ON JANUARY 30, India observes Shaheed Diwas, or Martyrs' Day to pay tribute to all the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to protect the country. The day also marks the death anniversary of the 'Father of the Nation', Mahatma Gandhi. On this day, people remember all those who sacrificed their lives for India's independence. It is pertinent to note that the country observed Martyrs' Day on numerous days. Two mainly observed Shaheed Diwas are January 30 and March 23 in India.
Shaheed Diwas 2023: History
On January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated at the age of 78 in the compound of Birla House in New Delhi by Nathuram Godse. He was one of the most influential leaders of the country and played a major role in the independence of India. Mahatma Gandhi was born on October 02, 1869, and went to South Africa for further studies and to practice law. He fought against numerous social evils that were present in society at the time such as inequality, racial discrimination, and many other.
Shaheed Diwas 2023: Significance
Mahatma Gandhi is known as the 'Father of the Nation' and led the major movements against British rule through a non-violence approach. Since, Mahatma Gandhi's assassination at point-blank range by Nathuram Godse, India observes his death anniversary as Shaheed Diwas, or Martyrs' Day. His philosophy was mainly based on three principles which included non-violence, the fight for truth (satyagraha), and political and individual freedom (Swaraj).
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Shaheed Diwas 2023: How India Celebrates Martyrs' Day?
Every year, on January 30, the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and the three Service Chiefs (Army, Air Force, And Navy) pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi's Samadhi at Raj Ghat in Delhi. A two-minute silence is also observed across the nation in honour of those brave hearts who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence.