Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 23: ‘Tithwal Day’ commemorates liberation of Tangdhar Valley from Pakistani raiders on May 23, 1948 when the town of Tithwal was recaptured by the valiant Indian Army troops.
The battle saw two brave soldiers being awarded India’s highest gallantry award Paramveer Chakra (PVC) posthumously. When the Commander, Shakti Vijay Brigade recalled the various instances of the cooperation between locals and Army right from 1947-48 onwards, the 2000 strong locals acknowledged the same with a loud applause.
Tithwal is one amongt the several Model Villages in remote areas adopted by Army. The celebration of ‘Tithwal Day’ is an annual ritual in Tangdhar Bowl. The grand celebration this year spanned over ten days, in which several sports and social events including Cricket, Quiz, Volleyball, cultural competetions etc were orginised.
On May 23, a gala event was organised by all units of ‘Shakti Vijay Brigade’ at Tangdhar. The social events commenced with wreath laying at the War Memorial to honour the martyrs of the ‘Battle of Tithwal’, followed by hoisting of the National Flag. Reciting of the National Anthem by all locals present, stirred up patriotic emotions.
The games, cultural events and the colourful display by school children enthralled the audience. The show by Army dogs invited huge applause from the locals. Tug of war competition saw enthusiastic participation from old and young demonstrating the competitive spirit. Shot-Put found its way to the list of competitions for the first time. Finally ‘Gatka’ a local martial arts was show cased in front of the cheering people.
The immaculate and scintillating performance by the Pahari Cultural Club demonstrated the rich cultural traditions of Tangdhar.
The parents felt proud of their kids when their little ones were given prizes by the chief guest amidst loud cheering and clapping. Locals told while expressing their views that ‘Tithwal Day’ celebration is one big annual opportunity for them to showcase their talent.
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