New Delhi, January 30: On January 30, India observes the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, remembering not only his life and legacy but also the enduring question surrounding his final moments, what were his last words?

The most widely accepted account states that Gandhi’s final utterance was “Hey Ram” (Oh Lord). These words are inscribed at Raj Ghat in New Delhi, reinforcing their symbolic and historical significance. According to popular belief, Gandhi whispered the words moments after being shot, embodying his lifelong devotion to truth, faith, and non-violence.

Gandhi was assassinated on January 30, 1948, at Birla House in Delhi, where he was shot three times in the chest by Nathuram Godse while walking to an evening prayer meeting. The assassination shocked the nation and the world, marking a tragic end to India’s foremost moral leader. Mahatma Gandhi Quotes for Martyrs’ Day: Inspirational Sayings, Slogans, Messages, Greetings, HD Images and Wallpapers To Honour Father of the Nation.

The significance of “Hey Ram” is deeply personal to Gandhi. He had once said that if he were to die with God’s name on his lips, he would be worthy of being called a true Mahatma. This belief strengthened public acceptance of the phrase as his last words.  Martyrs’ Day Quotes and Shaheed Diwas HD Images: Share Messages, Mahatma Gandhi Wallpapers and Greetings To Honour Father of the Nation on His Punyatithi.

However, alternative viewpoints exist. Gandhi’s personal assistant, Venkita Kalyanam, initially said in 2006 that he did not hear Gandhi say anything, suggesting the shooting happened too suddenly. In 2018, he clarified that the chaos at the scene may have prevented him from hearing the words, not that they were never spoken.

Despite differing accounts, “Hey Ram” remains Gandhi’s accepted and symbolic final message, remembered each year as India pays tribute to the Father of the Nation on his death anniversary.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 30, 2026 07:54 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).