Honouring and celebrating martyrs on November 30

Martyr’s Day in the UAE was celebrated on November 30. Who are martyrs and how important is martyr’s day? I couldn’t hold myself back to share this with all of you.

Going down memory lane, I was fortunate to visit the place ‘Wahat Al Karama’ on November 30, last year on martyrs’ day. I had heard about the place, but wasn’t familiar with it. I had seen it many a time while crossing the Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque along the main road in Abu Dhabi, but I had never visited it.

The place is so serene. When I reached there I got engrossed with the surroundings and couldn’t stop myself from expressing my thoughts about this place.

As we reached there, we got a warm welcome and were told that a parade was going to commence. Two men on horses lead the band of around 15 people with three soldiers in uniform. My soul was at peace with this place. The trees danced to the rhythm of the evening breeze.

After sunset, the place was lit with classic interior lights, giving it a completely new look to the viewers.

‘Wahat Al Karama’ is a timeless tribute to commemorate and honour the Emirati heroes who sacrificed their lives in the service of their country. The memorial is the centrepiece of Wahat Al Karama, an imposing public art structure made of thirty one massive leaning tablets clad in aluminium. The symbolism behind the memorial is clear — each tablet leans against the other, portraying the unity, solidarity and mutual support that bind the leadership of the country, its citizens and residents.

The visitor centre is an eye-catching display. I appreciate efforts behind the exercise given for children with parents and family.

I got mesmerised when I saw ‘Memorial Plaza’. It contains a spectacular round shallow pool that offer visitors a breathtaking reflection of both the Memorial and the Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

We have always been taught to respect the soldiers and martyrs of all countries who give their lives for the protection of the residents and citizens of their country. They deserve respect from all of us. They sacrifice everything for their country without giving it a second thought. I feel privileged to have brave soldiers across our country keeping us safe and secure! A big salute to the soldiers and all the martyrs.

■ The reader is a writer based in Abu Dhabi.