Martyrs’ Day is being observed across the country today with various programs to honor those who sacrificed their lives for the nation and the people. The day is marked in remembrance of the martyrs who laid down their lives for democracy, freedom, and the greater public good.
In Nepal, Martyrs’ Day commemorates the sacrifices of the four national martyrs—Dharma Bhakta Mathema, Dasharath Chand, Gangalal Shrestha, and Shukraraj Shastri—along with other martyrs who gave their lives for the establishment of democracy. They were executed by the then Rana regime for raising their voices against autocratic rule.
Inspired by their sacrifices, the centuries-old hereditary Rana regime eventually came to an end, paving the way for the establishment of democracy in Nepal. Their contribution continues to serve as a source of inspiration in the country’s democratic journey.
Observed every year on Magh 16, Martyrs’ Day honors those who sacrificed their lives during different periods for democracy, its restoration, and national independence. To mark the occasion, Martyrs’ Week is observed from Magh 10 to Magh 16 with various programs nationwide.
The tradition of observing Martyrs’ Day began in 2012 BS under the coordination of the then Kathmandu Municipality. During the struggle for freedom in 1997 BS, the Rana rulers executed Shukraraj Shastri at Pachali, Teku on Magh 10, Dharma Bhakta Mathema at Sifal on Magh 13, and Gangalal Shrestha along with Dasharath Chand at Shobhabhagwati on Magh 15.
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