Father of the Nation remembered on Martyrs’ Day, Prez, PM and leaders pay homage

India on Thursday observed the 78th death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi , the Father of the Nation , with tributes pouring in from leaders across the political spectrum who remembered his ideals of truth, non-violence and service to humanity .

President Droupadi Murmu paid floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and attended a Sarva Dharma Prarthana in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered homage at the memorial and said Gandhi’s timeless ideals continue to guide the nation’s journey . In a message shared on social media, the Prime Minister said India reaffirms its commitment to Gandhiji’s principles and to building a country rooted in justice, harmony and service to humanity .

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi described Mahatma Gandhi not merely as a historical figure but as an enduring thought that cannot be erased . He said attempts by empires, hateful ideologies and arrogant powers to silence Gandhi had failed. Emphasising Gandhiji’s message, Rahul Gandhi noted that the Father of the Nation taught India that the power of truth is greater than the might of authority and that non-violence and courage are stronger than violence and fear . He added that Gandhi lives on in the soul of India and paid a humble tribute to Bapu on Martyrs’ Day.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also remembered Mahatma Gandhi by quoting his words on democracy, stating that true democracy can only exist when every person’s life is secure and free .

Union Home Minister Amit Shah offered his salutations to Mahatma Gandhi and recalled his role in uniting a nation divided by language, region and caste . He said Gandhiji gave the freedom movement its vast reach and wove together the ideals of Swadeshi, independence and cleanliness into a single vision for a strong and glorious India. Shah added that Gandhi’s thoughts will continue to inspire generations .

Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy paid tribute to Gandhi, calling him the great soul who introduced a new path of struggle through non-violence . He said Gandhiji’s role in winning freedom for the nation remains unmatched and offered his solemn respects on the occasion of the death anniversary of the Father of the Nation.

Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948 . The day is observed as Martyrs’ Day (Shaheed Diwas) to honour him and all freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

Across the country, prayer meetings and remembrance programmes were organised at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat , and in schools and institutions, reflecting Gandhi’s philosophy of Ahimsa and Satyagraha .