Across the UK today, families are marking Mother’s Day with flowers, cards and Sunday lunches. But unlike many countries around the world, Britain celebrates the occasion on a completely different date and the story behind it stretches back centuries.
In the UK, Mother’s Day is traditionally known as Mothering Sunday, a celebration rooted in Christian history. The day falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent, around three weeks before Easter, when people historically returned to their “mother church” the main church or cathedral in their area.
During the 16th and 17th centuries, many young people worked as domestic servants and were allowed the day off to visit home and attend church with their families. Over time, the tradition evolved into a day to honour mothers, with children bringing small gifts, flowers and the traditional Simnel cake.
This makes the British celebration quite different from the rest of the world. Countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and much of Europe celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May, a modern tradition that gained popularity in the early 20th century after American campaigner Anna Jarvis pushed for a national day to honour mothers.
Despite the different dates, the sentiment remains the same, a moment to recognise the women who shape our lives.
In recent years, a new kind of Mother’s Day appreciation has emerged through social media and television, where mother-child partnerships have captured the public’s imagination.
Among the most beloved are Bradford-born GP and TV doctor Dr Amir Khan and his mother, affectionately known to fans as Mama Khan. The pair have built a loyal following through their warm and often humorous online videos, sharing family moments and cooking together. Their natural chemistry has even led to television food programmes where viewers see the playful dynamic between a proud mum and her famous son.
Similarly, comedian and presenter Romesh Ranganathan has turned his relationship with his mother, Shanthi Ranganathan, into television gold. The duo have appeared together hosting quiz shows and comedy programmes, with Shanthi’s sharp wit and fearless honesty often stealing the spotlight.
In both cases, the sons often find themselves playfully outmatched by their mums, a dynamic audiences love. Their exchanges are filled with humour, humility and affection, reminding viewers that no matter how famous you become, you are still your mother’s child.
The popularity of these partnerships shows how the bond between mother and child resonates far beyond the home. With thousands of fans following their interactions online, both duos have become reminders that family love, laughter and respect remain universal.
Mother’s Day may fall on different dates around the world, but its message remains timeless. It is a moment to pause and recognise the quiet sacrifices, strength and unconditional love that mothers give every day.
Whether through a simple phone call, a shared meal or a heartfelt message, today is a reminder to celebrate the women who raised us, guided us and believed in us long before the rest of the world did.
To every mother, grandmother and mother figure — thank you. Happy Mother’s Day.
