Nation Remembers Mahatma Gandhi on 78th Martyr's Day with Solemn Tributes
On Friday, January 30, India commemorated the 78th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the revered Father of the Nation, with heartfelt tributes from top leaders across the political spectrum. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a pivotal figure in India's freedom struggle, was assassinated by Nathuram Godse on this day in 1948 while heading to his daily prayers. This solemn occasion is observed nationwide as Martyr's Day, honoring all those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
Official Ceremonies and All-Religious Prayers
The Centre organized an all-religious prayer session, known as Sarva-Dharma-Prarthana, and a Martyr's Day Ceremony at Rajghat in New Delhi. The event was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Manohar Lal, who chairs the Rajghat Samadhi Committee. This gathering underscored the unity and reverence that Gandhi's legacy continues to inspire among Indians of all faiths.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Tribute to Gandhi's Ideals
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, highlighting the enduring relevance of his principles. In a post on X, PM Modi stated, "My tribute to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on his death anniversary. His personality and deeds will forever continue to inspire the people of the country to walk the path of duty." He emphasized Gandhi's call for 'swadeshi' as a fundamental pillar for building a developed and self-reliant India.
In another message, the Prime Minister praised Gandhi's doctrine of non-violence, quoting a Sanskrit verse: "Ahimsa param dharmast-thahimsa parantpah, ahimsa paramam satyam yato dharmah pravartate" (Nonviolence is the ultimate duty, nonviolence is the ultimate austerity. Nonviolence is the ultimate truth, and it advances the cause of righteousness). He noted that this principle holds the power to transform the world without resorting to weapons.
President Droupadi Murmu and Union Ministers Honor Gandhi
President Droupadi Murmu offered floral tributes at Rajghat, joining the nation in remembering Gandhi's contributions. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also expressed his reverence on X, writing, "Millions of salutations to Mahatma Gandhi Ji on his death anniversary." He reflected on how Gandhi united a nation fragmented by language, region, and caste, weaving together swadeshi, independence, and cleanliness into a cohesive vision for India.
Senior Minister JP Nadda added his voice, describing Gandhi as "the worshipper of humanity, the embodiment of sacrifice and penance, the pioneer of Swadeshi and self-reliance." He emphasized that Gandhi's ideals of truth, non-violence, peace, and goodwill continue to guide the country toward a self-reliant and developed future.
Chief Ministers Across States Pay Homage
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urged citizens to imbibe Gandhi's ideals to build a prosperous, just, and developed India. He highlighted Gandhi's steadfast commitment to truth and non-violence as beacons for humanity. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma noted that Gandhi's life and principles are steering the nation's quest for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India). He shared that Assam has implemented measures in rural areas, inspired by Gandhi's concepts of gram swaraj (village self-governance) and non-violence.
Opposition Leaders Reflect on Gandhi's Legacy
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge recalled Gandhi's values, posting a verse on X that speaks to empathy and humility. He asserted that the antidote to the hatred that led to Gandhi's assassination lies in following his path of truth, non-violence, and compassion. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described Mahatma Gandhi as "not a man, but a thought"—an ideology that remains immortal in India's soul, emphasizing the power of truth over might.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav called for actively reviving Gandhian ideals to counter divisive and violent forces in society. He praised Gandhi's ideology, woven with humanity, tolerance, and harmony, as a shield against negative threats. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee remembered Gandhi's vision of a united, inclusive India, stating that it forms the very soul of the country's democracy and continues to strengthen its democratic ethos.
Gandhi's Enduring Impact on Modern India
The tributes from leaders across party lines underscore Mahatma Gandhi's lasting influence on India's political and social fabric. His principles of non-violence, swadeshi, and truth resonate deeply in contemporary efforts toward national development and unity. As the nation observed Martyr's Day, the collective homage served as a reminder of Gandhi's role in shaping India's identity and his ongoing inspiration for future generations.
