Valentine’s Week begins on February 7 with the celebration of Rose Day, setting the tone for a week dedicated to love and emotional expression. The week culminates on February 14 with Valentine’s Day and includes Propose Day, Chocolate Day, Teddy Day, Promise Day, Hug Day and Kiss Day in between.

On Rose Day, people exchange roses to express emotions that are often difficult to put into words. While red roses remain the most popular, many people now choose roses of different colours, each carrying its own meaning. Though Rose Day has no religious or cultural roots, it has evolved into a widely accepted modern celebration of relationships and emotions.

Why Is Rose Day Celebrated?

The tradition of gifting roses is believed to have originated in ancient Roman and Greek cultures. The rose was associated with Venus in Roman mythology and Aphrodite in Greek mythology—both goddesses of love. During the Victorian era, the practice of floriography emerged, in which flowers were used as a symbolic language to express emotions that could not be spoken openly.

In Indian history, roses are also linked to the Mughal period. Historical accounts suggest that Empress Noor Jahan, wife of Emperor Jahangir, had a deep fondness for red roses, and the emperor would send her baskets of roses as a gesture of love.

Over time, Rose Day became a symbolic way to express affection, admiration, friendship and emotional connection.

What Does Each Colour of Rose Mean?

Red Rose:
A universal symbol of love and romance. Red roses are most commonly exchanged between couples to express deep affection and passion.

White Rose:
Symbolises purity, respect and sincerity. White roses can be gifted to anyone as a mark of admiration and peaceful affection.

Orange Rose:
Represents attraction, enthusiasm and positive energy. It is often given to express admiration or encouragement and is also associated with strength and happiness.

Yellow Rose:
A symbol of friendship and joy. Yellow roses are ideal for close friends or to express goodwill and warmth without romantic intent.

Peach Rose:
Signifies modesty, honesty and gratitude. Often favoured by women, peach roses convey trust and sincerity in a relationship.

Blue Rose:
Associated with mystery, sensitivity and deep emotions. Blue roses are given to express feelings that are unique or difficult to define.

Pink Rose:
Represents grace, appreciation and sweetness. Pink roses are suitable for new relationships, crushes, or to express gratitude and admiration.

Black Rose:
Symbolises endings, farewells or significant change. Though uncommon, black roses are sometimes given to mark transitions or closure.

Choosing the Right Rose

Selecting the right rose colour helps convey emotions clearly and thoughtfully. Whether for love, friendship, respect or gratitude, Rose Day offers an opportunity to express feelings with subtlety and meaning—one flower at a time.