Shaheed Diwas 2022: History, Significance & Important Facts About Martyrs’ Day

Martyrs' Day is an annual commemoration of soldiers who died in the line of duty while preserving their country's sovereignty. The exact day may differ from one country to the next. 

In India, Martyr's Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas, is commemorated mainly on two occasions. The day on which three courageous independence fighters, Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar, were hung by the British is commemorated on March 23rd. In addition, Mahatma Gandhi's birthday, 30 January, is commemorated as Martyr's Day or Shaheed Diwas. Let's take a closer look at it. 

Martyr’s Day on 30^th January  

Every year on January 30, India commemorates Martyrs' Day, also known as Shaheed Diwas. Mahatma Gandhi was shot and killed by Nathuram Godse during his evening prayers in the Birla House on January 30, 1948. As a result, the country commemorates Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary on January 30th as Martyr's Day.  

The President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and the three Service Chiefs (Army, Air Force, and Navy) lay multi-colored floral wreaths at his Samadhi at Raj Ghat in Delhi on this day. A two-minute silence is held across the country at 11 a.m. in honor of Indian martyrs. 

Martyr’s Day on 23^rd March: 

The 23rd of March is observed as Martyrs' Day to commemorate the sacrifice of three heroic Indian independence warriors. The British hung three heroes of our country, Bhagat Singh, Shivaram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar, on March 23rd.  

Reason of Death of Bhagat Singh and his companions: 

On April 8, 1929, Bhagat Singh and his companions threw explosives over the Central Legislative Assembly while shouting the slogan "Inquillab Zindabad." And for this, a murder case was charged against them. They were executed at the Lahore Jail on March 23, 1931. Their ashes were scattered along the Sutlej River's banks. 

They sacrificed their lives for the welfare of our nation although they have chosen a different path from Mahatma Gandhi. They are a source of inspiration for India's young. They came forward at such a young age and battled valiantly for freedom. As a result, Martyr's Day is observed on March 23rd to honor these three revolutionaries. 

Although we should always remember our all heroes and their priceless sacrifices for the country but we mainly commemorate them on these two days.