Beyond Romance: Redefining Valentine’s Day with gratitude and family bonds

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Valentine’s day need not be confined to candlelight dinners and romantic gestures. It can serve as a meaningful reminder to acknowledge every individual who adds strength, warmth and reassurance to our lives.

Beyond roses and social media posts, the day offers an opportunity to express gratitude to parents, friends and mentors who quietly anchor us through uncertainty and stress. In moments of loneliness or pressure, it is often family and close companions who stand as pillars of support. This year, many citizens in the city chose to celebrate Valentine’s Day in its most inclusive and heartfelt form.

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A gentle reflection.

“This day is a soft whisper of enduring emotion, moving beyond fading roses to celebrate courage and gratitude. It’s a gentle pause in our busy lives to honor those who truly matter. More than expensive gifts, it’s about meaningful words and small, genuine efforts that strengthen our deepest bonds whether with partners, cherished friends, or family. Love, simply spoken.”

– Anushree Jagtap, IT student.

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Gratitude for true bonds

“Valentine's Day is often framed as a day for romantic confessions, but it truly celebrates love in every form. For me, that person is my dad. It is a day of gratitude for those who stood by us during our hardest moments. Beyond romance, it is about honoring the deep, supportive bonds that define what genuine care really means.”

– Pratik Barwal, Civil Engineering student.

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My mother, my foundation

“My true Valentine is my mother, my constant strength and unwavering believer. Her sacrifices and encouragement fuel my journey toward becoming a Chartered Accountant while nurturing my creative spirit. Honoring her means celebrating the selfless love that shapes my future and teaches me to always believe in myself.”

– Samruddhi Mudgalkar, CA student.

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Love’s greatest blessing

“To me, Valentine’s Day belongs to my parents. Their love isn't found in gifts, but in constant care, sacrifices and silent strength. They stand by me through every mistake, providing the confidence and values that shape my life. Today, I celebrate the unconditional foundation of my dreams and the greatest blessing I will ever know love in its truest form.”

– Krishna Thakre, IHM student.