THE INTERNATIONAL Womens Day 2010 is not just a celebration of the political, social and economic realities of women and their achievements; it also marks the centennial commemoration of the day. It is believed that very first women's day was marked in 1909.

The International Womens Day is an occasion which marks the spirit of womenhood, without divisive barriers like ethnicity, nationality, cultral, economic or political barriers. While many countries have marked this day as a national holiday, others do their bit in honouring women on this special day.

The International Womens Day 2010 will be marked with several events focusing on the spirit of womenhood and the status of womens rights across the country. There will be many rallies, art exhibitions, debates, awards, seminars and conferences to mark the day.

The day will also be observed by First Lady Michelle Obama, who is holding a reception for women luminiaries from across the world. Joined by President Barack Obama in this endevour, Michelle Obama's reception profram will also include actor Kerry Washinfton, former Secretary of state Madalne Albright, Afghani singer Mozdah Jamalzadah and singer Katharine McPhee.

The United Nations, will marke this day by a 15 year review of the status of its Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995). It will mark the International Womens Day by picking up a new goal - Equal Rights, Equal Opportunities: Progress for All.

Meanwhile, each state will see various events happening on March 8, be it a call to share stories in Fredriksburg, Virgina or an art exhibition looking at women and water rights in University of Minnesota. Many have tied up International Womens Day festivities with the ongoing Womens History Month observations like at Lincoln City.