Rafale, Chinook Dazzle Spectators with Thrilling Aerial Manoeuvres Over Varanasi’s Ganga
Indian Air Force showcases fighter jets, helicopters and aerobatic formations over the Ganga as security is strengthened ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit.
VARANASI, Oct 24: Spectators gathered along the banks of the Ganga on Saturday to witness spectacular aerial manoeuvres by Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Tejas and Mirage 2000 fighter jets during the Indian Air Force’s ‘Wings Over Ganga’ air show at Namo Ghat in Varanasi.
Organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), the three-day event is scheduled for October 22, 24 and 25. The programme was suspended on October 23 due to polling for the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council elections, officials said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are scheduled to attend the concluding day of the event on Sunday.
Authorities have strengthened security arrangements ahead of the prime minister’s visit. According to police officials, Varanasi has been divided into 32 zones, 50 sectors and 80 sub-sectors, with approximately 11,900 security personnel deployed to maintain law and order.
The air show features 100 aircraft, comprising 52 fighter jets, 15 transport aircraft, 32 helicopters and one heritage aircraft. The powerful Chinook helicopter and performances by the Surya Kiran aerobatic team have emerged as major attractions.
The opening-day programme on October 22 drew large crowds to both banks of the river, where spectators watched the aircraft formations against the backdrop of the historic city.
Highlights included the Kashi formation performed by Kiran aircraft, a tricolour display by Mi-17 helicopters in an ‘Omkar’ formation, and a joint aerial presentation involving helicopters from all three branches of the armed forces. The performances offered a glimpse of India’s aviation capabilities and the coordination among its military services.
Squadron Leader Ankita Singh, a member of the Sarang helicopter display team, described participation in the event as a matter of pride.
She said Sarang is Asia’s only five-helicopter display team and operates Advanced Light Helicopters manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
According to Singh, the team’s performances demonstrate the Indian Air Force’s professional expertise, precision and coordination, while also highlighting the potential of indigenous aviation technology.
She added that the team seeks to do more than entertain audiences through aerial displays, aiming also to motivate young people to explore careers in the armed forces.
Squadron Leader Gautam Tyagi said performing over Kashi during the IAF’s 94th anniversary celebrations was a privilege. He encouraged young people to pursue their ambitions with determination, set clear goals and maintain their commitment to serving the nation.
Tyagi also said the sequence of aerial manoeuvres would remain broadly similar to the performances presented during the earlier shows.
The concluding programme on Sunday is expected to draw further public attention as the celebrations combine aerial demonstrations, military aviation displays and a tribute to the Indian Air Force’s legacy.
