World Smile Day

World Smile Day History

World Smile Day aims to spread happiness and encourage acts of kindness through the power of a simple smile. This observance focuses on promoting goodwill, cultivating positive feelings, and celebrating the universal language of smiling. It also highlights the importance of a healthy smile and encourages people to share it with others, which can foster a sense of community and togetherness.

The concept of World Smile Day was introduced by Harvey Ball, an American commercial artist, who created the iconic smiley face symbol back in 1963. The first World Smile Day was observed in 1999, and it has gained popularity worldwide ever since. With a vast and diverse cultural heritage, India has been an epitome of warmth and welcoming gestures, with smiling being integral to its traditions. World Smile Day aligns perfectly with Indian values, where maintaining harmonious bonds and extending kindness is emphasized in many aspects of life, be it personal or professional relationships.

In India, World Smile Day is celebrated through various events and activities, such as dental check-up campaigns, awareness programs highlighting the significance of oral hygiene, and engaging communities in fun-filled smile-oriented activities. Volunteering efforts, cheerful parades, and other acts of kindness are also encouraged to bring smiles to people's faces. World Smile Day is universally observed on the first Friday of October every year, making October 6, 2023, this year's World Smile Day. This occasion serves as a reminder for Indians to uphold the values of compassion, unity, and joy in their everyday lives and to share a smile with everyone they encounter.

World Smile Day facts

• A Duchenne smile is a full smile involving all the facial muscles. It is named after 19th century French neurologist Guillaume Duchenne.
• Even a forced smile can lead to a mood boost. The physical act of smiling releases dopamine in the brain, which gives feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
• Contrary to popular belief, smiling does not take more effort. It usually takes 12 muscles to smile and 11 muscles to frown. Some studies suggest that we may use as many as 43 muscles to frown.
• According to Indian beliefs, a sincere, genuine smile from the heart reflects your benevolent and kind nature.
• Bollywood is well-known for its star-studded, happy-ending movies where the actors are often seen smiling and dancing. This impacts societal norms and Indians are often seen mimicking this enthusiasm.

In the News and Trending in India for World Smile Day

Top things to do in India for World Smile Day

• Perform a kind act for family, a friend, or even a stranger.
• Surprise someone with a small gesture of kindness or appreciation. It could be sending someone a handwritten letter, giving gifts to colleagues or friends, or even treating someone to a meal.
• Engage in various acts of kindness, such as volunteering at a local charity, donating to those in need, or organizing a community service event.