Lanterns dedicated to fallen soldiers lit up in Varanasi

People from all walks of life gathered on the banks of River Ganges in Varanasi to observe Akashdeep (skylight) to commemorate soldier deaths by hoisting lit lanterns.

Serving and retired personnel of defence and paramilitary forces joined hands with the residents to mark this ritual which is observed in the Hindu month of Karthik every year.

The lanterns would be lit throughout the month to honour soldiers, who laid down their lives in service of motherland since independence in 1947.

Army Officer, Brigadier Virendra Singh, hoped that it would inspire people for the service to the motherlands.

"It is observed in memory of martyrs. We should serve the country, take inspiration from their sacrifice and pay homage to the soldiers," said Singh.

The ritual dates back to the ancient rimes, when it was observed to honour the sacrifices of the dead soldiers in the epic Mahabharata war. But it was rekindled in Varanasi after 1999 war with Pakistan.

"The Ganga service group brought all the wings of the army together after 1999 Kargil war to pay homage to the soldiers," added an organiser, Sushant Mishra.

Following the lamp lighting ceremony, a cultural programme was also organised.