Labour Day was first celebrated in India on May 1, 1923 in Chennai. Celebrations were organised by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan – created by Malayapuram Singaravelu Chettiar one of the founders of the Communist Party of India. The red flag – now a symbol of the left movement - was used for the first time during this event, held on the beach opposite Madras High Court and on the Triplicane beach. A resolution was also passed stating that the government should declare May Day as a holiday.
Excerpts from The Hindu report of the event, 2 May 1923:
“The Labour Kisan party has introduced May Day celebrations in Madras. Comrade Singaravelar presided over the meeting. A resolution was passed stating that the government should declare May Day as a holiday. The president of the party explained the non-violent principles of the party. There was a request for financial aid. It was emphasized that workers of the world must unite to achieve independence.”
