Raipur, Nov 2 The Indian Air Force’s famed Sarang Helicopter Display Team, along with the Akash Ganga skydiving unit and Garud commandos, enthralled thousands of spectators during an air show held as part of the ongoing Chhattisgarh Rajat Mahotsav, the statehood celebrations.
Governor Ramen Deka attended the air show, during which these teams showcased their skills through daring stunts, precision manoeuvres and coordinated performances.
The aerobatic display began with members of the Akash Ganga team demonstrating their parachuting skills with remarkable control, balance and precision.
Later, a slithering demonstration from an Mi-17 helicopter, with personnel descending on ropes from the hovering aircraft to reach designated spots, was showcased. The Garud commandos then staged a simulated rescue and combat operation near the lake, demonstrating their ability to respond swiftly and carry out missions in challenging conditions.
The Sarang team, comprising five helicopters and led by Group Captain Abhijit Kumar, performed a series of formations and aerobatic manoeuvres over Nava Raipur.
The helicopters flew in close formations, separated in different directions and regrouped in coordinated patterns. A crossover manoeuvre, in which the aircraft passed very close to each other, was among the highlights of the show.
During the display, Group Captain Kumar greeted people from the cockpit with the popular Chhattisgarhi phrase “Chhattisgarhiya sabse badhiya”.
The performance concluded with the five helicopters forming the Tricolour in the sky to the strains of “Vande Mataram”.
Thousands of spectators gathered around Sendh Lake to witness the spectacle, while long queues of vehicles were seen on roads.
Praising the IAF personnel, Governor Deka said the performance by the renowned Sarang team on the state’s foundation day celebrations is a matter of pride and joy for the people of Chhattisgarh, according to an official statement.
He said the courage, discipline, confidence and coordination displayed by the air warriors are an inspiration for citizens, particularly the youth.
The event was not merely a display of thrilling aerial manoeuvres but also showcased the IAF’s capabilities, rigorous training, dedication and spirit of service to the nation, he added.
Deka greeted people on the Chhattisgarh Foundation Day and expressed hope that the state would continue to achieve new heights of development and prosperity.
He said “Sarang” means peacock and, just as the bird symbolises India’s distinct identity and beauty, the team represents the IAF’s skill, discipline and professional excellence.
The governor noted that the formations and manoeuvres, though appearing effortless, required extensive planning, continuous practice, concentration and exceptional coordination.
The three-day Rajyotsav celebration this year is being held from November 1.
On Sunday, the Sarang team conducted a full-dress rehearsal of the air show at the same spot, which was attended by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
The Sarang team is the world’s only five-helicopter aerobatic display team, the statement said. It has performed more than 1,500 aerial shows in several countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, Mauritius, Russia and Egypt, showcasing the IAF’s precision, discipline and flying skills.
(PTI News)
