Nepal Observing Martyrs’ Day with Various Programs

The nation is observing Martyr Day today with various programs organized nationwide to honor and remember those who sacrificed their lives for the country and its people. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the individuals who fought for liberty, freedoms, and democracy throughout Nepal’s history.

In remembrance of these martyrs, a week-long series of programs are being conducted from Magh 10 to 16 every year. Since 2012 BS, the Kathmandu municipality has been coordinating events to pay tribute to the martyrs, continuing this tradition to the present day.

One significant historical event marked on this day is the execution of Shukra Raj Shastri by the autocratic Rana regime at Pachali, Kathmandu on Magh 10, 1997. Similarly, Dharma Bhakta Mathema was executed at Siphal, Kathmandu on Magh 13, and Ganga Lal Shrestha and Dasharath Chanda at Shova Bhagawati, Kathmandu on Magh 15, all in the same year, in response to their demands for democracy, civic rights, and liberty.

To commemorate these sacrifices, a morning rally is being organized from Shanti Batika, Ratnapark to Lainchaur. The Kathmandu Metropolis has announced that the event will be attended by the Prime Minister, ministers, and high-level officials of the Nepal government, along with a march-past by security bodies. The martyrs, both known and unknown, will be honored at the Martyrs’ Monument in Lainchaur.

Despite the commemorative events, there is a prevailing public concern that the dreams of the martyrs have not been fully realized. The collective aspiration for democracy, civic rights, and liberty remains a work in progress, stirring reflection on the journey ahead.