Martyrs' Day in Myanmar

Martyrs' Day, known in Myanmar as အာဇာနည်နေ့ (Arzarni Day), is a significant commemoration held annually on July 19th. It marks the assassination of several independence leaders in 1947, most notably General Aung San, the father of modern-day Myanmar and national hero, who was instrumental in the country's struggle for independence from British colonial rule.

History

The tragic event occurred during a cabinet meeting at the Secretariat Building in Yangon when a group of armed men stormed the venue and assassinated Aung San and six of his cabinet ministers, along with a secretary and a bodyguard. This act of violence took place just months before Myanmar (then Burma) gained its independence from Britain in January 1948.

Traditions

On Martyrs' Day, ceremonies are centered around paying respects to Aung San and his fallen colleagues. The main commemoration takes place at the Martyrs' Mausoleum in Yangon where they are buried. Dignitaries, including government officials and family members of the deceased, lay wreaths and pay their respects at the mausoleum.

The day is marked by:

• Flag Half-Masting: The national flag is flown at half-mast throughout the country as a sign of respect and mourning.
• Silent Tribute: At 10:37 AM, the exact time of the assassinations, people across Myanmar observe a moment of silence.
• Speeches & Broadcasts: Government leaders typically give speeches that are broadcasted nationwide, reflecting on the legacy of Aung San and his colleagues.
• Public Closures: Many businesses close for the day, and there is often a halt to regular television programming to broadcast related documentaries or films.

What People Do

People throughout Myanmar participate by:

• Visiting the Martyrs' Mausoleum or other memorial sites.
• Attending various ceremonies held in schools and public spaces.
• Paying homage to Aung San by hanging portraits or flowers in homes or public places.
• Engaging with educational programs about Myanmar's struggle for independence.

Martyrs' Day remains one of deep significance for many people in Myanmar as it honors those who fought for national sovereignty and serves as an occasion for reflecting on their country's history.