Martyrs' Day 1986

Martyrs' Day on 30 January is primarily associated with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who was assassinated in New Delhi on 30 January 1948.

Martyrs' Day, or Shaheed Diwas, on 30 January marks the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in New Delhi in 1948. In the months after Partition, Gandhi worked to reduce communal violence and encouraged people of different faiths to live without fear or retaliation. On the evening of 30 January he was shot while going to a prayer meeting at Birla House. His death shocked India, only months after independence, and drew attention to the destructive consequences of hatred and religious intolerance.

The day is observed nationally in memory of Gandhi and of others who gave their lives in the struggle for freedom. Official commemorations commonly include floral tributes at Raj Ghat and a two-minute silence at 11 a.m. The observance is distinct from 23 March, another Shaheed Diwas associated with the execution of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev in 1931.

Remembering martyrs calls for historical accuracy and respect, not invented final words or unverified anecdotes. Gandhi's efforts toward non-violence and intercommunal trust remain central to the meaning of the day. Its Gregorian date is fixed at 30 January each year.

Martyrs' Day helps remember an important person, institution, event or public value in India.

Observe remembrance, floral tributes and two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. where locally organized.

Observed across India on 30 January; distinct from the 23 March martyrs' remembrance.