Srinagar 01 November (KNB): Machhal Mela, an annual event organised by Indian Army, celebrates the Army-Awaam camaraderie and bonhomie and was organised this year on 30 Oct 2021, as per official.
A handout said that the highlights of the Mela this year was the inauguration of a 150 feet long bridge constructed by GREF which will join nine villages of Machhal to Kupwara. The bridge was named as Captain Ashutosh bridge in the loving memory of the brave heart who made the supreme sacrifice on 08 Nov 2020 in an anti militancy operation in the sector. He was awarded Shaurya Chakra posthumously by the grateful nation on 15 Aug 2021.
Another highlight of the mela was the dedication to Nation of 140 feet high National Flag which is one of the largest in the country and largest National Flag in the valley. The National flag is 56 feet long and 37 feet wide.
It further said that a Smriti Sthal dedicated to the fallen soldiers of 56 RR (MARATHA LI) named Maratha Smriti Sthal was also inaugurated. The Smriti Sthal has been designed to depict one of the greatest forts of Shivaji Maharaj, i.e. Raigad fort. The wall of the Smrithi Sthal has been engraved with the names of 32 warriors of 56 RR (MARATHA LI) who have made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The layout of the memorial comprises 14 feet stone wall, bust of Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a pool of water surrounding the bust and four constantly lit lamps.
“Today’s Machhal Mela culminated after a series of events that started around two months ago. Cricket, Volleyball, Pony race and drawing competitions were held. People took active part with full zeal and enthusiasm. In today’s final performance, local NCC cadets marched smartly in front of the crowd. Kupwara dance group and children of local schools presented a number of dance and cultural events. A number of competitions for children including Lemon race and Jalebi race were also conducted. Maj Gen VMB Krishnan, YSM, General Officer Commanding 28 Inf Div was the chief guest for the event. A number of Army and civil dignitaries along with members of civil society were also present,” the statement said. (KNB)