The tradition of celebrating Friendship Day began in 1935 when the US Congress decided to dedicate a day in the honor of friends. Though it is not known exactly what were the reasons that went into the making of this day, the retrospection of the world scenario of those times can lead us to an understanding. With the devastating effects of the First World War still showing and increasing hostilities, mistrust and hatred between countries providing the perfect conditions for another imminent battle, there was a greater need for friendship and camaraderie not only among nations but also among individuals.
Hence, the US
Congress decided to designate the first Sunday of the month of August as
Friendship Day and with a formal proclamation in 1935, officially declared the
occasion a holiday dedicated in the honor of friends and friendship. Since
then, celebration of National Friendship Day became an annual event. The lofty
idea of honoring the beautiful relationship of friendship caught on with the
people, particularly the youngsters all over the country, and in no time
Friendship Day became a highly popular festival.
