Kolkata : Headquarters Eastern Command will commemorate the 54th Vijay Diwas on 16 December 2025, honouring India’s historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak War. As part of the celebrations, a grand Military Tattoo was organised at the Mangal Pandey Military Training Area, Vijay Durg, Kolkata, drawing an overwhelming public response from across the city and adjoining regions.
The prestigious event was graced by Gen (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd), Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram, and Aroop Biswas, Hon’ble Minister of Youth Services & Sports, Housing and Power, Government of West Bengal, as the Chief Guests. They were joined by Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, along with senior military officers, civil dignitaries and distinguished guests.
The celebrations featured a breathtaking array of military displays, commencing with an impressive flypast by Army Combat Helicopters. This was followed by thrilling tent-pegging performances by Army riders, exemplifying the extraordinary bond between soldiers and their steeds. The audience was also captivated by combat manoeuvre demonstrations by Indian Army Aviators, showcasing operational precision and battlefield agility.
Further enhancing the spectacle were microlight aircraft displays, cutting-edge demonstrations of swarm drones and robotic mules, and an extensive exhibition of modern weapons, equipment and military drones, offering valuable insights into India’s advancing defence technologies.
Adding rich cultural and traditional depth to the programme were spirited performances of Kalaripayattu, Bhangra, Gatka and Jalari Phatak, which received thunderous applause from the spectators. The Army Band’s rousing martial music further elevated the patriotic fervour, enthralling the audience throughout the evening.
Addressing the gathering, Gen (Dr) V. K. Singh (Retd) and Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari reflected on the strong Indo–Bangladesh friendship, the atrocities committed by the Pakistani Army on Bengalis in erstwhile East Pakistan, and the unparalleled courage, resilience and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces and Mukti Jodhas. Their bravery led to the decisive defeat of Pakistani forces and the historic surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops, culminating in the creation of an independent Bangladesh.
More than a celebration, the event stood as a solemn tribute to the valour, sacrifice and indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, while reaffirming the enduring bond between India and Bangladesh. The grand military spectacle honoured the legacy of Vijay Diwas and forged a deep emotional connection with the public through history, tradition and military excellence.
