The day is also observed to remember the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in the struggle for India's independence and to pay our respects to them.
Indians all over the country are going to observe Martyrs' Day today (January 30). January 30 is the death anniversary of one of the founding fathers of the Indian republic, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi (remembered as Mahatma Gandhi and Bapu). This day is also observed to remember the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in the struggle for India's independence and to pay our respects to them.
Here's all you need to know about Martyrs' Day 2021 and why we observe it:
1. Martyrs' Day marks Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary
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Martyrs' Day is observed to remember Gandhi on his death anniversary. Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on this day in 1948 by Nathuram Godse at the Birla House in Delhi. (File image)
2. Remember Bapu on Martyrs' Day
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Martyrs' Day is observed by people across the country to mourn the death of Gandhi, who was known for his non-violence and the long struggle for India's independence. (Image: IANS)
3. Martyrs' Day observed by government dignitaries
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On the Martyrs' Day, various government dignitaries including the President, the Vice-President, and the Prime Minister visit Gandhi's samadhi at the Rajghat and lay wreaths to remember him. (File image)
4. Direction to states and union territories to observe Martyrs' Day
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The central government has directed all the states and the union territories to observe two minutes silence at 11 am for the Martyrs' Day today and pay respect to all the freedom fighters. (File image)
5. Martyrs' Day to be observed solemnly
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A Home Ministry directive requested the states and the union territories to ensure that people observe the Martyrs' Day "with due solemnity". (File image)
6. People's initiatives on Martyrs' Day
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People and societies take their own initiatives to observe the Martyrs' Day, which may include forming a human chain, observing day-long fasts, and lighting candles. (File image)
