Valentine's Week

Valentine's Week is a week-long celebration of romantic love that is observed in India each year from February 7 (Rose Day) to 14 February (Valentine's Day).[1] The celebration consists of eight consecutive themed days leading up to Valentine's Day, with each day dedicated to a different aspect of romantic relationships.[2]

History and Origins

Coverage of Valentine's Week in India has highlighted increased marketing and gift-buying in the period leading up to February 14. Reporting has also described the week preceding Valentine's Day as having gained popularity in India.[3]

The Themed Days

The themed days of Valentine's Week are celebrated as follows:

  1. February 7 - Rose Day: The week begins with Rose Day, when people exchange roses to symbolise love and affection.
  2. February 8 - Propose Day: A day dedicated to proposing to a romantic interest or reaffirming commitment to an existing partner.
  3. February 9 - Chocolate Day: Couples exchange chocolates to celebrate the sweetness of their relationship.
  4. February 10 - Teddy Day: Partners gift teddy bears as tokens of affection and comfort.
  5. February 11 - Promise Day: A day for making commitments and promises to strengthen relationships.
  6. February 12 - Hug Day: Celebrated through warm embraces and physical affection.
  7. February 13 - Kiss Day: The penultimate day dedicated to intimate gestures between partners.
  8. February 14 - Valentine's Day: Final day of the romantic celebrations.[1][2]

Cultural Significance

Survey reporting shows a substantial share of urban Indians intending to celebrate Valentine's Day.[4][5][6] The week-long observance has become a significant cultural phenomenon among younger generations, though it has also faced criticism from some cultural and religious groups.

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Valentine's Week 2025: Know the history and significance of Valentine Week celebrations in India". The Indian Express. 2025-02-06. Retrieved 2026-02-15.
  2. ^ a b "Valentine's Week 2026 full list: From Chocolate Day and Teddy Day to Kiss Day, check complete calendar till February 14". Hindustan Times. 2026-02-08. Retrieved 2026-02-15.
  3. ^ "Valentine's Day News: Young Indians Splurge Millions on Love". Deccan Herald. Retrieved 2026-02-15.
  4. ^ "Valentine's Day now thrives in India as Gen Z reshapes cultural norms". Khaleej Times. Retrieved 2026-02-15.
  5. ^ "Young Indians spend millions buying gifts for 'Valentine's Week'". The Straits Times. 2024-02-14. ISSN 0585-3923. Retrieved 2026-02-15.
  6. ^ "India's Valentine sales rise as tier-3 shoppers drive D2C growth". The Economic Times. 2026-02-13. ISSN 0013-0389. Retrieved 2026-02-15.