The early morning mist clung to the majestic peaks surrounding Kanchenjunga Military Academy, casting an ethereal glow over the sprawling campus. The crisp air carried a sense of anticipation, and the distant strains of a military band hinted at the grandeur unfolding in the heart of the academy. Today was no ordinary day; it was Republic Day, a celebration of unity, courage, and the spirit of a nation.

Captain Abhimanyu Rai Chauhan, a dedicated instructor at the academy, stood on the parade ground, surveying the disciplined cadets as they practised their drills with precision. The Kanchenjunga Military Academy, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, was renowned for producing officers who embodied valour and leadership. Today's festivities promised to be a testament to that legacy.

As the sun began its ascent, painting the sky in hues of amber and rose, the cadets assembled in perfect lines, their uniforms immaculate, and medals gleaming in the morning light. Brigadier Chandok, a seasoned and stoic officer with a distinguished career who was also the head of KMA, took his position on the dias.

Captain Rajveer Singh Shekhawat waited as everyone took their positions with precision and accuracy. A nod from Brigadier Chandok and the official celebrations commenced.

The military band struck up the national anthem, and every soul on the parade ground stood at attention. The resonance of the anthem echoed through the valleys, a powerful reminder of the unity that bound the diverse tapestry of India.

The tricolour flag fluttered proudly at the centre of the parade ground, a symbol of the sacrifices made for the nation's freedom.

As the last strains of the anthem faded away, Brigadier Chandok stepped forward, his voice resonating with authority and reverence. "Today, as we gather here to celebrate the 73rd Republic Day, let us remember the ideals that bind us as a nation - unity, diversity, and the pursuit of excellence. Our duty as soldiers extends beyond the parade ground; it is a commitment to safeguard the values that define our great land."

Captain Shekhawat exchanged a look with Captain Chauhan and felt a swell of pride as he observed the cadets, their eyes reflecting a mix of determination and reverence.

The ceremony continued with a precision march past, showcasing the academy's commitment to discipline and excellence.

"Naina ko aaj ye parade lead karte dekh kar bahut sukoon mil raha hai hume, Raj." Captain Chauhan remarked in a strained voice.

Captain Shekhawat nodded, not saying a word, but his eyes said it all. Years ago, Naveen had led their last parade in KMA as cadets. As they watched the sister grow up to fill in the boots of her elder brother, a sense of pride settled over these friends.

"The sentiments are shared, Chauhan Sahab." He replied after a while.

As the march past came to an end and everyone took their alloted seats, Brigadier Chandok rose to address them again.

"This was not in the agenda." Captain Shekhawat muttered too low for others to hear. But Captain Chauhan was nearby, and he heard those soft spoken words.

They watched as Major Soham Agnihotri leaned forward and spoke softly to the Brigadier. And as Brigadier Chandok nodded, he stepped away and went down the stage. Summoning an orderly, he asked him to do something and went back to the stage.

Colonel Shakti Chandra, who was sitting apart from Rajveer and Abhimanyu, smiled a little secretly. Almost immediately, Cadet Singh, who was sitting next to him now that the parade had ended, turned towards Colonel Chandra.

"What is it with your smile, Sir? Is there something that we don't know?"

Colonel Chandra smiled at his too curious cadet and said, "Why don't you wait for a few more minutes, Cadet Singh. A beautiful surprise is in store for all of you."

"I am curious, Sir. Would it be against the rules for you to share it with us?"

Colonel Shakti Chandra looked at the curious faces of the other five cadets peaking from behind Naina and stiffled a laughter. In the last six months, these cadets have come a long way. From being carefree cadets to fighting to prove their mentor's innocence, they had learnt the ropes well. On the verge of graduating from the academy, they were now soldiers ready to face the world. He could sometimes see their childishness peaking from behind that hard exterior, but the incidents were decreasing with time.

"No, but it would spoil the surprise. Why don't you listen to Brigadier Chandok? It might give you a clue."

They nodded and turned to listen to their principal, the first part of which they had already missed.

The Brigadier was now heaping praises on their favourite teacher, Captain Shekhawat.

"Captain Shekhawat has had a distinguished career marked by valour, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the nation. As a Captain, he has not only led his subordinates with distinction but has also been a mentor to junior officers and cadets. His ability to inspire and guide others has contributed to the development of a new generation of capable and dedicated military personnel."

"Does it mean what I think it means?" Naina asked excitedly.

Her excitement was also shared by Captain Chauhan, though, in a much restrained fashion.

"If my gut instincts serve me right Raj, you have a party to host." He teaser his friend.

"You are overthinking, Chauhan Sahab."

"I don't think so, Raj. Look."

Abhimanyu pointed towards the dias where Major Soham Agnihotri, the new member of the staff, gestured the orderly to hold the tray forward. Brigadier Chandok spoke into the microphone, "Capain Rajveer Singh Shekhawat, please come on to the stage."

Outwardly calm and composed, Rajveer was too shaken inside.

As he finally stopped in front of Brigadier Chandok, the Commandant smiled at him. "This is probably the last time I will be addressing you as Captain. It gives me great pleasure to announce your elevation Major Rajveer Singh Shekhawat."

The applause was uproarious. The energy and happiness of the entire academy were palpable. Brigadier Chandok changed the name tag and the stars on the uniform and then presented a medal to Major Shekhawat for unearthing such a major fraud and saving the intelligence secrets of the country. Though not much was spoken about it, people knew Rajveer had accomplished something big.

"Rajveer Singh Shekhawat's elevation to this rank not only recognizes his past achievements but also signifies the trust and confidence placed in him to take on greater responsibilities. His journey from Captain to Major is a testament to his enduring commitment to the defense of the nation and his continued pursuit of excellence in the service of duty."

As Brigadier Chandok finally completed his speech, the second round of appreciation was no less than the first.

Cultural programs followed, with cadets presenting traditional dances and songs that celebrated the rich tapestry of India's heritage.

As the day unfolded, Kanchenjunga Military Academy resonated with the echoes of honour. The celebration was not merely a display of military might; it was a reaffirmation of the ideals that inspired these young men and women to dedicate their lives to the service of the nation.

Little did they know that the echoes of this Republic Day would reverberate far beyond the parade ground, setting the stage for challenges, camaraderie, and a journey that would test the mettle of those who bore the responsibility of upholding the nation's honor.

~~~~~~°•°○●○°•°~~~~~~

Hello All,

Here is the much awaited part of Tujhpe Dil Qurbaan - the second book of From Dawn to Dusk.

Rajveer's promotion was something that I had wanted to see in LRL, and I did it here. I am not sure about the protocol, and I just wrote it according to the flow of the story.

Do let me know how this part turned out.

And just for reminder:

Captain Rajveer Singh Shekhawat







Captain Abhimanyu Rai Chauhan







Major Soham Agnihotri