Martyrs' Day Being Observed Across the Country

Kathmandu, January 30: Martyrs' Day is being observed across the country today through various programs. This day is celebrated in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the benefit of the country and its people.

The day is observed to honor the four martyrs—Dharmabhakta Mathema, Dashrath Chand Thakur, Ganga Lal Shrestha, and Shukraraj Shastri—along with other martyrs who gave their lives for the establishment of democracy in Nepal.

The then-government had executed them for raising their voices against the Rana regime. The sacrifice of these martyrs and the inspiration derived from them led to the end of the family-ruled Rana regime and the establishment of democracy in Nepal.

Martyrs' Day, celebrated every year on Magh 16, is being marked with various programs in memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the establishment and restoration of democracy, as well as for freedom during different eras.

Martyr's Week has been declared from Magh 10 to 16, with various programs being organized throughout the period. Since 2012 BS, Martyrs' Day has been celebrated every year on Magh 16 under the coordination of the then Kathmandu Municipality.

While demanding freedom in 1997 BS, the Rana rulers executed Shukraraj Shastri at Pachali, Teku, on Magh 10; Dharmabhakta Mathema at Siphal on Magh 13; and Ganga Lal Shrestha and Dashrath Chand at Shobha Bhagawati on Magh 15.