Wings Over Ganga: IAF's 94th anniversary air show lights up Varanasi skies
Synopsis
The IAF is marking its 94th anniversary not at an airbase but over the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi — with Asia's only five-helicopter display team, nearly 12,000 security personnel on the ground, and a direct appeal to India's youth to dream bigger. It is a statement of both military capability and indigenisation, with the HAL-built Dhruv helicopter at its heart.
Key Takeaways
The IAF 'Wings Over Ganga' air show is underway at Namo Ghat, Varanasi , running from 24 to 25 October 2026 .
The event marks the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force.
The Sarang team is the only five-helicopter display team in Asia , flying the indigenously built Dhruv ALH by HAL .
Approximately 11,900 police personnel have been deployed for security, including NDRF, SDRF, ATS , and the Bomb Disposal Squad .
CM Yogi Adityanath reviewed preparations at Namo Ghat on 14 October , ahead of a proposed Prime Ministerial visit.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) air show 'Wings Over Ganga' is underway at Namo Ghat, Varanasi, drawing large crowds as officers and pilots urge India's youth to seek inspiration from the display of aerial excellence marking the force's 94th anniversary. The event runs through 25 October 2026.
Sarang Team Takes Centre Stage
Squadron Leader Gautam Tyagi, a member of the celebrated Sarang aerobatic helicopter display team, said the event was a privilege for the IAF to celebrate its Air Force Day over the skies of Kashi. 'I urge everyone to come in large numbers, watch the show, and draw inspiration. Seeing our hard work, I hope you, too, are encouraged to pursue something new in your own lives,' he said. Tyagi confirmed that the team maintained the same high performance standards across all days of the show, with no changes to the routine.
Squadron Leader Ankita Singh noted that the Sarang team holds the distinction of being the only five-helicopter display team in Asia. The team flies the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) — an indigenously developed platform. 'Flying the Dhruv, we demonstrate the professional capabilities and teamwork of the Indian Air Force, while also highlighting the success of an indigenous platform developed right here in India,' she said. Singh added that the team hopes to inspire more young Indians to consider a career in the IAF.
What the Show Features
The air show spotlights the IAF's operational capabilities, technical strength, and exceptional flying skills through synchronised aerial stunts and high-speed tactical manoeuvres. It was organised in Varanasi specifically to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force, connecting a landmark military occasion with one of the country's most historically significant cities.
Notably, the choice of Namo Ghat — a landmark on the banks of the Ganga — as the venue lends the event a distinctive visual and cultural backdrop, setting it apart from routine air force displays at airbase tarmacs.
Security and Ground Arrangements
Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal stated that approximately 11,900 police personnel have been deployed for the event. The security apparatus includes personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Bomb Disposal Squad, and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS).
Political Attention and High-Level Review
Ahead of the show, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Namo Ghat on 14 October to review preparations, including for a proposed visit by the Prime Minister. The Police Commissioner, the District Magistrate, and Army personnel briefed the Chief Minister on arrangements using project maps.
What's Next
The final day of performances is scheduled for 25 October, when the Sarang team and other display units are expected to deliver their closing routines. The event is anticipated to conclude with the same high standards that have defined the show's run.
Point of View
At a moment when HAL's production pace and order books are under scrutiny. The 11,900-strong security deployment, combined with a CM-level review and a proposed Prime Ministerial visit, signals this is as much a political occasion as a military one. The risk is that such spectacle-first framing can crowd out sober assessments of where the IAF's capability gaps actually lie.
NationPress
24 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 'Wings Over Ganga' air show?
'Wings Over Ganga' is an Indian Air Force air show held at Namo Ghat in Varanasi to mark the IAF's 94th anniversary. It features synchronised aerial stunts, high-speed tactical manoeuvres, and a performance by the Sarang helicopter display team, and runs from 24 to 25 October 2026.
Who is the Sarang team and why are they significant?
The Sarang team is the IAF's aerobatic helicopter display unit and the only five-helicopter display team in Asia. It flies the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), an indigenously developed platform manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Where is the 'Wings Over Ganga' air show taking place?
The air show is being held at Namo Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The venue on the banks of the Ganga gives the event a distinctive cultural backdrop distinct from conventional airbase venues.
How many security personnel have been deployed for the event?
Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal confirmed the deployment of approximately 11,900 police personnel, supplemented by personnel from the PAC, NDRF, SDRF, Bomb Disposal Squad, and the Anti-Terrorism Squad.
Did any political leaders attend the preparations for the air show?
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Namo Ghat on 14 October to review preparations for the air show and a proposed visit by the Prime Minister. He was briefed by the Police Commissioner, the District Magistrate, and Army personnel using project maps.
