Martyrs' Day 2024: All you need to know about Shaheed Diwas

Mahatma Gandhi statue at Gandhi Ashram in Ahemdabad. Pic/iStock

Martyrs' Day, also known as ‘Shaheed Diwas', is celebrated every year on January 30 to mark the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Martyrs' Day, observed on January 30th in India, commemorates the sacrifices made by individuals who laid down their lives for the country's freedom and values. This significant day pays tribute to the brave souls who played pivotal roles in India's struggle for independence.

The date holds particular significance as it marks the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948. On this solemn occasion, ceremonies and events are organized across the nation to honor not only Gandhi but also countless other freedom fighters who fought relentlessly against colonial rule.

The day serves as a reminder of the immense sacrifices made by these heroes, emphasizing the ideals of non-violence and unity that were central to the independence movement.

Shaheed Diwas has a rich history, as it was on this day in 1948 that Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated in the compound of Birla House in New Delhi by Nathuram Godse. Gandhi, who was born on October 2, 1869, was one of the most influential leaders of India and played a significant role in the independence of the country.

Martyrs' Day 2024: The role of Mahatma Gandhi in India's Independence movement

Mahatma Gandhi played a prominent role in the freedom struggle through non-violent and peaceful methods. His ideas gained a lot of appreciation from the citizens as well as other freedom fighters who held him in high esteem.

He was popularly acclaimed as the Father of the Nation by his followers.

Clad in a Dhoti, made from Indian homespun cloth, Khadi, he walked across the length and breadth of the nation-leading non-violent protest marches to bring down the British Raj.

Thousands of people along with several leaders supported him and followed his footsteps. He led the non-violent tax revolt in Kheda, the non-cooperation movement in the early 1920s and the famous Dandi March in 1930.

Martyrs' Day 2024: The assassination of Mahatma Gandhi

Nathuram Vinayak Godse, an advocate of Hindu nationalism and also a member of the political party Hindu Mahasabha, murdered Gandhi on January 30, 1948, five months after India gained freedom.

While Mahatma Gandhi was walking up the steps to a raised platform behind the Birla House, where he conducted his multi-faith prayer meetings every evening, Godse came out of the crowd, faced him, looked him in the eye and fired three shots at point-blank range.

Gandhi was carried inside the Birla House and was declared dead by one of the representatives.

Martyrs' Day 2024: How is it celebrated?

Every year, the nation celebrates Martyr's Day. The President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and our Defence Minister gather at Rajghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.

Students in schools and colleges perform plays in the memories of the brave fighters. Patriotic songs are played to keep alive the spirit of courage, bravery and love for the nation.

Citizens often participate in prayer meetings, cultural programs, and flag hoisting ceremonies to express gratitude for the sacrifices that paved the way for India's sovereignty.