"Sampath Speaking" - the thoughts of an Insurer from Thiruvallikkeni: Bharatiya Vayu Sena

March, April, May are the real Summer months of Chennai or so one thought ! – it is October, yet, today was very hot. Standing in the Sun was oppressive, it was sweating profusely, no sea-breeze, yet thousands braved hot Sun and were enthralled by the awe-inspiring display of Bharatiya Vayu Sena, today at Marina from 11 am to 1 noon.

Commemorating, 92nd Air Force Day Celebrations — Seventy-two aircraft, ranging from the IAF’s oldest to its most modern fighter jets and helicopters, will take part in aerobatic displays and flypasts, on Sunday. Today it was a full rehearsal and it was so exciting to be standing in the Sun and watch IAF pilots display professionalism, speed, precision and might manoeuvering the magnificent machines.

It started with the Akash Ganga team, India’s premier military parachute display team, displayed exciting free-fall at speeds close to 200 kmph and landing on the sands of Marina. Looking at the aircraft at such a height was difficult, but the jumping commandos made it to the spot with precision and ease. The roaring sound of the LCA Tejas (the pride of indigenous power), Rafale (game changer), Sukhoi 30 MKI (the flanker that rules the sky), Jaguar, Mirage 2000 and Mig 29 – all provided unbounded enthusiasm and happiness to the Chennaities, gathered in large numbers on the Marina Beach to witness the final rehearsal of the dazzling air show organised by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

There were many a different types of Aircrafts, Helicopters and acrobatic display of Sarang helicopter team and the dazzling manoeuvres of Suryakiran team displaying various formations. The news release states that two-hour spectacle on October 6 will feature impressive aerial drills and demonstrations of India's air power. The grand finale on October 8 will mark the official Air Force Day celebrations, as the IAF continues to uphold its legacy of excellence and strength.

Come to Marina beach (near Vivekananda House) and witness this rare event of display of might of Bharatiya Vayu Sena. Here are some photos taken by me today.

With regards – S Sampathkumar
4.10.2024