नेपाल सम्वत् ११४५ सिल्लागाः १३ (१४ फाल्गुन, २०८१) फेब्रुअरी २६, २०२५ ,बुधबार, बाँपीझ्याला ।President Ramchandra Paudel attended a grand ceremony organized by the Nepali Army (NA) to celebrate Mahashivaratri and the 261st NA Day. The event, held in Tundikhel, featured a series of impressive displays and performances, including a feu-de-joie (celebratory gunfire), skill demonstrations, and cultural programs. As the Supreme Commander of the NA, President Paudel received a guard of honor from an NA contingent and laid a wreath at the NA memorial. The NA Day coincides with Mahashivaratri, a festival honoring Lord Shiva, who symbolizes peace and security in Vedic traditions.
During the event, President Paudel launched the NA’s annual magazine, Sipahi-2081 BS, published by the NA Directorate of Public Relations and Information. He also awarded prizes to Major Jaganath Danai and Corporal Mitra Bahadur Rana Magar for their outstanding performances in the ‘free fall jump’ competition. Additionally, he presented “Tokens of Remembrance” to military band chiefs from India, the UK, and the US, who performed during the celebrations.
The ceremony showcased the NA’s capabilities and traditions through various displays, including a helicopter showering flower petals, celebratory rifle and artillery fire, and floats depicting traditional army costumes. The event also featured cultural dances, patriotic songs, and military skill demonstrations such as Aikido, Taekwondo, Khukuri Drill, and the Shoot to Kill Drill. Soldiers formed the NA insignia—a hexagon with a trident and pellet drum—alongside the map of Nepal, symbolizing the army’s dedication to the nation.
The celebration was attended by high-ranking officials, including Vice President Ram Sahaya Prasad Yadav, Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Chief Justice Prakash Man Singh Raut, Speaker Devraj Ghimire, and National Assembly Chair Narayana Prasad Dahal. Former Indian Army Chiefs, invited by the NA Directorate, also graced the occasion. The event was broadcast live by Nepal Television and other media outlets, highlighting the NA’s rich heritage and its role in maintaining national security and peace.
