Hanumanthappa no more, India in grief

Hanumanthappa Koppad

New Delhi, February 11, 2016: Lance Naik Hanumanthappa Koppad has passed away leaving India in deep shock and grief.

The valiant soldier who defied death after getting buried under 25 feet of snow at Siachen Glacier was fighting for his life at an army hospital here.

Hanumanthappa and nine of his colleagues were hit by an avalanche and they were all feared to have perished but Lance Naik’s news of survival brought much relief to the country.

His family was hoping that their son will be able to serve the country again.

Aamir Khan and many other celebrities had joined citizens in praying for the braveheart whose very survival in extreme circumstances has became the talk of the country.

Aamir Khan  too prayed for the braveheart
Aamir Khan praying for the braveheart

Indian Prime Minister Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the way:

Narendra Modi
PM Modi too wished for his recovery

But despite everything, the fight for life eventually ended today leaving everyone in deep grief.

Sachin Tendulkar echoed the sentiments of the country when he wrote : “The only ray of hope amidst the devastating news of the avalanche was finding one of our jawans alive against all odds. Hearing of his demise leaves the entire nation shattered. I have always held our armed forces in the highest regard, especially those who serve in these extreme conditions. RIP Lance Naik ‪#‎Hanumanthappa‬

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “He leaves us sad & devastated. RIP Lance Naik Hanumanthappa. The soldier in you remains immortal. Proud that martyrs like you served India.”

Sudarshan Pattnaik gave a heartfelt tribute to the martyr with this sand art:

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An artist’s goodbye!

 

The demise of the soldiers is a sad reminder for the country of the extreme circumstances under which the Indian soldiers work and the sacrifices they make for the nation. It is now up to the Indian government to ensure that the welfare of the soldiers is also kept in mind while they work to protect the borders in unhabitable circumstances. Only that will be

It is now up to the Indian government to ensure that the welfare of the soldiers is also kept in mind while they work to protect the borders in unhabitable circumstances.

Only that will be the truest tribute for the Indian soldiers.

Pic Credit: ADGPI – Indian Army