Celebrating English Day – 23 April 2025

 

Celebrating English Day – 23 April 2025
Honouring the Language that Unites the World
Written by Acharya Ramesh Sachdeva

Every year, 23 April is celebrated globally as English Language Day – a tribute to one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, a language that transcends borders, cultures, and communities. The date marks both the birth and death anniversary of William Shakespeare, the greatest playwright and poet in the English language, making it a fitting occasion to honour the richness, history, and global influence of English.

Why Do We Celebrate English Day?

The United Nations established Language Days for each of its six official languages to promote multilingualism, cultural diversity, and equal use of all official languages. English Day celebrates the role of English in fostering international dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.

With over 1.5 billion people using English globally—whether as a native, second, or foreign language—it has become a bridge connecting people of different nations, professions, and ideologies. From global diplomacy to science, literature to technology, English is a key medium of communication.

Significance of 23 April

This date pays homage to William Shakespeare (1564–1616), whose literary works have left an indelible mark on the English language. His plays and poems introduced more than 1,700 new words to English and enriched its expressive power. Celebrating English Day on Shakespeare’s birthday is a celebration of creativity, linguistic innovation, and cultural heritage.

Themes and Activities for English Day 2025

The theme for English Day 2025 could be "Uniting Cultures Through Words", emphasising how English serves as a global connector, embracing diversity and fostering inclusivity.

Suggested Activities for Schools and Institutions:

• Shakespearean Plays and Poetry Recitations
  Students can perform famous scenes from Shakespeare’s plays or recite his sonnets to appreciate the beauty of his language.

• Word Games and Quizzes
  Organise Spelling Bees, Scrabble contests, or English language quizzes to engage students in a fun and educational way.

• Essay and Debate Competitions
  Topics could include “The Role of English in Global Communication” or “Has English Become the Global Language?”

• Language Exchange Programmes
  Promote interaction between students learning English and those learning other languages to foster multicultural understanding.

• Storytelling Sessions
  Encourage students to share folk tales from their culture in English, promoting both linguistic and cultural exchange.

The Global Impact of English

English is not just the language of the past; it is the language of the future. It plays a pivotal role in science, technology, aviation, diplomacy, business, and entertainment. The majority of the world's digital content, academic publications, and international treaties are in English.

Yet, it is essential to remember that multilingualism is as vital as the spread of English. Respecting and preserving local languages while using English as a global medium ensures that cultural identities remain strong.

A Reflection on Language as Power

Language is more than a tool of communication; it is a vehicle of thought, identity, and culture. English, with its diverse origins—from Germanic roots to Latin, French, and beyond—symbolises the interconnectedness of human societies.

As we celebrate English Day 2025, let us recognise the power of words to heal divisions, spread knowledge, and build a better world. Let us use English not just as a language but as a medium for empathy, understanding, and peace.

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“English is the common ground that connects the dreams of billions.”