Akhilesh Chandra Saxena
Bareilly: A grand welcome ceremony for the participants of SANGRAM 1857 was conducted at the historic Shaheed Stamb in Bareilly. The event celebrated the spirit of patriotism and commemorated the heroes of the First War of Independence.
The ceremony was graced by Lt Gen D G Misra, General Officer Commanding, UB Area, as the chief guest, and Saumya Agarwal, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, as the guest of honour.
Highlights of the Event
On arrival, the chief guest and guest of honour were briefed about the various NCC activities undertaken in the region. A ceremonial welcome awaited the cyclists, who were greeted with cries of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and waving flags by over 200 SD/SW cadets lined up at the entrance to the memorial.
The event included:
- Flagging-In of the Cyclothon Team: The chief guest formally flagged in the team, followed by a group photograph and a briefing by the team members.
- Wreath-Laying Ceremony: Brig Narendra Charag, SM, captain of the Cyclothon team, along with two cadets, laid a wreath at the memorial. They were joined by Lt Gen D G Misra in paying homage to the martyrs.
- Cultural Performances: Cadets presented a patriotic song and three skits aimed at spreading awareness about the First War of Independence and instilling a sense of nationalism.
Memento Exchange
The Cyclothon team presented mementos to Brig Sandeep Verma, Group Commander, Bareilly Group, Soumya Agarwal, IAS, and Lt Gen D G Misra, GOC, UB Area. The dignitaries reciprocated the gesture, further strengthening the spirit of camaraderie.
Attendance and Interaction
The ceremony concluded with a rousing chant of “Bharat Mata ki Jai” and was followed by tea, where dignitaries, attendees, and Cyclothon team members interacted. Over 450 attendees, including military and civilian dignitaries, prominent citizens, institutional heads, ANOs, CTOs, PI staff, civil staff, and cadets, witnessed the event.
The SANGRAM 1857 Cyclothon team’s efforts in spreading patriotism and honoring the legacy of the First War of Independence received widespread appreciation.
