Republic of Balochistan cites 1839 Battle of Kalat, honours Khan Mehrab Khan and others who died defending the homeland
The Republic of Balochistan has announced that November 13 will be commemorated globally each year as Baloch National Martyrs’ Day, honouring those who lost their lives defending what the announcement describes as Balochistan’s independence and sovereignty.
In a press note dated October 25, the Republic of Balochistan said the observance had already been collectively declared by the Baloch nation and would serve as an occasion to remember the region’s historical figures and unsung heroes.
Remembering the 1839 Battle of Kalat
The announcement traces the significance of the date to November 13, 1839, when British colonial forces attacked the palace of Kalat, then the centre of the Baloch state.
According to the press note, Khan Mehrab Khan, the ruler of Kalat, chose to defend his homeland rather than surrender and was killed in the battle. Remembered by Baloch nationalists as “Lal Shaheed”, meaning “the Crimson Martyr”, he remains a prominent figure in Baloch historical memory.
The statement also highlights the sacrifices of people from different religious and social backgrounds, including Diwan Bachu Mal, a Hindu subject of the Baloch state who, it says, lost his life defending the homeland.
Emphasising the region’s pluralistic heritage, the announcement says the sacrifices of people from different faiths reflect a tradition of collective responsibility for Balochistan’s defence.
Candlelight tributes across borders
The press note states that Baloch communities in Balochistan and abroad observe November 13 by gathering, lighting candles and paying tribute to those who died for their homeland.
The annual commemoration, it adds, is intended to reinforce a sense of shared identity among Baloch people across geographical boundaries and generations.
The announcement concludes by calling attention to the memory of the martyrs and the historical events associated with the date, under the hashtag #13NovBalochMartyrsDay.
Source: Press note issued by the Republic of Balochistan, dated October 25, 2026.
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