Shaheed Diwas 2022: Here's why we celebrate Martyrs' Day on 23rd March

Shaheed Diwas is commemorated in India on March 23 as it was on this day in 1931 that the three freedom fighters, Sukhdev Thapar, Bhagat Singh, and Shivaram Rajguru were sent to the gallows in Lahore Jail by the Britishers. They will always be known for their bravery and the determination to see India as an Independent nation.

Shaheed Diwas is celebrated on a number of occasions in India. Apart from 23rd March, the day Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated, 30th January, is also commemorated as Martyr’s day.

At the present time, people from all walks of life pay their respects to the fallen heroes and take motivation from their struggle to uphold and safeguard the nation's honour.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his respect to the freedom fighters on Shaheed Diwas. "Salutations to the revolutionaries of independence, ''Amar Shaheed Veer'' Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru on Martyrdom Day," he wrote in Hindi.

The Prime Minister further added, "The sacrifice of these great sons of ''Maa Bharati'' will remain an inspiration for every generation of the country. Jai Hind."

History and Significance:

Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru participated in the freedom struggle and wanted to avenge the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. The three young revolutionaries were taken into police custody on numerious charges, which included the killing of British police officer John Saunders in 1928.

However, they did not want to kill John Saunders. Their target was Superintendent of Police James Scott, who had ordered his men to lathi-charge protesters leading to the death of Lala Lajpat Rai.

Also Read: Shaheed Diwas: PM Modi pays tributes to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru