Thousands of eyes turned skyward Wednesday as nine jets of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) elite Surya Kiran team performed breathtaking aerobatics over New Raipur to mark Chhattisgarh’s silver jubilee. The aircraft sliced through the air in perfect synchrony, leaving trails of the Indian tricolour as the crowd erupted with chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.”
The event, organised at the Sendh Reservoir, was attended by Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, and thousands of citizens. For an hour, the Surya Kiran team held spectators spellbound with daring manoeuvres that showcased precision and teamwork.
From high above, team leader Group Captain Ajay Dashrathi greeted the people of Chhattisgarh on the occasion of the state’s 25th Foundation Day. Squadron Leader Gaurav Patel, a native of the state, saluted his homeland from the cockpit with the words “Jai Johar!” and “Chhattisgarhiya Sabse Badhiya”, drawing thunderous applause.
Under the command of Wing Commander A.V. Singh, the One-F-9 and One-F-8 helicopter units followed with spectacular sky operations. “Adidev” helicopters hovered just 15 metres above the ground as 14 Garud Commandos rappelled down, while eight others demonstrated aerial movements simulating combat and disaster-rescue scenarios.
The audience gasped as nine Hawk Mk-132 aircraft of the Surya Kiran team painted formations such as Heart, Diamond, Loop, Grover, Dawn Light and Combat Tejas. Phones and cameras were raised skyward as jets traced a heart formation to mark the state’s foundation day, followed by a symbolic DNA design in tricolour. A 360° roll and a Y-shaped formation dedicated to India’s youth capped the spectacle, which also carried a message of courage, pride, and inspiration.
Squadron Leader Patel’s salute added an emotional layer to the show, symbolising the bond between Chhattisgarh and the Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu, the live commentator, offered insights into the training and precision.
