Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: The skies above the Ganga reverberated with the roar of fighter jets on Sunday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi watched the Indian Air Force’s aerial display at Namo Ghat, where the three-day event ‘Wings Over Ganges’ concluded with a series of flying demonstrations.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accompanied Modi at the show, organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Lasting more than an hour, the event featured fighter aircraft, helicopters and specialised aerobatic teams showcasing their flying skills over the riverfront. The Sukhoi-30 MKI, indigenous Tejas and Light Combat Helicopter Prachand were among the aircraft featured in the displays, according to IAF officials.
Tricolour formations draw cheers from spectators
One of the major attractions was the ‘Kashi formation’, in which three Kiran aircraft flew in a V-shaped formation, creating a display inspired by the colours of the national flag. The manoeuvre drew enthusiastic responses from the audience.
Mi-17 helicopters carrying the Tricolour also took part in the ‘Omkar formation’, adding another visual highlight to the programme.
The broader display included aircraft such as the Rafale, Mirage 2000, MiG-29 and Jaguar, alongside transport aircraft and helicopters. The Surya Kiran aerobatic team demonstrated tightly coordinated manoeuvres, while the Sarang helicopter team performed aerial stunts for the gathering.
The combination of the Ganga and Varanasi’s historic ghats with military aircraft performing overhead gave the event a distinctive setting. Spectators waved national flags, while slogans including “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” rang out across the venue.
Crowds gather to welcome the Prime Minister
Modi’s visit also attracted large crowds along the route from Police Lines to Namo Ghat. BJP workers and local residents welcomed him with rose petals, traditional music and cultural performances at several designated locations.
People raised slogans of “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Shri Ram” as the Prime Minister acknowledged the gathering from his vehicle.
For many spectators, the display offered an opportunity to see the Air Force’s aircraft and specialised teams up close. Divakar Singh, who attended the event, described the occasion as a source of pride for Varanasi, saying the combination of the city’s spiritual setting and the aerial demonstrations made it memorable.
Another attendee, Govind Pandey, said it was his first experience of an air show on such a scale. He added that witnessing the display could encourage young people to consider a career in the Air Force.
Garment unit inaugurated earlier in the day
Before attending the air show, Modi inaugurated a new garment manufacturing facility operated by Arvind Ltd in the Mirzamurad area of Varanasi.
Officials said the unit is intended to support industrial growth and strengthen the country’s textile and garment manufacturing sector. The facility is expected to create employment opportunities, particularly for women, and connect locally manufactured garments with international markets.
During the visit, Modi also interacted with around 300 women.
The Prime Minister arrived in Varanasi on Sunday morning, travelling by helicopter to Mirzamurad for the inauguration before proceeding to Police Lines and then Namo Ghat for the concluding day of the IAF’s aerial showcase.
