President Murmu Attends Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha on Martyrs’ Day
New Delhi, January 30, 2025 — President Droupadi Murmu today attended the Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha (Interfaith Prayer Meeting) at Samadhi Sthal, the memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat, marking the solemn occasion of Martyrs’ Day. The event, held on the 77th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, was an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for India’s freedom and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to peace, unity, and nonviolence.
The ceremony, which is held annually on January 30, was attended by high-ranking officials, diplomats, religious leaders, and citizens from all walks of life. The occasion, also known as Shaheed Diwas, commemorates the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in 1948 and pays homage to the countless martyrs who fought for India’s independence.
In her address, President Murmu paid tribute to the “martyrs who gave their lives for the freedom of India,” underscoring that their sacrifices were the bedrock of the nation’s independence. She remarked, “On this day, we remember not only the great sacrifice of our leaders but also the ideals of peace, non-violence, and tolerance that Mahatma Gandhi championed. We stand united today, as a diverse and pluralistic society, committed to his principles.”
The President, who has consistently advocated for unity in diversity, emphasized the importance of understanding and respecting all faiths, as symbolized by the Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha. The prayer meeting featured hymns and prayers from different religious traditions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism, representing India’s vibrant and diverse religious landscape.
Messages of Peace and Tolerance
Religious leaders who participated in the prayer meeting emphasized the shared values of humanity that unite all faiths, especially the pursuit of peace and nonviolence. “Today, as we remember the father of the nation, we also renew our commitment to building a harmonious and just society. Let us strive to promote brotherhood and respect for all, irrespective of faith or background,” said Swami Vivekanand Saraswati, a prominent spiritual leader.
In addition to the interfaith prayers, a two-minute silence was observed at 11:00 AM, marking the exact moment of Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination. During this period, the gathering stood in solemn tribute to the memory of the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
The ceremony was not only a reflection of the nation’s rich cultural heritage but also an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing challenges of maintaining peace and unity in an increasingly polarized world. The leaders present called for a collective effort to promote tolerance and understanding, echoing Gandhi’s message that “an eye for an eye makes the whole world blind.”
Government’s Commitment to Martyrs’ Legacy
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, who was also present at the ceremony, emphasized the continued relevance of the principles of selfless service and nonviolence in India’s modern-day challenges. “The sacrifices of our martyrs should inspire us to work toward a society based on justice, equality, and brotherhood,” he said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a tweet on Martyrs’ Day, also reiterated the importance of keeping the spirit of freedom and sacrifice alive in the hearts of every citizen. “On this solemn day, we remember all those who fought for our freedom and laid down their lives for the country. We remain steadfast in our resolve to build a progressive, inclusive, and peaceful India,” his tweet read.
The Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha and Martyrs’ Day observances, which culminate in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Samadhi Sthal, provide a moment for the country to reflect on its past, honor the sacrifices of its heroes, and commit to building a peaceful and united future. With messages of hope and harmony resonating throughout the day, the observances reminded citizens of the power of nonviolence and unity in overcoming division.
The ceremony ended with a prayer for the well-being of all people across the globe, highlighting the enduring legacy of Mahatma Gandhi’s vision for a world where peace prevails over conflict.
Conclusion
President Droupadi Murmu’s participation in the Sarva Dharma Prarthana Sabha not only honored the memory of India’s martyrs but also underscored the ongoing relevance of interfaith dialogue, peace, and unity in today’s society. As India continues its journey towards progress and inclusivity, the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi remain as relevant as ever in shaping the nation’s future.
