On 15th August 2025, as we celebrate India’s 76th Independence Day, I find myself reflecting deeply on the immense sacrifices of our soldiers. Every year, this day reminds me not only of our freedom but also of the courage, determination, and selflessness of the men and women who stand guard at our borders, ensuring that we sleep peacefully. This year, I felt compelled to travel to some historic locations that narrate untold stories of bravery—places that speak of war, resilience, and the human spirit.
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Walking Through History at Kargil
Whenever I hear the word Kargil, images of snow-covered mountains, rugged terrains, and valiant soldiers spring to mind. Kargil is more than a war zone; it is a testament to our nation’s resolve. While exploring the region, I visited the Hunderman village, a poignant place that was destroyed during the Kargil War. Standing there, I could see the Pakistani-occupied Kashmir and their army bunkers just a few kilometres away—a chilling reminder of how close danger once loomed.
Walking through the ruins of Hunderman, I couldn’t help but think about the soldiers who defended these lands in such harsh conditions. The biting cold, high altitudes, and treacherous paths didn’t deter them. Their unwavering courage and sacrifice were the only shields protecting our nation. As I stood there, the wind seemed to carry stories of valor from decades past, reminding me that freedom is neither free nor effortless.
The Story of the Vijayantha Tank: India’s Military Prowess
My journey then took me far from the icy peaks of Kargil to Salasar, Rajasthan, where one of India’s first locally produced tanks—the Vijayantha tank—is preserved for the public. Seeing it up close was a surreal experience. This tank, produced under license from a British company, played a crucial role in the 1965 and 1971 wars against Pakistan. About 2,200 of these tanks served our army until 2008, embodying both technological progress and military strength.
Climbing onto the tank, I could almost imagine the soldiers who once maneuvered it through the chaos of war. Brigadier Ajit Singh often emphasizes that the Vijayantha tank isn’t just metal and machinery—it’s a symbol of courage, strategy, and history. Standing there, I felt a deep connection to the generations of soldiers who safeguarded our nation’s borders with unwavering commitment. The tank, preserved for public viewing, is not just an artifact; it’s a reminder that the bravery of our soldiers is tangible, touchable, and unforgettable.
Turtuk: A Village Reclaimed and Lives Transformed
One of the most emotional stops on my journey was Turtuk, a village that remained under Pakistani control for nearly 25 years until the 1971 war. Visiting Turtuk, I met locals who recounted stories of relief, pride, and joy when the Indian Army arrived. One tale that stayed with me was about Major Rinchen, who not only assisted the villagers but also ensured the safety and honour of women during the conflict.
An elderly resident shared how they went to sleep in Pakistan and woke up in India. The joy on their face was infectious, a testament to the profound impact of freedom and protection. It was fascinating to see how these historical moments reshaped perceptions, dispelling misconceptions about communal harmony in India. For the people of Turtuk, the army wasn’t just a military presence; it was a protective, life-changing force. Hearing these stories made me realize that our soldiers don’t just defend borders—they safeguard dreams, dignity, and lives.
Goba Ali: A Child Who Found Guardians in Soldiers
In another corner of India, I met Goba Ali, a five-year-old at the time of the 1971 war, who found himself stranded near the Indo-Pak border. He recalls with vivid clarity how the Indian Army entered early on 18th December 1971, providing not just safety but a sense of belonging. To this day, Goba Ali considers the Indian Army as both a mother and father figure.
Listening to him recount his story was a humbling experience. It reminded me that the army’s work is not confined to borders or strategies; it reaches into the very hearts of citizens, shaping lives in ways that often go unnoticed. These narratives, simple yet profound, are what make Independence Day more than just flags and speeches—they are living proof of the courage and humanity of our armed forces.
Reflections on Sacrifice and Bravery
As I traveled through Kargil, Salasar, and Turtuk, one thought kept recurring: freedom and safety are built on the backs of countless sacrifices. From the harsh mountains of Kargil to the historic villages of Rajasthan and the northern frontiers, every soldier carries a story of bravery, endurance, and love for the nation.
India stands today as the fourth largest military force in the world, but these numbers alone cannot capture the essence of dedication, training, and vigilance. Our soldiers remain alert 24/7, facing dangers that most of us cannot even imagine. Yet, they do so with a smile, a sense of duty, and the unwavering belief that their actions protect millions of lives.
Independence Day Through the Eyes of a Traveler
This 15th August, while the tricolour flutters on rooftops and public squares, I feel a personal connection to every story I encountered on my journey. Independence Day is no longer just a date in the calendar for me; it is a living, breathing celebration of courage and humanity.
Watching the Indian flag rise, I imagined the soldiers at the borders, the tanks in Salasar, and the villages of Turtuk and Hunderman. I thought about the child who found guardians in soldiers, the women whose dignity was protected, and the brave men who never returned home. It struck me that every cheer, every song of patriotism, and every salute carries within it the weight of untold sacrifices.
Lessons in Courage, Duty, and Humanity
From these travels, I carry more than memories—I carry lessons. I learned that courage isn’t the absence of fear, but the willingness to stand firm despite it. I saw that duty goes beyond orders and strategies, touching the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways. And most importantly, I understood that freedom is a living gift, maintained through constant vigilance, resilience, and selflessness.
Our soldiers are not just warriors; they are storytellers of bravery, history, and sacrifice. Every hill they climb, every border they defend, every life they protect adds a chapter to India’s narrative of freedom. And as someone who travels to uncover the hidden stories of Bharat, I feel honoured to witness and share these tales with the world.
Honouring the Guardians of Our Nation
As we celebrate India’s 76th Independence Day, let us pause to truly honour our soldiers. They ensure that our homes are safe, our children sleep peacefully, and our country remains sovereign. The stories of Kargil, Turtuk, Salasar, and countless other locations are not just historical footnotes—they are reminders of the courage, humanity, and perseverance that define our armed forces.
Every soldier, whether on the frontlines or behind the scenes, contributes to the foundation of our freedom. Their sacrifices are woven into the very fabric of our nation, shaping the India we live in today. On this Independence Day, I stand proud, humbled, and grateful.
How to Reach Kargil
Reaching Kargil is an adventure in itself. The town is well-connected by road and air, though options are limited.
- By Road: The most popular route is via Leh-Srinagar Highway (NH1D). From Srinagar, it’s roughly a 205 km drive through breathtaking valleys and winding mountain roads. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and be prepared for steep climbs and sharp turns. The journey usually takes 8–10 hours depending on road conditions.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Kargil Airport, though flights are infrequent. The more reliable option is flying to Leh Airport (around 220 km away) and then taking a taxi or bus to Kargil.
- By Bus: State-run and private buses operate from Srinagar and Leh. The roads can be challenging, so opt for a daylight journey for safety and scenic views.
Tip: Carry warm clothes, water, and snacks, as amenities can be sparse on mountain roads. Also, check weather conditions and road closures, especially during monsoon or winter months.
Jai Hind: A Personal Tribute
For me, travelling through these historic sites and meeting people whose lives were transformed by our soldiers’ bravery is more than a journey—it’s a tribute. A tribute to the vigilance of those who stand guard, to the courage that turns history into a story of hope, and to the selflessness that makes freedom possible.
As we unfurl the tricolour this 15th August, I feel that the most fitting homage is not just words or songs, but remembrance. Remembering the sacrifices, the lives changed, and the valour that ensures we remain safe, proud, and free. To the guardians of our nation: thank you. Your courage, commitment, and humanity make every Independence Day truly meaningful.
Jai Hind!
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