World Father's Day today

World Father's Day is being observed today (June 21) across Bangladesh and many countries around the globe, honouring the invaluable contributions, sacrifices and unwavering support of fathers in shaping families and future generations.

Celebrated annually on the third Sunday of June, the day serves as a tribute to fathers and father figures whose dedication, responsibility and guidance play a vital role in the lives of their children.

Family experts say fathers are not only providers but also key architects of a child's moral values, discipline, education and personal development. From ensuring security and stability to supporting dreams and ambitions, fathers often make countless sacrifices behind the scenes, placing their children's well-being above their own needs and aspirations.

The origins of Father's Day trace back to the United States in 1910, when Sonora Smart Dodd proposed a special day to honour her father, William Jackson Smart, a Civil War veteran who single-handedly raised six children after the death of his wife. In recognition of fathers' contributions, Father's Day later gained official national recognition in the United States in 1972 and gradually spread to countries around the world.

Although the occasion is not a public holiday in Bangladesh, its popularity has grown significantly in recent years. Many people celebrate the day by spending time with their fathers, offering gifts, arranging family gatherings or sharing heartfelt messages and memories on social media.

Sociologists believe such observances help strengthen family bonds and encourage expressions of gratitude in an increasingly busy and fast-paced world. They note that Father's Day is more than a symbolic occasion; it is an opportunity to acknowledge the silent struggles, unconditional love and lifelong commitment that fathers dedicate to their families.