KUWAIT: Mother’s Day, originally intended as a heartfelt occasion to express gratitude for the invaluable roles mothers play, has increasingly succumbed to commercialization over the years, diminishing its inherent value and significance. What was once a day dedicated to honoring the selfless love and sacrifices of mothers has now become overshadowed by consumerism, with the emphasis shifting towards materialistic gestures rather than genuine expressions of appreciation.

Anna Jarvis, the founder of the “Mother’s Day” official holiday in the United States, achieved a significant milestone by successfully lobbying for the recognition of Mother’s Day as an official holiday. Motivated by a desire to honor women and motherhood in a society she perceived as biased towards male achievements, Jarvis passionately advocated for the establishment of this special day. However, despite her initial intentions, she was dismayed by the commercialization of Mother’s Day, which she vehemently opposed throughout her life.

Jarvis actively campaigned against the exchange of gifts on the day and even went as far as suing companies profiting from the holiday. Disheartened by the holiday’s transformation into a commercial extravaganza, she eventually called for its removal from the American calendar. Amidst the commercial noise, many people feel obligated to buy an expensive gift, not to appreciate their mother’s role in their lives, but to follow up with the trends and show off in society. “Simple, everyday items have taken on a new, inflated cost in the lead-up to Mother’s Day, such as cakes. Usually priced between KD 10-15, they now cost KD 35-50 just because of Mother’s Day decorations,” Tala Al-Matar said.

She added that as prices soar in the name of honoring mothers, it underscores the paradoxical nature of a holiday intended to celebrate love and appreciation, but is often overshadowed by commercial interests, noting that even mothers are now expecting to receive expensive gifts to show off among their friends and neighbors.

According to the Central Statistical Bureau, in February 2024, prices of many items witnessed a great increase. Notably, prices of clothing and footwear increased by 6.56 percent, while prices of miscellaneous goods and services increased by 3.92 percent. Ali Bilal told Kuwait Times that the prices of perfumes and makeup have risen. “According to my wife, there was a noticeable change in prices of makeup products because of Mother’s Day. That is why I prefer to give the mother of my children cash to spend wisely and buy her desired products at their original price instead of being taken advantage of by merchants,” he said.

Dalal Shehab highlighted the enduring appeal of gold as a timeless gift, but noted with concern the recent surge in prices. She pointed out the rate of gold has escalated significantly. For instance, the price of a 22-karat gold coin, which earlier stood at KD 133, jumped to KD 145. “Although I already bought it for my mother, this notable increase underscores the current volatility in the gold market, presenting challenges for those seeking to find a good gift,” she lamented.