10th August 2024, Mumbai The 25th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas marks a significant moment in India’s history—a day of remembrance, pride, and deep respect for the heroes who valiantly defended our nation during the Kargil conflict. This milestone commemorates the bravery, determination, and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in one of the most challenging terrains to secure our nation’s borders.
In a solemn and impactful ceremony, the Rotary Club of Bombay Kandivli (RCBK), in collaboration with Mumbai Defence Veterans, paid tribute to these brave hearts. The event was a poignant celebration of their service and sacrifice, bringing together war veterans, their families, and members of the community.
The event began with a Wreath Laying at the Amar Jawan, symbolizing the respect and honor for those who laid down their lives for the country. This was followed by the lighting of the lamp, marking the beginning of a ceremony filled with gratitude and reverence.
Dr. Mamta Jain, Public Image Director of RCBK, provided a compelling overview of the Kargil conflict, explaining its strategic significance and the formidable challenges faced by our soldiers in the harsh terrains. Through her thoughtful narration, she helped the audience appreciate not only the military achievements but also the personal sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families during the conflict. Her words resonated with the veterans, many of whom expressed that they felt truly seen and honoured in a way that few events had managed before.
As the evening progressed, the audience was captivated by the insightful commentary that highlighted the unique stories of each veteran. The importance of remembering these stories was emphasized—not just as tales of the past, but as enduring lessons in courage, resilience, and patriotism for future generations. The connection between the veterans and the audience was palpable, adding a deeply personal touch to the proceedings.
The event also saw the honoring and felicitation of 21 War Veterans and a Veer Naari. These brave individuals were recognized for their service with a deep sense of respect and appreciation. Their stories were not just shared but celebrated, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made by our soldiers and their families.
Adding to the atmosphere of patriotism, Desh Bhakti songs were performed by Rtn. Sunit and R/Ann Trupti, further enhanced the emotional resonance of the evening. The audience, which included over 100 attendees, was deeply moved by the heartfelt tributes and inspiring stories shared by the veterans.
A significant moment in the event was the symbolic handing over of Rakhis, collected by Rotary District 3141, to the jawans at the border. This gesture, led by District Events Team Rtn. Dr. Arun Garg and handed over to DG Chetan Desai and PA Deepak Jiandani, served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing bond between the community and the soldiers who protect our nation.
While many contributed to the event's success, a special acknowledgment goes to the organizing team, who worked tirelessly to ensure that every detail was thoughtfully planned and executed. The contributions of the convenor, Rtn. Dr. Mamta Jain, were particularly noteworthy, as she seamlessly wove together various elements of the program, ensuring that the essence of Kargil Vijay Diwas was honored. Her ability to articulate the importance of this day and the significance of each veteran’s contribution played a crucial role in making the event meaningful for everyone involved.
The support of nine other Rotary clubs from District 3141 was instrumental in making this event a success. Their collaboration highlights Rotary’s ongoing commitment to national integration, contributing to initiatives in education, health, skill development, and infrastructure in sensitive areas.
As the evening concluded, all present shared a sense of pride and inspiration. The event was not only a tribute to the past but also a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to supporting our nation’s heroes. The success of this significant occasion reflects the collective effort and dedication of everyone involved.
