February 13 Declared English Language Day in Telangana Schools

All government schools across Telangana will observe English Language Day on February 13 , following directions issued by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), Telangana . The date marks the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu , revered as the “Nightingale of India.” SCERT Director G. Ramesh released official orders after considering a representation from the Telangana English Language Teachers’ Association, formalizing the annual observance in her honour. The initiative seeks not only to commemorate a towering literary figure but also to underline the global relevance of the English language and its role in education, communication, and cultural exchange. Education authorities have instructed that the celebrations be conducted meaningfully in all government schools, Zilla Parishad institutions, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs), model schools, and gurukul institutions across the state.

Students from Classes 6 to 10 will participate in a range of academic and creative programmes aligned with their learning outcomes. These include essay writing competitions, elocution contests , and creative workshops such as story writing, poetry composition, and poster making. Teachers have been advised to explain Sarojini Naidu’s literary achievements and her contributions to India’s national life, ensuring that the occasion becomes both educational and inspirational. The celebrations scheduled for February 13, 2026, are expected to highlight the cultural and international importance of English while encouraging students to develop language proficiency and creative expression.

Born on February 13, 1879, in Hyderabad to an educated Bengali family, Sarojini Naidu displayed extraordinary academic brilliance from childhood, completing her matriculation at the age of 12 before pursuing higher studies in England. She emerged as one of the earliest and most influential Indian poets writing in English, blending Western poetic forms with Indian themes, landscapes, and spiritual imagery. Her poetry, celebrated for its lyrical elegance, musical rhythm, and emotional depth , earned her the title “Nightingale of India.” Collections such as The Golden Threshold , The Bird of Time , and The Broken Wing introduced global readers to Indian life, traditions, and social realities, and scholars regard her as a pioneer who shaped the identity of Indian English literature.

Beyond literature, Sarojini Naidu played a vital role in India’s freedom struggle. Inspired by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Mahatma Gandhi, she entered public life and became known for her powerful oratory, courage, and dedication. In 1925, she made history as the first Indian woman to serve as President of the Indian National Congress. She actively participated in the Salt Satyagraha and the Quit India Movement, facing imprisonment several times. She was also a committed advocate of women’s empowerment, education, and social reform , believing that the progress of women was central to the nation’s development.

After India gained independence, she was appointed Governor of the United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh), becoming the first woman Governor of an Indian state. Her life remains a rare blend of literary excellence, political leadership, and social commitment . By dedicating English Language Day to her memory, Telangana schools are honouring not just a poet, but a national icon whose legacy represents the unity of language, culture, and service to the nation, inspiring students to value both the richness of English and the power of education to shape society.