New Delhi: World Coconut Day is an international event established by the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), an organisation of coconut-producing countries. It has been celebrated on September 2 each year since 2009. The day is important for recognising the value of coconuts. Farmers and stakeholders in India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Kenya, and Vietnam celebrate it. Activities promoting coconut consumption and raising awareness about the benefits of coconuts are organised on this day. Let us know why it is celebrated.
World Coconut Day 2024: Why is the day celebrated?
World Coconut Day is celebrated to recognise and promote the importance of coconuts in our lives. The day highlights its many benefits, including nutritional value, economic contributions, and environmental impact.
It raises awareness about coconuts’ adaptable uses, supports sustainable farming practices, and honours the farmers and communities involved in coconut production.
Cultural significance of coconut around the world
Coconuts were vital food for the people of Polynesia. When they travelled to new islands, they brought coconuts with them.
In the northern Philippines, the Ilocano people use coconut shells to make an offering to their deceased and ancestors. This offering, called niniyogan, includes cooked sweet rice and boiled eggs.
In Bali, Indonesia, people make offerings using flowers, rice, and incense in woven coconut leaves.
In Hindu tradition, the coconut is an important part of rituals. It is often decorated with bright metal foils and offered to Hindu gods and goddesses during worship. In India, fishermen offer coconuts to the sea to celebrate the start of a new fishing season. Hindus also break coconuts to seek the blessings of the gods and ensure the successful beginnings of new activities.
In Cambodia, flowers are used in wedding ceremonies.
In New Orleans, the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club throw hand-decorated coconuts to parade revellers as part of the Mardi Gras tradition.
Additionally, coconuts are used as targets and prizes in the traditional British fairground game Coconut Shy.
Maldivian folklore has a myth of origin about the Maldivians’ dependence on the coconut tree. According to an urban legend, falling coconuts cause more deaths than sharks annually.
World Coconut Day is observed annually on September 2 to commemorate the formation of the Asian Pacific Coconut Community (APCC). Let’s understand why the day is celebrated and what coconuts mean culturally. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
