‘Air Force Band Was Exceptional’: PM Modi Hails Op Sindoor Formation At Beating Retreat Ceremony

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised the Indian Air Force band’s performance at the Beating Retreat 2026 ceremony, calling it “exceptional” and lauding the special Sindoor formations showcased during the event.

He also described the Sindoor formation as “brilliant,” as the annual ceremony marked the formal conclusion of the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

“The Air Force Band was exceptional at the Beating Retreat 2026. They performed Brave Warrior, Twilight, Alert (Post Horn Gallop) and Flying Star impeccably. The Sindoor formation was brilliant,” the Prime Minister said.

Operation Sindoor emerged as a central theme during the ceremony at Vijay Chowk, where massed bands of the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force and paramilitary forces performed

a series of patriotic compositions, including Vande Mataram.

The synchronised performances, rich in symbolism and military precision, drew sustained applause from the audience.

Spectators, led by President Droupadi Murmu, were captivated by the illuminated uniforms of the performers and the use of digital, colour-changing LED panels fitted on drums and musical instruments.

Special formations by the bands, depicting Operation Sindoor and the recently decommissioned MiG-21 fighter aircraft, added a powerful visual narrative to the musical display.

The Indian Air Force band stood out as a major highlight of the evening, delivering a flawless rendition of signature tunes such as Brave Warrior, Twilight, Alert and Flying Star, reinforcing the theme of valour, vigilance and aerial might.

The ceremony was attended by PM Modi, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force, along with the Chief of Defence Staff, were also present.

Held annually on January 29, the Beating Retreat ceremony traditionally marks the culmination of Republic Day celebrations.

At the conclusion of Thursday’s programme, the national flag was lowered, and the National Anthem was played, formally bringing the festivities to a close.