Thousands of eyes turned to the skies on Wednesday when nine aircraft of the Indian Air Force’s elite Surya Kiran Team performed a spectacular aerobatic stunt over New Raipur to celebrate Chhattisgarh’s silver jubilee. The plane shot into the air in perfect sync, leaving trails of the Indian tricolor in its wake as the crowd exploded with chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.
The event, organized at Sindh Reservoir, was attended by Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Governor Ramin Deka, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Assembly Speaker Dr Raman Singh, and thousands of citizens. For an hour, Suriya Kiran’s team dazzled spectators with daring maneuvers that demonstrated precision and teamwork.
From above, team leader Captain Ajay Dashrathi saluted the people of Chhattisgarh on the occasion of the 25th Foundation Day of the state. Squadron Leader Gaurav Patel, a native of the state, saluted his country from the cockpit with the words “Jai Johar!” And “Chhattisgarhia Sabsi Badiya”, which received thunderous applause.
Under the command of Wing Commander AV Singh, the One-F-9 and One-F-8 helicopter units followed spectacular air operations. Adidev helicopters flew just 15 meters above the ground while 14 Garud commandos landed, while eight others demonstrated air movements simulating combat and disaster rescue scenarios.
The audience gasped as nine Hawk Mk-132 aircraft of Team Suriya Kiran drew formations like Heart, Diamond, Loop, Grover, Dawn Light and Combat Tejas. Phones and cameras were raised skyward as planes painted a heart shape to mark the state’s founding day, followed by a symbolic tri-color DNA design. The spectacle culminated in a 360-degree turn and Y-shaped formation dedicated to the youth of India, which also carried a message of courage, pride and inspiration.
Squadron Leader Patil’s salute added an emotional layer to the parade, symbolizing the bond between Chhattisgarh and the Air Force. Flight Lieutenant Kanwal Sandhu, a live commentator, provided insights on training and accuracy.
(tags for translation) IAF Surya Kiran
