One app for all your study abroad needs
Every year on 11 January, India observes the Death Anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, remembering a leader whose life was defined by simplicity, honesty, and quiet strength. In 2026, this day once again invites us to reflect on the remarkable journey of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, who guided the nation through difficult times with courage and moral clarity. From leading the country during the 1965 Indo-Pak war to giving the timeless slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” Shastri ji earned deep respect for putting the nation above himself. His sudden and unexplained death in Tashkent, shortly after signing a historic peace agreement, continues to raise questions and remains a subject of public discussion even today. This anniversary is not only a moment of remembrance but also a reminder of the values he stood for.
In this blog, we provide a thoughtful look at his life, the mystery surrounding his death, and powerful quotes that still inspire millions.
Contents
For How Long was Lal Bahadur Shastri the Prime Minister of India?
Lal Bahadur Shastri served as the Prime Minister of India for about 1 year and 7 months, from 9 June 1964 until his death on 11 January 1966. During this short but impactful tenure, he led the country through major challenges, including the 1965 Indo-Pak war, and is remembered for his honest leadership and the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.”
- He became Prime Minister on 9 June 1964, after the death of Jawaharlal Nehru.
- His tenure ended on 11 January 1966, due to his sudden death in Tashkent.
- Despite a short term, he played a crucial role in leading India during the 1965 Indo-Pak War.
- He gave the inspiring slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” highlighting the importance of soldiers and farmers.
- His leadership is remembered for simplicity, integrity, and national unity.
What was the Reason Behind Lal Bahadur Shastri’s death?
The death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, remains one of the most discussed and sensitive chapters in Indian political history. Shastri ji passed away on 11 January 1966 in Tashkent, just hours after signing a historic peace agreement with Pakistan. While his sudden demise shocked the nation, the absence of a post-mortem and limited public records led to widespread questions over the years. To address these concerns, the government later constituted a committee to review the circumstances surrounding his death.
Important points related to the investigation and official stand:
- The Raj Narain Committee was constituted in 1977 during the tenure of the Janata Party government, not by the Central Information Commission.
- The committee was formed to examine the circumstances of Lal Bahadur Shastri’s death in 1966.
- It reportedly advised the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Ministries of External Affairs and Home Affairs to assess the records related to his demise.
- Despite this review, no concrete or conclusive evidence of foul play was found.
- Over the years, several theories have surfaced, but none have been supported by verified medical or legal proof.
- The official stance of the Government of India continues to state that Lal Bahadur Shastri died of a heart attack.
- The lack of a post-mortem examination and the continued classification of certain documents have kept the debate alive.
- However, from an official and legal perspective, his death is regarded as natural.
Also Read: National Constitution Day
Lal Bahadur Shastri Death Mystery Committee
The death of Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1966 led to widespread public questions, prompting the government to later review the circumstances surrounding his demise. Over the years, the most discussed body in this context has been the Raj Narain Committee, which examined the matter at a later stage.
Important details of the committee:
- The Raj Narain Committee was constituted in 1977 during the tenure of the Janata Party government.
- It was set up to review the circumstances related to the sudden death of Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent.
- The committee reportedly recommended that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the Ministries of External Affairs and Home Affairs examine and assess available records linked to his death.
- Despite this review, no conclusive evidence of foul play was found.
- Over time, various theories emerged, but none were supported by verified medical or legal proof.
- The official stand of the Government of India continues to state that Lal Bahadur Shastri died of a heart attack.
5 Achievements of Lal Bahadur Shastri
Here are the 5 major Achievements of Lal Bahadur Shastri:
- Gave the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”: Lal Bahadur Shastri coined this powerful slogan to recognise the equal importance of soldiers defending the nation and farmers feeding it. The slogan became a symbol of national unity and self-reliance.
- Led India during the 1965 Indo-Pak War: He guided the country with calm and firm leadership during the 1965 war, strengthening national morale and standing firmly for India’s sovereignty on the global stage.
- Promoted the Green Revolution: Shastri strongly supported agricultural reforms and encouraged the use of high-yield seeds and modern farming methods, laying the foundation for India’s Green Revolution and food security.
- Strengthened India’s industrial growth: He focused on developing heavy industries and public sector enterprises to reduce dependence on imports and promote economic self-sufficiency.
- Set an example of honest and simple leadership: Known for his personal integrity and simple lifestyle, Shastri set high ethical standards in public life, inspiring trust and respect among citizens and future leaders.
Also Read: India’s Journey of Independence
Top Quotes by Lal Bahadur Shastri
“The basic idea of governance, as I see it, is to hold the society together so that it can develop and march towards certain goals.”
-Lal Bahadur Shastri
“The preservation of freedom is not the task of soldiers alone. The whole nation has to be strong.”
-Lal Bahadur Shastri
“We believe in peace and peaceful development, not only for ourselves but for people all over the world.”
-Lal Bahadur Shastri
“We must fight for peace bravely as we fought in war.”
-Lal Bahadur Shastri
“I am not as simple as I look.”
-Lal Bahadur Shastri
Also Read: 20+ Greatest Indian Freedom Fighters and their Sacrifices!
FAQs
India celebrates the death anniversary of the second PM of India on 11 January 1966. The entire nation pays homage to the Man of Peace on this day for his sacrifice and contributions.
He died on 11 January 1966, just after signing the Peace treaty with the then President of Pakistan to end the Indo-Pakistan war. A heart attack was announced as the official reason for his death but several conspiracies around his death have not proved to date.
The birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri is celebrated on 2 October. It is celebrated as Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti. This day is also celebrated as Gandhi Jayanti and is a National holiday in India.
Relevant Blogs
| World Hindi Day | Quotes on National Unity Day |
| National Screenwriter’s Day | World Day of War Orphans |
| Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti in English: The Man of Peace | Armed Forces Day |
This was all about Lal Bahadur Shastri Death Anniversary. For more such articles, make sure to check the trending events page of Leverage Edu.
