Martyrs’ Day 2021: Occasion marks death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi; Modi, Ram Nath Kovind pay tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to write that Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals 'continue to motivate millions' even today
Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary is observed as Martyrs' Day. Getty images
Every year, Shaheed Diwas or Martyrs’ Day is observed on 30 January in India. This day marks the death anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, or Mahatma Gandhi.
It was on this day that Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. Shaheed Diwas is also observed as a day to pay tribute to all the freedom fighters who had sacrificed their lives in order to gain India's independence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter to write that Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals “continue to motivate millions” even today.
Tributes to the great Bapu on his Punya Tithi. His ideals continue to motivate millions.
On Martyrs’ Day we recall the heroic sacrifices of all those great women and men who devoted themselves towards India’s freedom and the well-being of every Indian.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 30, 2021
President Ram Nath Kovind too paid his tributes to the Father of the Nation via Twitter.
On behalf of a grateful nation, my humble tributes to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi who embraced martyrdom this day. We should adhere to his ideals of peace, non-violence, simplicity, purity of means and humility. Let us resolve to follow his path of truth and love.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 30, 2021
Mahatma Gandhi was one of the key figures of India’s independence movement, having propounded for the ideals of ahimsa or non-violence.
When he was shot at Birla House compound in New Delhi at the age of 78 on 30 January, 1948, the whole country was shaken to its core.
The newly independent country had lost its greatest leader and most popular icon just months after becoming free from colonialism.
Hence, an annual observance began to be celebrated to show our respects to all freedom fighters.
Martyrs’ Day Celebration
On this day, the state heads such as the Prime Minister, President, Vice President, and other service chiefs visit Rajghat and pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi. Armed forces personnel also pay respect to Indian soldiers who died in their bid to protect the country.
This year, all central and state government departments have been instructed to observe two minutes of silence on this day.
also read
Did Nitish Kumar split with the BJP over his vice-presidential ambitions?
BJP's Sushil Kumar Modi alleged that Nitish Kumar's break-up with the BJP was because he nursed vice-presidential ambitions. This claim comes at a time when many believe that the JD(U) leader's move propels him into the prime ministerial race against Narendra Modi in 2024
PM Modi hails power of tricolour, says it turned protective shield not only for Indians but also for other nationals
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also interacted with all medal winners of the Commonwealth 2022 games at his official residence on Saturday
Explained: Why the Tricolour is hoisted on Independence Day but unfurled on Republic Day
The national flag flies high on Independence Day as well as Republic Day. However, there are key differences between the two — the prime minister 'hoists' the Tiranga, whereas the President 'unfurls' it