Indian Army jawans celebrate Diwali at the line of control, send heartfelt wishes to the nation

NEW DELHI: Away from their homes yet undeterred in spirit, Indian Army jawans celebrated Diwali with warmth and camaraderie at the Line of Control (LoC) on Wednesday evening. The soldiers observed the festival by performing traditional Diwali pooja, singing, dancing, and setting off firecrackers, symbolizing joy even on the nation’s frontier.

"Today, we are celebrating Diwali with our other family--the army jawans. We are far from our families," a jawan shared with ANI, reflecting the mixed emotions that come with being on duty during the festive season. Assuring the public of their unwavering dedication, he added, "I appeal to my fellow countrymen not to worry about anything. Happy Diwali to all from the Indian Army. We are standing here, guarding the border."

Another jawan expressed similar sentiments, sending Diwali greetings to all and urging citizens to celebrate peacefully at home. "We are firmly standing at the LoC. Celebrate the festival with your families," he said, emphasizing the familial bond among the soldiers, who spend months together on duty. “The Army is our home. We spend ten months here and take leave for the remaining two. We mix with the rest of the soldiers like our own family.”

Visibly moved, a jawan conveyed that while they miss their families, the joy of celebrating Diwali with their fellow soldiers brings solace. “I want to tell my countrymen to celebrate Diwali at home,” he said, resonating a sense of duty and sacrifice.

As the nation prepares for Diwali on October 31, starting with Dhanteras, the festive season holds even greater meaning, with these soldiers embodying the spirit of unity, hope, and resilience. This five-day festival, known as the ‘ Festival of Lights ,’ symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and good over evil, reminding citizens of the dedication of those who protect them every day.