Duo pay unique tribute to soldiers

Two friends have found a unique way to pay tribute to Indian soldiers for their sacrifices.

Commodore Joginder Chandana of the Indian Navy and his friend Meenal Kotak, a city-based chartered accountant, have been running 21.1 kilometres daily for the last 43 days to raise awareness about the soldiers who stand guard at the borders.

Their initiative has been named ‘Navy Day to Army Day — Run for the Indian Soldier’ as their marathon started on December 4 — commemorated as Navy Day — and will conclude on Army Day this Sunday.

“It is our way of paying homage to those in the armed forces who are willing to sacrifice their lives for the people who do not even acknowledge their efforts. Starting from Navy Day and going on till Army Day, we will run half a marathon daily. This is the least we can do for the people in the armed forces,” Kotak said.

Beginning from SP Marg, the duo cover embassies in Chanakyapuri, the landmark India Gate, and Race Course Road, before finally heading to the Taj Hotel in south-west Delhi.

“Some things in life are intangible. Citizens do not need to give financial support to our soldiers as it is the government’s job. In any case, a soldier cannot be repaid by our ‘armchair patriotism’. What they deserve is our love and respect, not only when there is a war, but at other times as well,” said Chandana, currently posted in Delhi.

Even when they are out of station, they do not give their daily run a miss. Kotal said: “When we are not in Delhi for professional reasons, we still keep our mission alive. We can take out a few hours for our soldiers who make our lives safe and secure.”

Added Chandana: “We cannot repay a soldier for his sacrifices, but we can make him feel the worth of his sacrifice. We should make him feel that the people he protects are responsible citizens, who shall do their bit for the country, citizens for whom he can give up his life with pride. Just support the soldiers through your thoughts and actions, and, of course, by being a better citizen.”

Chandana was also part of the Great India Run, India’s first multi-city marathon that was flagged off at the iconic Amar Jawan Jyoti in India Gate in July 2016. The 1,480-km run features 15 of the best ultra-marathoners from across the world.

The duo earlier came together to run full marathons for 10 consecutive days to feed poor children. Chandana and Kotak have titled the event Miles into Smiles and ran from March 25 to April 3 in 2016 for the cause.