The Jaipur Military Station buzzed with energy and excitement yesterday as it played host to the annual Bib Expo, a vibrant precursor to the much-anticipated Honour-Run scheduled for December 8. The event showcased a blend of martial prowess, aerial displays, and equestrian skills, offering attendees a day of unparalleled entertainment and inspiration.
Army personnel took center stage with captivating demonstrations of traditional martial arts, including Kalarippayattu and Gatka, highlighting the rich cultural heritage and disciplined training of the Indian Army. The audience was further enthralled by a paramotor display that painted the skies and exhilarating trick riding performances by the renowned 61 Cavalry, adding a thrilling dimension to the festivities.
The Expo was honored by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Madan Dilawar, Rajasthan’s Minister for Education and Panchayati Raj. Also in attendance were Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command; Barinder Jeet Kaur, Regional President of AWWA, Sapta Shakti Command; Ritu Gaur, General Manager of the State Bank of India; and Paralympian Dr. Deepa Malik, a celebrated Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee. These distinguished guests had the privilege of presenting the inaugural bibs to prominent runners, symbolizing the beginning of a journey of honor and athleticism.
Inspirational speeches resonated throughout the Expo, delivered by Paralympian Dr. Deepa Malik, Asian marathon champion Sunita Godara, Sangeeta Bishnoi, and para athlete Colonel Anuj Bindra. Their words of perseverance and dedication galvanized the audience, comprising senior Army officials, students from Army Public Schools, and NCC cadets, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and determination.
Looking ahead to the Honour-Run on December 8, participants can choose from a variety of categories tailored to different levels of endurance and enthusiasm. The run will feature 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km time-based races, alongside a 3 km fun run designed to encourage widespread participation. The event is set to be officially inaugurated by Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Minister for Industry and Commerce, IT and Communication, whose presence underscores the significance of the occasion.
Colonel Amitabh Sharma, a key organizer of the Expo, emphasized the dual objectives of the event: “Our aim is to honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of the Indian Army’s brave veterans while also promoting health awareness among the community. The Honour-Run is a testament to their unwavering dedication and a call to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle.”
As Jaipur gears up for the Honour-Run, the Bib Expo has successfully set the stage for a celebration that honors valor and fosters a spirit of athletic excellence. The convergence of military tradition, inspirational narratives, and community engagement promises to make the upcoming run a memorable and meaningful event for all participants.
