Bhubaneswar: 

The struggle for independence of India was not just a political movement. Rather, it was a lasting story of courage and sacrifice by countless revolutionaries. Among these brave heroes were the three martyrs—Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru.  For the sake of our country’s freedom, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru sacrificed their lives with a smile. To commemorate their great sacrifice and heroism, Shaheed Diwas (Martyrs' Day) is celebrated on 23rd March every year in India.

During the freedom movement, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were hanged to death by the British government, on 23rd March 1931. However, their sacrifice served to fuel the flames of the freedom struggle with even greater intensity. In honor of these three brave heroes of India, Shaheed Diwas is observed every year.

The Simon Commission came to India, In 1928, with no Indian members. This led to protests across the country. Lala Lajpat Rai led one such protest. However, the police resorted to baton charge (lathi-charge), under the orders of British officer James A. Scott, injuring Lala Lajpat Rai fiercely.

Lala Lajpat Rai succumbed to a heart attack, two weeks later, on 17th November 1928. Doctors attributed his death to the injuries sustained during the baton charge earlier.

Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru decided to target James A. Scott on account a revenge Lala Lajpat Rai’s death. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru were convicted and hanged on 23rd March 1931 in Lahore jail.

The martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru ignited the flame of the freedom movement throughout the country. Since then, 23rd March is observed as Shaheed Diwas to honor their sacrifice. We are reminded of the innumerous scarifies made to gain independence.

Their legacy continues to recollect us of the value of India’s freedom struggle.