People of Nagpur, on Friday, witnessed the military prowess and cultural heritage in Indian Army during a breathtaking event called ‘Shaurya Sandhya 2024’ conducted by Uttar Maharashtra and Gujarat (UM&G) Sub-Area, Nagpur at Mankapur Stadium. The event was attended by General Manoj Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, the Chief of the Army Staff; Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister and other senior ranked Indian Army and Indian Air Force officers. The evening was marked by a series of exhilarating performances that showcased the diverse skills and unwavering spirit of the Army. Indian Army is known for its war skills and on Friday, the soldiers displayed the Indian form of Martial Arts that is Gatka, Kalaripayattu, Thang Ta and Mallakhamb that enthralled the audience. A thrilling and jaw-dropping display by the ‘Daredevils’ motorcycle team of the Indian Army was the major attraction of the event. The riders, other than being proficient in their trade work, exhibited an unmatched determination, commitment, alertness, courage and precision on their motorcycle. Indian Army’s ‘Daredevils’ team bagged 31 world records for their stunts worldwide.

 

Tent pegging and trick riding by eight horses of the Remount Veterinary Corps also enthralled the spectators. Six trained Army dogs or ‘Silent Warriors’ of Indian Army received applause from the audience for their training and skills on the war front. All the six dogs followed their instructors which showed how the Indian Army uses its dogs during operations. The dogs also displayed various acrobatics and greeted the Chief of Army Staff along with their trainers. Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) and Chetak Helicopters of Indian Army did a fly past in the beginning which was enjoyed by the audience. A war like demo was also presented by six Special Forces commandos, in which they slithered down from an ALH on the ground and rescued a hostage from terrorists. A combat free fall from 6,000 feet from an ALH chopper was carried out by three Paratroopers which was also appreciated by the audience and guests. Similarly, Two Army personal showered flowers while paragliding over the

venue.

 

The static display included Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, Bofors Gun, Pinaka Rocket System etc, which are one of the major attractions of this three-day event. Other equipment and technology used by the Indian Army are also on display in the static exhibition. A large number of people thronged the static display site and experienced the weapons used by the Indian Army. Performances by Army Pipe Band and Symphony Band was also enjoyed by the audience. The event concluded with a drone show and fireworks. Beyond the grand spectacle, ‘Shaurya Sandhya’ served as a powerful reminder of the Army’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders while upholding its cultural values. The event not only fostered a sense of national pride but also inspired the youth to consider a career in the armed forces.