KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) organized a solemn event at the martyrs' monument in Lainchaur to commemorate Martyrs Day on Tuesday. The event drew high-level officials and political figures, including Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal.

Martyrs Day is observed across the country with various events to pay homage to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. The day holds great significance as it honors individuals who fought for liberty, freedom, and democracy in Nepal. The commemoration spans a week, from Magh 10 to 16 annually, dedicated to remembering these martyrs.

The tradition of organizing programs in honor of the martyrs dates back to 2012 BS, initiated by the Kathmandu municipality, and continues to this day. Notable figures who made substantial contributions to the cause of democracy and civic rights, such as Shukra Raj Shastri, Dharma Bhakta Mathema, Ganga Lal Shrestha, and Dasharath Chanda, were martyred during the struggle.

Shukra Raj Shastri was executed in Pachali, Kathmandu, on Magh 10, 1997, followed by Dharma Bhakta Mathema at Siphal, Kathmandu, on Magh 13. Ganga Lal Shrestha and Dasharath Chanda met their sacrifice at Shova Bhagawati, Kathmandu, on Magh 15 of the same year.

The Martyrs Day celebration serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by these individuals in the pursuit of democracy and national values. The event aims to instill a sense of gratitude and remembrance for the heroes who laid down their lives for the betterment of the nation.

Here are some pictures taken by Ratopati Photojournalist Krishna Khadka: