Shaurya Vedanam Festival

• 12 Mar 2025

Why in News? 

The first Shaurya Vednam festival was organized in Motihari, East Champaran district of Bihar on 7-8 March 2025 . 

Key Points 

• About the festival:  
  • Objective: 
    • The aim of this festival was to showcase the military might of the Indian Armed Forces and to make the youth and common citizens aware and inspire them towards the defence forces. 
  • Events and Chief Guests 
    • The festival was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and East Champaran District Administration . 
    • The festival was inaugurated by Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan and the chief guests included Radha Mohan Singh (Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence), Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta and other senior officials. 
  • Military exhibits and attractions: 
    • The event showcased modern military technologies and equipment of the Army, Navy and Air Force , which included: 
      • The Indian Army showcased advanced equipment like the K-9 Vajra gun, T-90 Bhishma tank, Swati radar and BMP combat vehicle . 
      • The Navy displayed models of submarines, destroyers and aircraft carriers , providing a comprehensive demonstration of naval power. 
      • The Indian Air Force showcased its might through a flypast and display of fighter jets and helicopters . 

 Motihari 

• Motihari is an important historical town in East Champaran district of Bihar.  
• It is the headquarters of East Champaran district, located on the Nepal border. 
• According to legend, Motihari was named after two men, Moti Singh and Hari Singh . 
• It is the birthplace of the famous writer George Orwell and has been the main centre of Mahatma Gandhi's Champaran Satyagraha . 
• Scenic Spots: 
  • Kesaria Buddhist Stupa: Located in Kesaria, it is one of the tallest Buddhist stupas in the world. 
  • Ashoka Pillar: This 36½ feet high pillar located in Lauriya village was installed by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC. It is also known as " Sthamb Dharma Lekh".