Omatee Ann Marie Hansraj
Moderator 
Omatee Ann Marie Hansraj
WORLD POETRY DAY: CELEBRATING THE POWER OF VERSE
Every year on March 21st, the world comes together to celebrate World Poetry Day, a day dedicated to the power of poetic expression. Established by UNESCO in 1999, this day recognizes poetry as a form of cultural and linguistic heritage, emphasizing its ability to inspire, educate, and unite people across borders.
WHY POETRY MATTERS
Poetry has been a fundamental part of human civilization for centuries. From the ancient epics of Homer and Virgil to the revolutionary works of Shakespeare, Rumi, Tagore, Neruda, and Maya Angelou, poetry has shaped societies, challenged norms, and given voice to the deepest human emotions. Whether through love sonnets, political verses, or spiritual reflections, poetry captures the essence of human experience.
In today’s fast-paced world, poetry remains a powerful medium for self-expression and social change. Spoken word poetry, slam poetry, and digital poetry have gained popularity, bringing poetry to new audiences and making it more accessible than ever before.
How World Poetry Day is Celebrated
World Poetry Day is marked by events and activities that honor poets and their work, such as:
Poetry Readings and Open Mic Nights – Writers and poetry enthusiasts gather in libraries, cafés, and online platforms to share their verses.
Workshops and Writing Competitions – Schools and literary organizations organize activities to encourage new and young poets.
Tributes to Legendary Poets – Many cultural institutions pay homage to influential poets whose words have shaped literature.
Social Media Campaigns – Hashtags like #WorldPoetryDay trend on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where users share their favorite poems.
The Role of Poetry in Modern Society
Poetry is more than just an art form; it is a tool for healing, resistance, and hope. In times of crisis, poetry provides solace, giving people a means to articulate grief, anger, love, and joy. Movements for social justice, climate action, and mental health awareness have used poetry to spread messages of resilience and change.
Additionally, poetry’s influence extends into music, theater, and film, showing its ability to transcend traditional boundaries. With the rise of AI and digital storytelling, new forms of poetry—such as visual and interactive poetry—are emerging, proving that poetry continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in tradition.
CONCLUSION
World Poetry Day is a reminder of the universal language of poetry—a language that speaks to the soul, bridges cultures, and preserves the beauty of human expression. Whether you are a poet, a reader, or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of words, take a moment to celebrate poetry today. Write a verse, read a poem, or share a favorite line. After all, as Pablo Neruda once said, "Poetry is an act of peace."
Happy World Poetry Day!
