Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives During the Second World War

Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives During the Second World War

The Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those who lost their Lives during the Second World War is a unified international commemoration, solemnly marking the atrocities of World War II. This day honours the memory of millions of people who lost their lives during this devastating conflict. It also serves to promote peace, reconciliation and to prevent similar calamities from occurring in the future. Endorsed by the United Nations, this remembrance is embraced globally, highlighting the importance of worldwide unity and remembrance.

The observance takes on an additional layer of significance in India. Over 2.5 million Indian soldiers participated in World War II, making India's contribution among the largest of the Commonwealth nations. The country's involvement was on both the Eastern and Western fronts, marking it deeply with many lives lost, injuries endured and sacrifices made. The observance of the Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation serves as a poignant reminder of India's own history and its extensive role in global affairs.

In India, this commemoration is primarily observed by veterans’ associations and educational institutions where assemblies, commemorative ceremonies, and readings are held to remember those who have fallen. Special lectures and exhibitions are also organized in several institutions to educate younger generations about the war's impact on India and its population. The significance of the day is amplified on the 8th and 9th of May, aligning with global observance, spotlighting India's unique historical narrative and honouring those lost.

Facts about this day

• World War II was one of the deadliest international conflicts in history. A total of 60 to 80 million people were killed. Civilians comprised about 50-55 million of these deaths while military troops comprised 21 to 25 million.
• Several countries chose to remain neutral during World War II. These included Estonia, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
• The observance aligns with Victory in Europe (VE) Day – celebrated on May 8 – which marks the end of World War II in Europe. It was on this day in 1945 when Nazi Germany officially surrendered to the Allied forces.
• Many stories of bravery and sacrifice have remained untold or forgotten. For instance, Naik Jadunath Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration, posthumously for his exceptional courage during the Jammu & Kashmir Operations in 1947. He lost his life while defending his post against an enemy attack during the early phase.
• Many Indian soldiers died fighting for the British Empire. India, under British colonial rule at the time, contributed over 2.5 million volunteer soldiers, the largest volunteer army in the world, many of whom unfortunately didn't return home.

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Top things to do in India for this observance

• Visit one of the many war memorials around the world. Some popular memorials include the National World War II memorial in Washington, DC or the Cenotaph in London, United Kingdom. Another popular memorial is the Mamayev Kurgan (The Motherland Calls) in Volgograd, Russia.
• Attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the India Gate War Memorial in New Delhi.
• Read The Great Partition: The Making of India and Pakistan by Yasmin Khan to learn about the impacts of World War II in India.