The purpose of the gallery is to educate visitors about these national heroes of India who displayed indomitable resolve and courage in defending the motherland. It is an initiative to honor the memory of these brave warriors who did not hesitate to sacrifice their lives in the line of duty.
Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President of India’s official residence, is a magnificent building constructed during British rule. The corridors where this Param Vir Gallery has been created previously displayed portraits of British auxiliary officers.
An official press release stated, “This initiative to display portraits of Indian national heroes is a significant step towards shedding the colonial mindset and proudly embracing India’s rich culture, heritage, and timeless traditions.”
The Param Vir Chakra is India’s highest military honor awarded for the most conspicuous act of bravery in the presence of the enemy. This medal was instituted on January 26, 1950.
Vijay Diwas:
The Indian armed forces celebrate Vijay Diwas ( victory day) on December 16, and on this occasion, various military units across the country remember the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the war fought against Pakistan in December 1971. In this war, Pakistan suffered a crushing defeat, and its army was forced to surrender. Approximately 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, under the command of General Niazi, surrendered on this day. This was the largest military surrender in the world since World War II.
Formation of Bangladesh :
The Indian armed forces played a crucial role in the formation of Bangladesh by assisting the Mukti Bahini (Bangladesh Liberation Army). This resulted in the division of Pakistan. What is now Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan before 1971. This region had become part of Pakistan during the partition of India under British rule in 1947, and the Bengali-speaking population had consistently opposed this arrangement.
