World Compassion Day (WCD) is observed every year on 28 November to promote compassion, kindness, non-violence, animal welfare, and humanitarian values across the world.
Origin & Purpose
- The day was initiated by Pritish Nandy Communications in India as a global event to spread the message of Ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion toward all living beings.
- The goal is to create awareness about:
- Humanitarian actions
- Respect for animals
- Environmental protection
- Peaceful coexistence
- Ethical living
First Celebration (2012)
- The first World Compassion Day was held on 28 November 2012 in Mumbai, India.
- The event was inaugurated by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who delivered the keynote message on compassion and non-violence.
- The event highlighted:
- Human rights
- Spiritual values
- Animal rights
- The importance of compassion in public life
Why 28 November?
- The date was chosen to build a universal annual tradition celebrating compassion, and to align with global movements supporting peace and ethical treatment of all beings.
Significance
World Compassion Day inspires people to:
- Practice kindness in daily life
- Support causes related to animals and the environment
- Promote peace and harmony in society
- Encourage compassionate leadership and education
How the Day Is Observed
- Awareness programs
- Talks and workshops
- Animal welfare campaigns
- Community service activities
- Online compassion challenges