Industrialist Anand Mahindra recently took to social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to share personal advice and admiration for the Indian Army’s Sikh Regiment following their impressive display at the 75th Republic Day Parade. The Chairman of the Mahindra Group shared a post by social media user Harjinder Singh Kukreja, showcasing the Sikh Regiment’s march past during the Republic Day celebrations.
“Some personal advice to other armies: Don’t ever… EVER… mess with these guys…” wrote Anand Mahindra, emphasizing the strength and determination of the Indian Army.
Some personal advice to other armies:
Don’t ever.. EVER… mess with these guys…
💪🏽🇮🇳
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) January 27, 2024
The post by Harjinder Singh Kukreja highlighted the echoes of the Sikh Regiment’s march, resonating with their legacy. The Sikh Regiment, with their battle cry “Bole So Nihal – Sat Sri Akal,” marched with valor in the Republic Day 2024 Parade, inspiring awe. The regiment’s legacy dates back to 1846, originating from the remnants of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s ‘Sher-e-Punjab’ army.
Established in 1846, the Sikh Regiment has a rich history, contributing significantly to various battles and campaigns. It played pivotal roles in the North-West Frontier Province during British India and participated in various World War I battles and campaigns, including Tofrek (1885), Saragarhi (1897), La Bassee (1914), Neuve Chapelle (1914-15), and Hai (1917). Post-Independence, the Sikh Regiment continued its crucial contributions in Srinagar (1947), Tithwal (1948), Burki (1965), Raja (1965), Poonch (1971), and Parbat Ali (1971).
The commendable service of the Sikh Regiment has been acknowledged with numerous accolades, including 82 battle honors, 16 theater honors, 10 Victoria Crosses, 21 Indian Orders of Merit, two Param Vir Chakras, three Ashoka Chakras, one Padma Vibhushan, two Padma Bhushans, 11 Param Vishishit Seva Medals, 14 Maha Vir Chakras, 12 Kirti Chakras, and two Uttam Vishishit Seva Medals.
Additionally, the regiment has received 72 Shaurya Chakras, one Padma Shree, 19 Ati Vishishit Seva Medals, eight Vir Chakras, nine Yudh Seva Medals, 293 Sena Medals, 61 Vishishit Seva Medals, and seven Arjuna Awards for their exceptional service and bravery.
Following the Sikh Regiment, the Kumaon Regiment, led by Captain Chinmay Shekhar Tapaswi, also took its place in the Republic Day Parade. The Kumaon Regiment, the first to see action in Jammu and Kashmir post-independence, holds the motto ‘Parakramo Vijayate’ (valour triumphs) and has a commendable record of gallantry awards.
The Republic Day parade showcased the prowess of the Indian Army with marching contingents from various regiments. The combined band of 72 musicians from the Army Air Defence College and Centre, Dogra Regiment Centre, and the Indian Army Service Corps Centre (North) played ‘Sare Jahan Se Acha, Hindustan Hamara,’ adding a musical touch to the celebration.
To conclude the marching contingents, a combined band of 72 musicians from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment Centre, Jat Regimental Centre, and the Army Ordnance Corps Centre showcased their musical prowess. Led by Subedar Ajay Kumar N of the AOC Centre, the band added a vibrant note to the Republic Day parade.
Anand Mahindra’s social media post not only praised the Sikh Regiment but also served as a testament to the pride and respect the Indian Army commands for its unwavering dedication and commitment to the nation’s security. The Republic Day Parade, a symbol of India’s unity in diversity and military strength, continues to be a source of inspiration and pride for citizens across the country.
