Lam Border Mela: Organised to commemorate Infantry Day & Shaheed Garh Diwas

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 
SHYAM SOOD

RAJOURI  OCTOBER 27:–Shaheed Garh (Qila Darhal) situated in the Lam area of the Nowshera sub-district of Rajouri district is an epitome of sacrifice patriotism and nationalistic fervour which serves as a guiding beacon for the younger generations of the region to draw inspiration from.
During the 1947-48 war with Pakistan, the enemy (raiders) captured Rajouri and reached Nowshera. Brave civilians at village Darhal repulsed enemy’s many attacks from 4th September to 28th October 1947, till the arrival of the Indian Army.
On October 28, heavy causalities were inflicted on the enemy during an ensued battle near Qila Darhal (Fort). During this action many locals, including Sohan Singh, Jathedar Ram Singh, Hukam Singh, Pritam Singh, & Suchan Singh sacrificed their lives for the country.
Later the Fort became an integral part of the sacrifices made to preserve Independence & since then 28th October is celebrated as Qila Darhal Defense Day.
To commemorate the supreme sacrifices made by villagers and army personnel, Shaheed Garh (Qila Darhal) War memorial has been made at some distance from Fort.
Every year the locals and descendants of the brave hearts gather at Shaheed Garh war memorial to commemorate the sacrifices of their forefathers.
These brave hearts beat back numerous attacks on their motherland and stopped the advance of Pakistani raiders till the Indian Army under Brig Mohd Usman arrived for the defense of Nowshera on 28 October 1947.
In an effort to celebrate the valour of these brave civilians and also the Indian Army, Tain Rashtriya Rifles (RR) spearheaded an initiative known as Lam Border Mela which offers a unique blend of traditional culture and commerce to the region.
The event commenced with a solemn wreath laying ceremony at Shaheed Garh War Memorial.
The Mela provided a platform for the school children to showcase their talent and express their cultural heritage through music and dance.
The event also included martial performances of Gataka and Kalaripattu which captivated the audience with their grace and power.
With a remarkable endeavour of not only honouring the brave but also building a brighter future, this Mela provided a significant platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase and expand the market for their products.
“ This opportunity for small scale community businesses and entrepreneurs will not only boost the local economy but also promote self-reliance and empower the people of Lam. This acts as a bridge between the showcased skill set and the wider world connecting them with potential customers” the Army said.
“Celebrating our history and heritage, the Mela transforms Lam into a tourist spot inviting visitors to discover the cultural and natural treasures of the region This pioneering initiative is a beacon of hope for the region as it aptly highlights the involvement of the Indian Army as a prominent pillar and a much-needed catalyst for socio-economic development of the local community of the region” the Army added