Kumar Bahukhandi
Five helicopters of the Indian Air Force’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team perform with tricolour smoke trails above Sendh Lake in Nava Raipur during Chhattisgarh’s Statehood Day celebrations on Monday, November 2, 2026. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
Sarang’s five-helicopter formations, Akash Ganga skydivers and Garud commandos enthral spectators at Sendh Lake during Chhattisgarh’s Statehood Day celebrations
Key Highlights
- Governor Ramen Deka praises the courage, discipline and teamwork of Indian Air Force personnel.
- Five Sarang helicopters perform intricate formations and thrilling crossover manoeuvres.
- Akash Ganga skydivers and Garud commandos demonstrate parachuting, rescue and combat skills.
- A cockpit greeting of “Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya” draws an enthusiastic response.
- Tricolour smoke trails and “Vande Mataram” bring the aerial display to a memorable close.
Raipur: The skies above Nava Raipur became a showcase of courage, precision and military professionalism on Monday, November 2, as the Indian Air Force staged a spectacular air show at Sendh Lake during Chhattisgarh’s Statehood Day celebrations. Governor Ramen Deka attended the programme, which featured the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, Akash Ganga skydivers and Garud commandos.
Five helicopters flying in coordinated formations, parachutists descending towards the lakefront and commandos demonstrating operational skills kept spectators absorbed throughout the programme. Tricolour smoke trails and the strains of “Vande Mataram” added a patriotic dimension to the celebrations.
Appreciating the performance, Governor Deka said the participation of the prestigious Sarang team made the occasion particularly meaningful for the people of Chhattisgarh. He described the air show as an opportunity to witness the demanding training, dedication and commitment to national service that underpin the IAF’s capabilities.
“The courage, discipline, confidence and precise coordination displayed by our air warriors are an inspiration to every citizen, particularly the youth.”
— Governor Ramen Deka
Extending his greetings to the people on the state’s foundation celebrations, the Governor expressed the hope that Chhattisgarh would continue to attain new heights of development, progress and prosperity. He said the performances had further strengthened the enthusiasm and sense of pride surrounding the occasion.
Sarang Demonstrates the Strength of Trust and Teamwork
Governor Ramen Deka watches the Indian Air Force air show alongside Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, seen recording the aerial display, at Sendh Lake in Nava Raipur on Monday, November 2, 2026. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
Reflecting on the team’s name, Deka said “Sarang” means peacock. Just as the peacock symbolises beauty and India’s distinctive identity, he said, the display team represents the IAF’s dignity, skill and discipline.
The Governor observed that aerial formations may appear effortless from the ground, but each manoeuvre requires detailed planning, sustained practice, deep concentration and exceptional coordination. Pilots must remain conscious of their own movements while closely tracking those of their teammates.
He emphasised that mutual trust and carefully synchronised action allow the team to perform successfully under challenging conditions.
“Sarang’s performance conveys an important message: discipline, dedication, collective effort and mutual trust can help us achieve even the most difficult goals.”
— Governor Ramen Deka
Deka said these qualities offered valuable lessons for young people, encouraging them to pursue excellence, remain committed to their responsibilities and recognise the importance of working together.
Akash Ganga Skydivers Open the Show
The aerial programme began with a striking performance by the IAF’s Akash Ganga skydiving team. Descending through the open sky, the parachutists demonstrated controlled movement, balance and precision as they approached the designated landing area near Sendh Lake.
The skydivers adjusted their direction and descent before completing accurate landings, drawing sustained applause from the spectators.
Their performance offered a close view of the physical fitness, mental concentration and rigorous preparation required for military parachuting. The controlled descent and carefully judged landings set the tone for the demonstrations that followed.
Garud Commandos Showcase Rescue and Combat Readiness
The Garud commandos demonstrated their specialised skills through parachuting, helicopter slithering and simulated rescue and combat operations.
According to the official account of the programme, the commandos performed parachute descents from an altitude of 8,000 feet. They subsequently demonstrated slithering from a hovering Mi-17 helicopter, descending by ropes to reach the designated area.
The lakefront demonstration highlighted the commandos’ ability to respond swiftly, operate in difficult conditions and coordinate their actions during demanding missions.
The personnel concluded their presentation by saluting the dais, receiving enthusiastic applause for their disciplined performance.
Five Helicopters Deliver a Thrilling Sarang Display
A skydiver descends beneath a colourful parachute during the Indian Air Force air show at Sendh Lake in Nava Raipur on Monday, November 2, 2026. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
The centrepiece of the air show was the performance by the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, led by Group Captain Abhijit Kumar.
Five helicopters executed a succession of formations and aerial manoeuvres over Nava Raipur. Their coordinated movements illustrated the pilots’ control, judgement and ability to maintain precise positions throughout the display.
At different stages, the helicopters appeared to draw close together, separate in different directions and regroup in formation. The changing patterns held the audience’s attention as spectators followed the aircraft across the sky.
Among the most striking moments was the crossover manoeuvre, in which helicopters passed across one another’s flight paths with carefully maintained separation. The sequence demonstrated the concentration and coordination required of every pilot.
“Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya” Rings Out from the Cockpit
A particularly memorable moment came when Group Captain Abhijit Kumar greeted the audience from his helicopter’s cockpit with the popular expression, “Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya”.
The greeting drew an enthusiastic response, connecting the aerial performance with the state’s language, identity and celebratory spirit.
Delivered during the Statehood Day programme, the message added a personal touch to the display and heightened the excitement among spectators gathered at the lakefront.
Tricolour Finale Celebrates National Pride
Spectators watch and record the Indian Air Force’s aerial display at Sendh Lake in Nava Raipur during Chhattisgarh’s Statehood Day celebrations on Monday, November 2, 2026. Photo: channel24india.com via CG/DPR
The concluding segment brought together coordinated helicopter formations, tricolour smoke trails and “Vande Mataram”.
Saffron, white and green streaks spread across the sky as the aircraft completed their final sequences, bringing the programme to a stirring close.
The event offered spectators an opportunity to see the IAF’s flying skills and operational capabilities at close quarters while celebrating Chhattisgarh’s foundation.
The official release also highlighted Sarang’s international performances, including appearances in Germany, the United Kingdom, Mauritius, Russia and Egypt, describing the team as an ambassador of the IAF’s professionalism and training.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, MPs, MLAs, representatives of boards and corporations, and a large gathering of spectators attended the programme.
