In India, the 30th of January, 2023, will be remembered as Martyrs’ Day, or Shaheed Diwas. This poignant day is dedicated to the many freedom fighters who gave their lives for the country they loved. It also marks a particularly notable death anniversary – that of the nation’s ‘Bapu’, Mahatma Gandhi. Let’s dive deeper into the significance, celebrations, and other iterations of Martyrs’ Day or Sarvodaya Day in India.
Understanding Shaheed Diwas: Remembering Mahatma Gandhi
Born on October 2, 1869, Mahatma Gandhi holds an unassailable place in the history of India’s struggle for freedom. He is celebrated for his significant contribution to India’s independence, guiding the country along a path of non-violent resistance. The Martyrs’ Day or Shaheed Diwas observed on January 30 coincides with the unfortunate day in 1948 when Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse at Birla House in New Delhi.
Celebrations of Martyrs’ Day
Martyrs’ Day is commemorated in India with solemn respect. A tribute is paid at Mahatma Gandhi’s Samadhi at Raj Ghat in Delhi, attended by dignitaries including the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and the three Service Chiefs from the Army, Air Force, and Navy. They pay their respects to the ‘Father of the Nation’, reflecting the national importance of this day.
The Significance of Shaheed Diwas
The significance of Shaheed Diwas extends beyond a mere date on the calendar. It represents Mahatma Gandhi’s influential philosophy of non-violence (ahimsa), the pursuit of truth (satyagraha), and political and personal freedom (Swaraj). It is a day to remember the sacrifices of those who believed in and fought for these principles, inspiring millions with their courage and conviction.
Other Observances of Martyrs’ Days in India
In addition to January 30th, several other dates are memorialized as Martyrs’ Days in different regions of India to honor local heroes and significant events. March 23rd marks the execution of freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar by the British in Lahore Jail.
On May 19th, Assam remembers those killed by the state police in 1961, observing this day as Bhasha Shaheed Diwas or Language Martyrs’ Day. Jammu and Kashmir commemorate July 13th as Kashmir Martyr’s Day, honoring the citizens killed during protests against Maharaja Hari Singh’s rule.
Odisha pays tribute to freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai on his death anniversary, observed on November 17th. The people of Jhansi celebrate Martyrs’ Day on November 19th, the birth anniversary of Rani Lakshmibai, recognizing those who died in the Revolt of 1857.
Finally, the Sikh community respects the sacrifice of their ninth Guru, Tegh Bahadur, on November 24th. This Martyrs’ Day honors Guru Tegh Bahadur, who resisted the forced conversions of non-Muslims and was publicly executed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1675.
Despite the different dates and individuals remembered, each Martyrs’ Day shares a common undercurrent – the celebration of courage, selflessness, and dedication to the cause of freedom.