Five helicopters perform breathtaking formations at Sendh Lake during Rajyotsav rehearsal; Akashganga skydivers and Garud Commandos showcase daring skills, with main display scheduled for November 2
TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 1, 2026: The skies over Naya Raipur turned into a spectacular arena of aerial skill and patriotism on Sunday as the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Sarang helicopter display team conducted a full-dress rehearsal at Sendh Lake ahead of its main performance on November 2, as part of Chhattisgarh’s Foundation Day celebrations.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai witnessed the rehearsal, which featured daring performances by the IAF’s Akashganga skydiving team, Garud Commandos and the five-helicopter Sarang aerobatic team. The spectacular formations, precision flying and coordinated manoeuvres drew enthusiastic applause from the audience.
The event reached a patriotic crescendo with a Tricolour formation in the sky accompanied by the strains of ‘Vande Mataram’. Adding a special touch to the celebrations, Group Captain Abhijit Kumar greeted the people of Chhattisgarh from the cockpit with the popular slogan, “Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya”.
Praising the performance, Chief Minister Sai described the Sarang team’s display as an outstanding example of discipline, mutual trust, teamwork and professional excellence. He said the pilots’ courage, confidence and precise coordination were an inspiration, particularly for the younger generation.
The Chief Minister observed that the spectacular manoeuvres were not merely displays of aerial skill but reflected the IAF’s rigorous training, meticulous planning, dedication and commitment to national service. He also extended Foundation Day greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh, expressing hope that the state would continue to achieve new milestones in development and prosperity.
Akashganga skydivers demonstrate precision and courage
The aerial programme began with a performance by the IAF’s Akashganga skydiving team. The skydivers jumped from aircraft and demonstrated remarkable control over their parachutes, adjusting their direction and speed to land accurately at the designated spot near Sendh Lake.
Their controlled descent and precise landings drew loud applause from spectators, offering a glimpse of the physical fitness, mental strength and specialised training required for such operations.
Garud Commandos showcase operational skills
The Garud Commandos followed with a demonstration of specialised operational capabilities. Personnel descended from a hovering Mi-17 helicopter using ropes in a manoeuvre known as slithering or fast-roping.
After reaching the ground, they carried out a simulated rescue and combat operation, demonstrating their ability to respond swiftly and operate in challenging conditions. The commandos later saluted the dignitaries, drawing appreciation from the audience.
Five Sarang helicopters deliver breathtaking formations
The main attraction was the performance by the Sarang helicopter display team, led by Group Captain Abhijit Kumar. Its five helicopters executed a series of intricate formations and daring aerial manoeuvres, demonstrating exceptional precision and coordination.
The helicopters flew in close formations, separated in different directions and regrouped seamlessly. Particularly thrilling were the crossover manoeuvres, in which the aircraft passed one another at close quarters before returning to their designated formations.
The display highlighted the pilots’ concentration, technical expertise and ability to maintain precise coordination during complex manoeuvres. The audience responded with repeated cheers and applause.
The team also acknowledged the occasion with a greeting from the cockpit, as the slogan “Chhattisgarhiya Sable Badhiya” echoed across the venue. The final Tricolour formation, accompanied by ‘Vande Mataram’, added to the patriotic atmosphere.
Sarang team has represented India on international platforms
The Sarang team is known for its distinctive five-helicopter aerobatic formations and has represented India at several international events, including air shows in Germany, the United Kingdom, Mauritius, Russia and Egypt. Its performances showcase the Indian Air Force’s flying capabilities, technical expertise and professional standards.
Chief Minister Sai said the team’s presence in Naya Raipur during the Foundation Day celebrations was a matter of pride for the state.
The full-dress rehearsal was held ahead of the main Sarang aerial display scheduled for November 2 at Sendh Lake. The event is expected to be one of the major attractions of the three-day Rajyotsav celebrations.
