1971 War Victory Flame reaches Tirunelveli: Know its significance

The symbol of India’s triumph over Pakistan in the 1971 war, the War Flame, reached the Indian Naval Station (INS) Kattabomman near Tirunelveli on Sunday. It was received with the ceremonial guard of honour held to mark the occasion. Station Commander Captain Aashish K Sharma along with defence personnel, civil administration and veterans received the flame. 

Also read: Monsoon Session from July 19 to August 1; unvaccinated MPs to undergo COVID test

A wreath-laying ceremony and two minutes of silence was observed to pay homage to the sacrifices made by the veterans, the Indian Navy tweeted. 

What does the Victory Flame signify?

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 completed its golden jubilee on December 16, 2020. The Victory Flame commemorates India’s victory in the war. 

Also read: Dilip Kumar once asked me not to pursue acting: Actor Naseeruddin Shah

Commemorating the Golden Jubilee celebrations in December 2020, Four Victory Flames were lit from the eternal flame of the National War Memorial and one each was being carried to the four cardinal directions through the cities and villages of 1971 war veterans and veernaris (war widows), the Indian Navy says. 

Last year, on December 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the heroes of the India-Pakistan war of 1971. He lit a victory torch at the National War Memorial in Delhi.

Also read: Lightning strike kills over 50 in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan

“On Vijay Diwas we recall the unwavering courage of our armed forces that resulted in a decisive victory for our nation in the 1971 war. On this special Vijay Diwas, had the honour of lighting the ‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ at the National War Memorial,” the prime minister tweeted.

Also read: Why planes, birds do not fly over Jagannath Puri Temple. Explained

After Tirunelveli, the Victory Flame would be taken to Kanyakumari in order to felicitate the veterans. It will also be taken to the houses of 1971 war heroes and the ones who sacrificed their lives during the war. After INS Kattabomman, the Victory Flame would be received by the Coast Guard in the presence of NCC cadets and later it would be handed over to INS Parundu.