Narendra Modi attended the Indian Air Force’s aerial display at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on Sunday, October 25, 2026, as part of the celebrations of the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. Wings Over Ganges was a military aircraft and aerobatic teams flying above the Ganga (Namo Ghat) and a place for a perfect view of the Indian Air Force's flying capabilities.
The three-day programme was organised on October 22, 24 and 25 and the last display was scheduled for Sunday. The event was integrated with military aviation and public participation and the historical setting of Varanasi.
Wings Over Ganges marks the IAF’s 94th anniversary.
The aerial display was part of Indian Air Force’s anniversary celebrations and brought the event to Varanasi for a show on one of the most recognizable riverfronts in the country.
Namo Ghat was the central site; crowds gathered at locations along the river to watch the aircraft manoeuvres. The programme combined military aviation with the historical setting of Varanasi, and this program highlighted the force's operational capabilities and display teams.
The Air Force's role in national defence and the need for coordination among India's armed forces were also mentioned in the event.
Tejas, Rafale and Sukhoi aircraft feature
The aircraft lineup included some of the well-known platforms operated by the Indian Air Force such as the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Rafale, Sukhoi-30MKI, Mirage 2000, MiG-29 and Jaguar.
The Light Combat Helicopter Prachand was also present alongside transport and support platforms. Aircraft from the Indian Army and Navy were also included in the programme, showing coordination between the three services.
The combination of fighter jets, helicopters and other aircraft demonstrated different aspects of military aviation from manoeuvrability and formation flying to transport and operational support.
Surya Kiran and Sarang Add to the Spectacle
Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team was one of the main attractions of the event. Its aircraft flew together over the Ganga with synchronised manoeuvres and added colour and movement to the aerial display.
The Sarang Helicopter Display Team was also included in the programme. The team was known for its coordinated helicopter manoeuvres and it complemented the fixed-wing aircraft displays.
The performances gave the audience a chance to see precise flying and synchronized manoeuvres on the backdrop of Varanasi’s riverfront.
#WATCH | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to witness the Air Force Day Aerial Display-2026 at Namo Ghat in Varanasi. The programme will commemorate the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force and will be held under the theme “Wings over Ganges”. (Source: DD News)
— ANI (@ANI) October 25, 2026
PM Modi’s visit to Varanasi
Modi attended as part of his visit to Varanasi on October 25. His presence was announced a couple of days before the final aerial display, when the Prime Minister was due to be chief guest.
The visit also saw the inauguration of a garment manufacturing facility of Arvind Limited in Mirzamurad. The facility would be beneficial for manufacturing and employment in the region.
National and state leaders added an official dimension to the anniversary programme, which brought together military personnel, local authorities and members of the public.
Varanasi hosts a major aviation showcase.
In bringing the aerial display to the Ganga, the Indian Air Force combined a public aviation event with the cultural environment of Varanasi. The programme also continued the practice of holding anniversary flying displays in cities outside the National Capital Region.
The aircraft, pilots and specialist teams in the display were highlighted in the show. It also showed the public the Indian Air Force's capabilities.
Wings Over Ganges was another public showcase of Indian military aviation as the Air Force celebrated its 94th anniversary, bringing aviation, national defence and Varanasi’s distinctive riverfront setting together.
Comments