Army’s Azmat-e-Hind Emerges as a Symbol of Unity, Drawing Thousands Fueled by Patriotism and Peace
Suhail Khan
Tangdar, April 15: Once echoing with gunfire, the village of Tethwal along Kashmir’s Line of Control (LOC) is no longer a conflict headline but now resonates with laughter and national pride, thanks to the Indian Army’s initiative, Azmat-e-Hind.
The site, home to a towering 104-foot-tall National Flag and the Azmat-e-Hind war memorial, has become a pilgrimage destination for patriots, travelers, and history enthusiasts, bridging India’s valiant past with its hopeful future.
The tricolor, visible for miles across the rugged terrain, flies at a location where Indian soldiers etched tales of bravery during three wars with Pakistan. Today, visitors stand beside jawans, sharing salutes and stories.
Sandiya Patel, a tourist from Gujarat, told Kashmir Despatch during her visit, “It’s a heartwarming feeling to be at India’s first village before the border, where sorrows melt into pride.” She added, “Every Indian must experience this once in their lifetime.”
“This flag isn’t just a piece of cloth—it’s a testament to our resilience. Standing here today, seeing families smile—it’s a dream come true,” shared Akram, another tourist who visited the Tangdar valley with his family.
The influx of tourists has revitalized Tethwal’s economy. “Before Azmat-e-Hind, our youth would migrate for work. Now, homestays and souvenir shops flourish,” said Tariq Ahmed, a village elder. He stated, “We’re no longer a conflict headline—we’re a destination.”
Locals now guide tours, sharing stories of heroism etched in the Azmat-e-Hind memorial, which honors fallen soldiers. Ahmed further mentioned, “Every salute to this flag renews our pledge to peace.” The site’s interactive exhibits and soldier-led tours foster profound connections, with visitors often leaving handwritten notes of gratitude for the troops.
Families like the Mehtas from Mumbai are drawn to Tethwal’s transformative energy. “I brought my children here to learn that borders aren’t just lines on maps—they’re guarded by real heroes,” said Anjali Mehta, her voice trembling as she spoke to Kashmir Despatch. “This place makes you believe in India’s unbreakable spirit.”
Locals, in a conversation with Kashmir Despatch, described Azmat-e-Hind as more than a destination: “It’s where India’s heart beats loudest.”
“Dilli ab door nahi (Delhi isn’t far now),” grinned a local tea vendor, quoting a popular visitor’s phrase. “Now, all roads lead to Tethwal,” he added.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
