In Bengaluru, patriotism lives in stone and memory

As India marks the 79th anniversary of freedom, Bengaluru comes alive with patriotic fervour. But beyond the celebrations, the city bears a deeper connection to the nation’s military history. Here’s a look at some of Bengaluru’s iconic spots that honour this legacy, etched in stone, brass, and memory.

The Madras Sappers: Ulsoor Lake

One of the city’s oldest army units, part of the Madras Engineer Group, dates back to 1780. Renowned for its bravery and engineering expertise, it stands as a testament to Bengaluru’s rich military heritage.

‘Army cantonments were not a part of the city earlier’

Col P Jayaraja Rtd from Bengaluru shares that in the past, the army cantonment areas were away from the city’s chaos and were kept clean and neat, but as the city grew, they have now become a part of the city. “During the 1960s-70s, whenever you entered a cantonment area in Bengaluru, you found it clean, with many trees and a good breathing environment. That time, the area was nothing less than Switzerland. Our houses had tiles that would remind you of the olden times. But now with so much development and construction, that old charm has gone,” he adds.

LCA Aircraft: Minsk Square

The aircraft displayed is a full-scale stainless steel model of the LCA Tejas - India’s locally designed and developed multirole fighter, installed by HAL at Minsk Square, just outside Cubbon Park’s northeast entrance near the metro station. Many Bengalureans fondly recall the Tejas model as something they have seen since childhood.

World War Memorial: Brigade Road

Those exploring Brigade Road, heritage tours often include this memorial that celebrates Bengaluru’s military and colonial legacy. This particular monument is a four-sided block, with each side paying tribute to a different theatre of war where the Madras Pioneers fought. On this side, the inscription is a dedication to Sikh soldiers who stood their ground against 10,000 Afghan invaders. It reads: Erected by their comrades in memory of officers, non-commissioned officers and pioneers of the First Madras Pioneers who gave their lives during the Great War 1914–18.”

National Military Memorial Park: Millers Road, Vasanth Nagar

The National Military Memorial Park in Bengaluru honours soldiers who sacrificed their lives for India. The park features the names of martyrs etched in granite and exhibits highlighting the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Below is a statue of one such soldier.

Indian Army Tornadoes: Trinity Church Road

The Indian Army Tornadoes, stationed at the ASC Centre (South), are the motorcycle stunt team of the Army Service Corps (ASC). Known for their record-breaking performances at events across the country, the team also carries out its training and administrative work at the ASC Centre.

Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Parade Ground: Parade Ground, M G Road

Named in honour of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, this ground is the city’s most iconic open space used for major military events, parades, and celebrations like Independence Day and Republic Day.

Parachute Regiment Training Centre: RT Nagar

The Parachute Regiment Training Centre (PRTC) in RT Nagar, is an institution known for its training programme that focus on skill development, physical strength and combat skills. The statue in front of the gate portrays a paratrooper - a symbolic representation of the courage, readiness and airborne heritage of the Parachute Regiment.


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