Myths, Legend & Facts

Every year, on the Friday before Easter Sunday, millions of Christians around the world pause to remember the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This day—known as Good Friday—marks one of the most solemn occasions in the Christian calendar. Despite the sorrowful events it commemorates, the day is called “good” because of the hope and redemption it ultimately signifies. The Origins of Good Friday The observance of Good Friday traces its roots to the earliest days of Christianity. According to the New Testament, Jesus was arrested, tried, and sentenced to death by crucifixion by the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. His death occurred on a Friday, around AD 30–33, just before the Jewish festival of Passover. The term “Good Friday” is believed to have originated from the term “God’s Friday” or “Holy Friday.” In many languages, the day is referred to with words that reflect mourning or sadness. For instance, in German it is called Karfreitag, meaning “Sorrowful Friday.” While the exact ...

Many of us who were born in early 80s or before, might remember 1988 Doordarshan serial “Param Veer Chakra”. I was profoundly moved by it and the very first episode, which depicted the heroic story of Major Somnath Sharma, deeply inspired me. His bravery and sacrifice during the Battle of Badgam have stayed with me ever since, and I felt compelled to share his legacy with a wider audience.   Major Somnath Sharma was born on January 31, 1923, in Dadh, a village near Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. He hailed from a distinguished military family; his father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, was a senior officer in the Indian Army, and his brothers also served in the armed forces, with Lt. General Surindar Nath Sharma and General Vishwa Nath Sharma both attaining high ranks. This environment imbued Somnath with a strong sense of duty and patriotism from an early age.   Educated at Sherwood College, Nainital, and later at the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College (no...