Baisakhi is a vibrant festival celebrated in Amritsar, Punjab, marking the harvest season and the founding of the Khalsa in April. The festival is observed with grand festivities, including kirtans, processions, and prayers at Gurudwaras, especially at the iconic Golden Temple. Devotees take a holy dip, offer prayers, and participate in langars, reflecting the spirit of community and service. The city comes alive with bhangra and gidda performances, resonating with the beats of dhol and joyful celebrations. Baisakhi symbolizes prosperity, faith, and unity, bringing people together in a colorful and spirited celebration of heritage and devotion.
Mahavir Jayanti is a revered festival celebrated in Kachchh, Gujarat, marking the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. Observed with devotion and joy in April, the festival features grand processions, temple rituals, and prayers reflecting Jain values of non-violence and compassion. Devotees gather at Jain temples, offering Abhishek (ceremonial bathing) to Lord Mahavir’s idol, followed by discourses on his teachings. The air resonates with bhajans and chants, creating an atmosphere of peace and spirituality. Mahavir Jayanti highlights Kachchh’s deep-rooted Jain heritage, uniting communities in a celebration of faith and righteousness.
Hemis Festival is a grand and vibrant celebration held in June at Hemis Monastery in Leh, Ladakh, honoring Guru Padmasambhava, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The festival is marked by the famous Cham dance, where monks in elaborate masks and colorful robes perform sacred dances, depicting the victory of good over evil. The monastery comes alive with prayers, religious rituals, and the unfurling of a giant thangka (Buddhist tapestry) every 12 years. The air resonates with the sounds of cymbals, drums, and long horns, creating a mesmerizing spiritual atmosphere. Hemis Festival reflects Ladakh’s deep Buddhist heritage, drawing devotees and visitors into its rich cultural and religious traditions.
Sindhu Darshan Festival is a vibrant celebration held in June in Leh, Ladakh, honoring the sacred Indus River. This festival symbolizes unity, cultural harmony, and national pride, attracting pilgrims and tourists from across India. The event features traditional folk dances, musical performances, and prayers by Buddhist monks along the riverbanks. A highlight is the ceremonial offering of water from different rivers of India into the Indus, signifying unity in diversity. With its blend of spirituality, culture, and patriotism, Sindhu Darshan Festival fosters a deep connection to Ladakh’s heritage while promoting peace and togetherness.
The Indian Army's D5 Motorcycle Expedition, commemorating the 25th anniversary of India's 1999 Kargil War victory, was flagged off by the Chief of the Army Staff at the National War Memorial, New Delhi. The expedition began on June 12, 2024, from Dinjan, Dwarka, and Dhanushkodi, with three teams of eight motorcyclists traversing diverse terrains to reach Delhi.
On 11 December 1971, Indian Army paratroopers descended over East Pakistan, advancing Bangladesh's liberation. On 15 August 2021, Jaisalmer’s sky mirrored this, celebrating 75 years of Independence. The Indian Air Force organized a 'Tri-Services Skydive' at Chandan Range, Rajasthan, as part of ‘Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav’ commemorative activities.
The Indian Army's hosted a grand mega boat race at the Teesta-Mahananda Link Canal in Gajoldoba to commemorate 75 years of Indian Independence. Seventeen teams participated, including the Army, Air Force, CAPF, and NCC. This event featured martial arts performances by Kripan Division soldiers, was filled with enthusiastic spectators, including veterans who cheered on the participants.
An eight-day Land Yachting Expedition to mark the Silver
Jubilee of the Corps of Army Air Defence was flagged off from Dhordo,
Kutch. The 15-member team will cover 400 km across the barren, flat
lands of Rann,
exploring Dharamshala, Shaktibet, and Dhordo, while promoting
environmental awareness and inspiring youths to pursue military careers.