Victory Day is one of the most significant historical dates, celebrated every year on May 9th with profound respect and pride. This day marks the end of the Great Patriotic War—a war in which millions of people sacrificed their lives to defend their homeland, freedom, and the future of subsequent generations. According to the Law of the Republic of Tajikistan "On Public Holidays," May 9th is declared the Day of Victory of Peoples in the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945) and is an official state holiday in Tajikistan.
In honor of Victory Day, several streets, squares, and the Victory Park in Dushanbe have been named to commemorate the triumph. On the eve of the holiday, the "Week of Remembrance" is held, featuring meetings with war veterans (90,000 warriors from Tajikistan perished in combat operations) aimed at educating the younger generation.
May 9th is the day of victory over fascism, the victory of light over darkness. Out of Tajikistan’s population, 290,000 people went to war, and 92,000 of them were buried on foreign soil. In the war, which lasted 1,418 days and nights, 40 countries participated. The Great Patriotic War lasted from June 22, 1941, to May 9, 1945, and resulted in the loss of 55 million lives. During the conflict, 63 soldiers from Tajikistan were named Heroes of the Soviet Union, 15 were awarded all three degrees of the Order of Glory, and 58,000 soldiers were honored with various orders and medals.
Tajik heroes including Tuychi Erjigitov, Saidkul Turdiev, Domullo Azizov, Safar Amirshoev, Chutak Urozov, Ismoil Hamzaaliev, Hodi Kenjaev, Ismat Sharifov, and Amirali Saidbekov sacrificed their lives for the liberation of Lithuania, Ukraine, and Czechoslovakia. The noble memory of those who fell for freedom will never be forgotten.
The Great Patriotic War was a severe trial for the peoples of the former Soviet Union. Not only soldiers, but also women, the elderly, and even children contributed to the victory, working tirelessly on the front lines and in the rear. We must always remember with pride that alongside other nations fighting against fascist tyranny, the brave men and women of Tajikistan made a significant and worthy contribution.
We consider this horrific war the darkest page of history and a great tragedy for our nation. Out of Tajikistan's 1.5 million population at that time, over 300,000 people were mobilized for battle, representing 50% of the country's able-bodied population. More than 100,000 of them died in battle, over 40,000 went missing, and another 60,000 returned from the war with disabilities.
These sacrifices, eternally recorded in our modern history, embody the Tajik nation's contribution to this great victory and the maintenance of global peace. We will never forget the names and service of those who did not return, and we will always show respect to those who returned home victorious.
For their bravery and heroism in World War II, 58,000 Tajik officers and soldiers were awarded orders and medals, and 55 individuals were honored with the high title of "Hero of the Soviet Union." Additionally, more than 45,000 residents of Tajikistan were sent to industrial enterprises in other regions of the USSR, and many of them were mobilized to the front from there. Furthermore, during the war years, more than 100,000 people—mostly women and children—were evacuated to Tajikistan from war-torn regions, and our republic became a second home for them.
Victory Day is not only a day of celebration but also a day of remembrance. Looking back, we realize the true value of peace. This date urges us to preserve unity, friendship, and tranquility so that such tragedies are never repeated. Victory Day is a symbol of courage and the victory of truth over falsehood. Honoring heroes and preserving historical memory is the duty of every generation. May peace and stability always prevail in our land.
We express our gratitude to all those who sacrificed themselves for peace and freedom. May their memory live forever!
Raufzoda Eraj Abdurahim
Head of the Food Safety Committee Administration
in Dushanbe city and Districts of Republican Subordination.
