16th December, 2016
The Kalinga Bharti Foundation (KBF), a dedicated NGO, has been at the forefront of various social and cultural initiatives. One of our most significant events is the "Saheedon Ko Salaam," a live show dedicated to honoring the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our nation. This event, first held on December 16, 2016, showcases KBF's commitment to paying tribute to our heroes and fostering a sense of patriotism and unity among the citizens of India.
A Tribute to the Bravehearts
"Saheedon Ko Salaam" was conceived as a tribute to the 21 brave soldiers, many of whom were poor and tribal, who laid down their lives during the Uri terror attack. This event was organized shortly after India's surgical strike against Pakistan, making it a poignant and timely tribute to our fallen heroes.
The inaugural event was graced by Sh. Dharmendra Pradhan, former Union Minister, as the Chief Guest. His presence and support added immense value to the event. The initiative was widely appreciated by the Governments of Haryana, India, and Odisha, highlighting the significance of honoring our soldiers.
Live Dance and Drama Performance
The "Saheedon Ko Salaam" event featured a live dance and drama performance by KBF family members. This artistic tribute narrated the stories of our brave soldiers, capturing the essence of their sacrifice and the valor with which they served our motherland. The performance was not only a tribute but also an educational experience, imparting the values of bravery and patriotism to the audience.
The event was organized with the support of the Rotary Club of Gurugram and was initially held at Rotary Public School. It was later staged at Rabindra Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, and the recorded performances were shown in other states to reach a wider audience. This widespread reach ensured that the stories of our brave soldiers were shared with children across the country, instilling a sense of national pride and respect for our armed forces.
One of the most touching aspects of the event was the participation of more than 16 families of the martyrs, who traveled from various states including Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan. Their presence added a deeply emotional and personal dimension to the event, reminding everyone of the real human cost of our security and freedom.
Dedication and Hard Work
The success of "Saheedon Ko Salaam" is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire KBF team. Organizing such a large-scale and emotionally charged event required meticulous planning and execution. The commitment of our team members to honor our heroes was evident in every aspect of the event, from the performances to the logistics.
Community Support
We are immensely grateful for the support of the Rotary Club of Gurugram and other organizations that contributed to the success of this event. Their support, both logistical and moral, was crucial in bringing this tribute to life. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Sh. Dharmendra Pradhan and the governments of Haryana, India, and Odisha for their recognition and encouragement.