Roar of the Thambis: 26 Madras Regiment Commemorates 54th Siramani Day with Grand Bike Rally in Dooars
JAIGAON | December 6, 2025
The scenic highways of the Dooars resonated with the roar of engines and a wave of patriotism today as the 26 Madras Regiment undertook a significant commemorative journey—the “54th Siramani Day Bike Rally.”
Organized as a glorious tribute to the War Heroes of 1971, the rally honored the regiment’s pivotal role in the Battle of Siramani and Operation Cactus Lily during the liberation of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan). The event served not only as a display of discipline and endurance but also as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to secure the nation’s borders.
A Journey of Remembrance
The convoy, consisting of 45 bikers, flagged off from the Sevoke Road Military Station earlier in the day. Traversing a strategic and visually stunning route, the “Thambis” (as the Madras Regiment soldiers are affectionately known) rode through the heart of North Bengal, passing the Coronation Bridge, Bagrakote Tea Estate, Damdim, and Malbazar.
En route to Jaigaon, the convoy made a solemn halt at the Binnaguri Army Cantonment to pay their respects to the fallen heroes at the War Memorial. Following this tribute, they continued through Jaldapara and Hasimara before reaching their grand finale in Jaigaon.
Warm Welcome at the Border
The rally reached the border town of Jaigaon at 1300 hours, halting at the Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) complex in Manglabari.
The team, led by Colonel Ashwani Pandita, was received with military warmth by Lt. Colonel Amit Anshal (IMTRAT Workshop) and Lieutenant Colonel Sandeep Patnaik (OC Civil GT, IMTRAT).
Following a formal photo session to mark the occasion, the civilian connection to the armed forces was highlighted during a felicitation ceremony. Members of the Jaigaon Welfare Organization (JWO), which coordinated the rally’s Jaigaon leg, along with the PST, honored the team with traditional Khadars, symbolizing respect and good fortune.
The Team Behind the Handlebars
The rally showcased the leadership and camaraderie of the 26 Madras Regiment. The 45-member team was led from the front by a distinguished group of officers:
Colonel Ashwani Pandita (Team Leader), Lieutenant Colonel Bhoj Thapa, Lieutenant Colonel Ram Prabhu, Major Vikas Kumar Singh, Major Arnab, Major Kipgen, Major Deepak, Captain Shubham, Captain Anuj, Captain Lucky and Lieutenant Shaw.
A Legacy of Valour
The banner accompanying the rally highlighted the storied history of the 26 Madras Regiment. The unit proudly displays the Battle Honour “Siramani 1971” and Theatre Honour “East Pakistan 1971.”
Beyond the 1971 war, the regiment’s history of service is extensive, including counter-insurgency operations such as Op Rhino II (2001) and international peacekeeping duties under the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC) in 2007.
The team departed Jaigaon at 1600 hours to return to their base, leaving behind a renewed sense of pride among the residents of the Dooars.
About the Organization
The Madras Regiment is one of the oldest infantry regiments of the Indian Army, with a history dating back to the 18th century. Known for their ferocity in battle and deep loyalty, their soldiers hail from the southern states of India. Their war cry, “Veer Madrassi, Adi Kollu, Adi Kollu!” (Brave Madrassi, Strike and Kill, Strike and Kill!), strikes fear into the enemy.
Battle of Siramani (1971)
The Battle of Siramani was a decisive engagement in the Khulna sector of East Pakistan. The 26 Madras Regiment displayed exemplary courage in capturing heavily fortified enemy positions, contributing significantly to the swift victory of Indian forces in the 1971 war.
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