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Garuda Aerospace’s silent national anthem campaign embodies true patriotism
Mumbai: In a heartwarming tribute to India’s diversity and unity, Garuda Aerospace’s special drone pilots and technicians with hearing and speaking challenges have created a unique rendition of the National Anthem. This Independence Day, their performance reminds us that patriotism transcends all barriers, touching hearts across the nation.
Now streaming across social media platforms, this in-house production offers a unique perspective on Jana Gana Mana. It’s not just a campaign – it’s a powerful statement of inclusivity and national pride. Whether you are watching for the first time or a revisit, this heartfelt performance is sure to evoke a deep sense of pride and unity.
Reflecting Garuda Aerospace’s broader commitment to inclusivity, the company continues its dedication through the Equality Drone Training programme. In partnership with the Bharat Drone Association and the National Drone Pilot Association, this 10-day Chennai-based initiative equips individuals with challenges with essential drone technology skills. Supported by Varsha Kukreti Augustine and Dr MJ Augustine Vinod, the program aims to foster greater inclusivity and train 10,000 participants nationwide by 2025.
Garuda Aerospace CEO & founder Agnishwar Jayaprakash reflects on the National Anthem tribute “Watching our team perform the National Anthem stirred something deep within me. This tribute captures the essence of the anthem through the passion in their eyes and the pride in their gestures. This is the real India – where every heartbeat echoes the rhythm of our nation. Our remarkable team has shown us that patriotism needs no words; it’s a feeling that unites us all.”
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
