Raksha Mantri and UP CM inaugurate Laser, Light & Sound Show at Smritika War Memorial
On April 11, 2026, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath formally inaugurated a new Laser, Light and Sound Show at the Smritika War Memorial located in Lucknow Cantonment, Uttar Pradesh. The show, lasting approximately 30 minutes and delivered in Hindi, utilizes advanced multimedia technology to present the Indian Army’s history, major wartime operations, and its role in the country's nation-building efforts. It is scheduled to be held every evening and will soon be accessible to the public. The presentation covers India’s significant conflicts including wars in 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971, while emphasizing notable military operations such as Operation MEGHDOOT and Operation VIJAY. It prominently features the Central Command’s significant involvement and underscores the gallantry of Param Vir Chakra recipients originating from the Awadh region. The show also integrates an overview of Awadh’s longstanding martial traditions. In addition to historical content, the show highlights the Indian Army’s ongoing modernization efforts addressing evolving security threats and the changing nature of warfare. It also focuses on recent advancements in the Indian Defence Industry, showcased initially during Operation SINDOOR, as well as Uttar Pradesh’s growing role as the hub for 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) initiatives, exemplified by the state’s defence corridor. To accommodate this new attraction, the Smritika War Memorial premises are undergoing significant enhancements. These include installing state-of-the-art projectors and speakers, building a modern amphitheatre, creating three dedicated mural walls depicting military history, and adding murals of new military equipment and war trophies. This initiative has been jointly executed by the HQ Central Command, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation. Originally established in 1994 under HQ Central Command auspices, the Smritika War Memorial commemorates the valour, sacrifice, and spirit of Indian Defence Forces personnel. Its functioning supports national pride, military heritage preservation, and public awareness, particularly targeting youth engagement. The inauguration event saw the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Shri Brajesh Pathak, Lt Gen Anindya Sengputa, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Central Command, and other senior military and government officials.
