role in nation-building. The first Labour Day in India was celebrated on May 1, 1923 in Chennai (then Madras) by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan. It was also the first time the red flag, symbolic of labor solidarity, was used in India.
Labour Day in Odisha 🌾⚒️
In Odisha, Labour Day (called Shramik Diwas in Odia) is observed with respect and solidarity, especially in industrial towns like Rourkela, Angul, Talcher, and Jharsuguda. These regions are hubs of mining, steel, power, and manufacturing industries, where lakhs of workers toil daily.
Local labor unions often organize:
👉 Meetings and rallies highlighting workers' demands.👉 Cultural shows to celebrate Odia labor culture.
In Western Odisha, where agriculture and traditional crafts (like weaving and Sambalpuri textiles) are dominant, rural laborers, artisans, and daily wage workers are also celebrated.
Wishes & Messages for Labour Day 2025
Conclusion
Labour Day is a reminder that every hand that works, whether in a field, factory, mine, or market, deserves dignity, safety, and respect. Odisha, with its rich labor heritage from steel plants to Sambalpuri weaves, stands tall in this celebration.
This May 1st, let us raise our voices for fair wages, better working conditions, and recognition for all forms of labor.
Happy Labour Day 2025!
