India is observing ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ today, August 14, to honor those who lost their lives and were displaced during the 1947 Partition. This annual observance was introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2021 to remind current and future generations of the deep wounds left by the Partition.
The day is dedicated to commemorating the sacrifices of those who suffered during this tragic period and to preserving their memories. The Union Ministry of Culture has directed various states to organize exhibitions showcasing 52 slides of photographs, curated by the Indian Council of Historical Research and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts. These exhibitions will be displayed at prominent locations like railway stations, post offices, shopping malls, and government offices to reach a wide audience.
The Ministry has emphasized the need for these events to be conducted with sensitivity, ensuring that no sentiments are hurt. The carefully curated exhibition avoids disturbing images, focusing instead on educating the public about the Partition’s background, the displacement stories, and the British role in dividing the country. The goal is to provide a solemn and respectful remembrance of the millions who suffered during the Partition.
Indian missions worldwide are also commemorating the day. For instance, the High Commission of India in Ottawa, Canada, is hosting a photo exhibition on ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day,’ which will be open to the public from August 14 to 23, 2024. Similar exhibitions are being held by the Consulate General of India in Sydney and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Australia, as well as by the High Commission of India in London, where an event is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. at India House.
As India prepares to celebrate its 75th Independence Day, the trauma of the Partition—one of the largest migrations in human history, affecting around 20 million people—remains deeply embedded in the nation’s collective memory. ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ serves as a solemn reminder of the pain endured and the resilience shown by those who lived through one of the most turbulent times in India’s history.
