March 23 Marks 2nd Martyrs Day: Tribute to Heroes of India’s Freedom Struggle
Today, Martyrs Day (Shaheed Diwas) is being observed nationwide, marking the second Shaheed Diwas of the year, honoring the sacrifices of Bhagat Singh, Shivram Rajguru, and Sukhdev Thapar. On this date in 1931, these young freedom fighters were executed. Martyrs’ Day is a tribute to these immortal heroes who laid down their lives for the nation’s freedom.
Every year on March 23, Martyrs’ Day is observed across the country to honor and remember the sacrifices made by these martyrs. During the two centuries of British rule in India, the country saw atrocities, fear, and trauma. In response, brave sons of Mother India joined the freedom movement to free their motherland from British domination.
Martyrs’ Day is observed twice a year. The first Martyrs’ Day falls on January 30, the day Nathuram Godse killed Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. The second Martyrs’ Day falls on March 23, the day Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were executed.
Bhagat Singh, together with his comrades Rajguru and Sukhdev, became national heroes and sources of inspiration for young people. On April 8, 1929, they raised the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad” and threw bombs at the Central Legislative Assembly. Despite fleeing the scene, they were ultimately caught and accused of murder. On March 23, 1931, they were sentenced to death.
Martyrs’ Day holds significant importance in honoring the sacrifices of freedom fighters and remembering their contributions to India’s independence struggle. It serves as a reminder of the martyrs’ bravery and the crucial role they played in achieving freedom. Various programs are held on this day to honor these brave souls.
