22 Years Later: Survivors Of The Godhra Train Tragedy Break Their Silence

For the first time in 22 years, the survivors and families of victims of the tragic Sabarmati Express burning have broken their silence. On the fateful morning of February 27, 2002, a horrific incident claimed the lives of 58 people, mostly Hindu pilgrims returning from Ayodhya.

These were mostly ordinary Gujaratis—working-class men, women, and children—many from economically weaker sections of society. Their lives were shattered, yet their stories remained untold. While media coverage over the years focused on the larger aftermath of the incident, the voices of those directly affected faded into obscurity. For decades, they were preoccupied with pursuing justice and compensation in courts, leaving little space for their personal narratives to be heard.

Swarajya’s new documentary, produced with the sole aim of bringing these stories to the forefront, is a labor of truth and perseverance. Directed by Associate Editor Sharan Setty, the film delves deep into the survivors' experiences, shedding light on their resilience and pain. Through first-hand accounts, it uncovers what they endured and how they have grappled with the trauma of that tragic day.

Watch the full documentary:

This initiative is a mission to honour the memory of the victims and give a voice to those who have long been silenced. However, producing this investigative piece has been no small feat. Months of effort, resources, and financial commitment went into its making.

Every rupee donated, through this link, will help us recover the significant investment we’ve made and it will be an encouragement for us to do more--and ensure that these stories, which deserve to be told, reach a wider audience. Your support is crucial in bringing justice to the truth and helping us continue creating impactful journalism.