In India, Martyrs’ Day or Shaheed Diwas is observed year, mainly on 2 dates. On this day, we pay homage to the freedom fighters who have sacrificed their lives for their Motherland.
On 30th January, Martyrs’ Day or Shaheed Diwas is celebrated in the memory of Mahatma Gandhi and on 23rd March also, Martyrs’ Day is celebrated to pay tribute to three extraordinary revolutionaries of India, who were hanged to death by the British, namely – Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru and Sukhdev Thapar.
Significance of Martyrs’ Day
Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru’s sacrifices are remembered on Shaheed Diwas. All the three revolutionaries were arrested on murder charges which gained national momentum. They were sentenced to death in the Lahore conspiracy case and were hanged to death on March 23, 1931, at 7.30 pm in the Lahore jail. Their bodies were cremated on the banks of the Sutlej River. Bhagat Singh who attained martyrdom at an age of 23 became an inspiration for generations to come. He became the face of nationalism and hero figure in the eyes of Indians.
The Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated at Gandhi Smriti in the Birla House by Nathuram Godse on this day in the year 1948, one year ahead of India’s independence. To pay a tribute to “Bapu”, who urged citizens to follow the path of “Ahimsa” (Non-Violence), Martyrs’ Day is observed every year on 30th January.
How is Shaheed Diwas celebrated?
The national celebration of the Martyrs’ Day happens on January 30. During this day, the president, prime minister, vice president, defense minister, and the three service chiefs gather at the Samadhi at Raj Ghat. They conduct a memorial and wreath laying ceremony. Bugles are blown by the armed forces to sound the Last Post. As a sign of respect, the inter-services contingent reverse arms. At 11 am, a two-minute silence is observed to pay respect to all Indian martyrs. The Annual observance of Martyrdom of great Indian fighters is dedicated to their brave efforts.
