Special Correspondent
Pune: On the evening of January 15, 2024, the Bombay Engineers Group and Centre hosted a spectacular event, “Gaurav Gatha,” a grand tribute to the valor, courage, and storied history of the Indian Army. The celebration, part of the 77th Army Day Parade, honored the army’s evolution from its ancient roots to its present status as a formidable military force.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and other esteemed guests. The evening unfolded as a vibrant and emotional journey, filled with light, sound, and live performances, vividly depicting the army’s rich history and modern-day prowess.
A Heartfelt Tribute to India’s Armed Forces
The Defence Minister’s address highlighted the army’s critical role in protecting India’s borders and fostering national unity. Singh also virtually inaugurated the foundation stone for the Army Paralympic Node in Dighi, Pune, and launched the Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan App. A special commemorative medallion marking the 352nd coronation of Shivaji Maharaj was unveiled, alongside a day cover that honored the legacy of the legendary king.
A particularly moving moment came when Rajnath Singh honored eight Veer Naris and the families of fallen soldiers, recognizing their selfless sacrifices in service to the nation.
A Journey Through Time
The event was structured into seven thematic segments, each celebrating a unique aspect of the Indian Army’s incredible journey:
Yudh Kala (Martial Arts and Combat Skills): This segment showcased India’s ancient martial traditions, including Gatka, Kalaripayattu, Khukri Hath, Tang-Ta, and Mallakhamb, demonstrating the scientific principles of Dhanurveda and the timeless warrior spirit.
Yudh Pradarshan (Battle Demonstrations): A thrilling live-action battle simulation highlighted the army’s operational readiness, including a tactical raid on a terrorist hideout, underscoring its advanced technology and commitment to its motto of “Naam, Namak, Nishan” (Name, Honour, Symbol).
Pracheen Ranneeti (Ancient Warfare Strategies): Drawing from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, this segment dramatized the military strategies of legendary warriors, showcasing the lasting influence of ancient battle tactics on modern warfare.
Yudh Parivartan (Evolution of Warfare): This segment illustrated the transformation of warfare from ancient close-combat to the use of cavalry, firearms, and mechanized warfare, symbolizing the army’s adaptability and growth over centuries.
Shaurya Gaatha (Tales of Valour): The courage and sacrifice of soldiers in battles such as Badgam (1947-48), Longewala, and Tololing were honored through poignant retellings, immortalizing the heroism of figures like Major Somnath Sharma and CQMH Abdul Hamid.
Samarth Bharat, Saksham Sena (Capable India, Strong Army): A tableau highlighted the army’s role not only in defense but also in nation-building, showcasing its technological advancements and modern-day combat capabilities.
Recognition of Service and Resilience: The Defence Minister interacted with soldiers from the Indian and Nepalese armies, NCC cadets, women Agniveers, and youths from the Mission Olympic Wing, expressing admiration for their dedication. Special awards were presented, including the Best Marching Contingent award to the BEG Marching Contingent and recognitions to the Nepali Army Band, NCC Girls Contingent, and the Mission Olympics tableau team.
A Symbolic Journey: Gaurav Kalash Cyclothon
One of the most moving moments came with the Gaurav Kalash Cyclothon team, which had journeyed 750 kilometers across Maharashtra, collecting water from various forts of Shivaji Maharaj. This symbolic act connected India’s rich military heritage to the present-day strength of its armed forces.
Concluding with Resilience and Creativity
The event closed with a stunning Mouth Painting by Airman Mridul Ghosh, a paraplegic artist from the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre. The painting symbolized the resilience and creativity that transcends physical challenges, reflecting the indomitable spirit of both the artist and the army.
Gaurav Gatha was not merely an event—it was a powerful, emotional tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and strength of the Indian Army, a celebration of its past and present contributions to the nation.
