Every year on December 23, India pauses to salute the people who feed the nation. Kisan Diwas — also called Farmers’ Day — is a quiet but powerful reminder that behind every meal and festival, there are farmers who work from dawn to dusk, rain or shine. The day is about respect, gratitude and a nudge to remember the challenges they face.
Why December 23? The man behind Kisan Diwas
Kisan Diwas marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, born on December 23, 1902. A leader from rural India, he served briefly as Prime Minister in 1979–80 and is remembered for championing the rights of farmers and peasants. The day honours his legacy and the countless farmers who till the land across the country.
How the nation observes Farmers’ Day
- Government events and awards recognise farmers for innovation, sustainability and high yields.
- Krishi fairs, exhibitions and local agricultural programs showcase new technologies and schemes.
- Communities organise field visits, cultural programs and small ceremonies to highlight rural life.
- Many people, including public figures and artists, use social media to share tributes and stories from villages.
Bollywood’s bond with the fields
Bollywood has long been fascinated by rural stories. From tragic dramas to spirited underdog tales, several films have put the farmer at the centre of the story, helping city audiences connect with rural realities. On Kisan Diwas, the industry often remembers those films and the real-life communities that inspired them.
Films that brought farmers’ lives to the big screen
- Do Bigha Zamin — A classic that captures the struggle of small farmers against debt and displacement.
- Mother India — An epic portrait of resilience, showcasing rural hardship and maternal strength.
- Lagaan — A popular entertainer where villagers fight colonial oppression through a cricket match, highlighting unity and rural pride.
- Peepli Live — A dark comedy-drama that throws light on media, politics and the farmer crisis in modern India.
Challenges on the farm
Despite their importance, Indian farmers face real and urgent problems:
- Climate change and unpredictable weather patterns that hurt crops.
- Fragmented landholdings and rising input costs.
- Market access, fair prices and post-harvest losses.
- Water scarcity and the need for better irrigation and sustainable practices.
Events on Kisan Diwas often highlight these issues and push for solutions — from policy changes to grassroots innovation.
How you can honour farmers on Kisan Diwas
- Buy local: Choose produce from farmers’ markets and small vendors.
- Spread the word: Share stories and photos that celebrate farming life.
- Support initiatives: Donate or volunteer with organisations working on rural development.
- Reduce waste: Waste less food and encourage mindful consumption.
- Learn and listen: Visit a farm, hear farmers’ stories and understand their needs.
A simple thank you
On Kisan Diwas, we get a chance to stop the noise for a moment and think about the hands that bring food to our plates. Whether through a film that moved you, a market choice you make, or a message of thanks you share, small actions matter. The farmers shape not just the economy, but our festivals, our meals and many of the stories Bollywood loves to tell. A heartfelt thank you goes a long way.