Key Highlights
- Two more shows: After the October 22 display, the IAF’s ‘Wings Over Ganges’ air show returns on October 24 and concludes on October 25 at Namo Ghat.
- 94th anniversary celebration: The event marks the Indian Air Force’s 94th anniversary, showcasing synchronised formations and high-speed manoeuvres.
- VVIP presence: PM Narendra Modi is expected at the October 25 show, with CM Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expected.
- Massive security cover: Around 11,900 police personnel, along with PAC, NDRF, SDRF, bomb disposal squads and ATS, have been deployed.
- Preparations reviewed: CM Yogi inspected arrangements at Namo Ghat on October 14 and ordered stronger arrangements at other major ghats.
Varanasi is set for a weekend where faith, heritage and military might share the same skyline. The Indian Air Force’s ‘Wings Over Ganges’ air show is returning to Namo Ghat on Saturday, October 24, with the final display scheduled for Sunday, October 25.
The IAF’s Central Air Command announced the two-day programme in a post on X, writing, “Wings Over Ganges — The spectacle continues!” It described the event as a confluence of India’s cultural heritage, national pride and the spirit of the Indian Air Force, inviting people to witness the skill of its air warriors against the backdrop of the Ganga.
For those who missed the first display on October 22, the two additional days offer another chance to catch the show.
Celebrating 94 Years of the Indian Air Force
The air show has been organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. It highlights the force’s operational capabilities, technological strength and flying skills through synchronised aerial formations and high-speed manoeuvres meant to demonstrate precision and combat readiness.
Why It Matters: Bringing the Air Force to the People
Air shows of this scale are usually tied to air bases or major metro venues. Staging one over the Ganga in Varanasi, one of India’s oldest living cities, gives the event a different character. It takes the IAF’s showcase beyond a defence audience and places it in front of pilgrims, tourists and local residents alike.
Such public displays also play a role in building awareness about the armed forces and can inspire young spectators to consider careers in military aviation.
PM Modi Expected on October 25
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, is expected to attend the October 25 programme at Namo Ghat. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are also expected to be present, according to reports.
The anticipated high-profile attendance has led to extensive preparations by the state administration and security agencies.
11,900 Police Personnel on Duty
Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal said around 11,900 police personnel have been deployed for the event. Teams from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), bomb disposal squads and the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) are also part of the security setup.
Authorities have put in place comprehensive arrangements for traffic management, medical emergencies and crowd control to handle the expected rush of spectators.
CM Yogi Reviewed Preparations Earlier
On October 14, CM Yogi Adityanath visited Namo Ghat to review preparations for the air show and the Prime Minister’s proposed visit. The Police Commissioner, District Magistrate and Army officials briefed him on the arrangements using project maps.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure robust security, effective crowd management and smooth logistics, and asked them to strengthen arrangements at other major ghats along the Ganga as well.
What Comes Next
With Saturday’s display underway and the grand finale on Sunday, all eyes are on Namo Ghat. If the arrangements hold up under the expected crowds, ‘Wings Over Ganges’ could set a template for bringing large-scale defence showcases to culturally significant public spaces across the country.