Shaheed Upvan Club feels deeply honoured to have played a role in facilitating the presence of Lt R Madhavan Pillai, an INA veteran, at the prestigious Beating the Retreat Ceremony held at India Gate on 29 January 2026.
On the evening of 28 January 2026, Mr. Ganesh Pillai and Dr. Vijay Patel approached Col. Rajesh Tyagi, General Secretary Shaheed Upwan Club informing him that despite repeated efforts, they had been unable to secure an invitation for the veteran to attend the ceremony. Understanding the emotional and national significance of the request, Col. Tyagi immediately took up the matter with Army Headquarters, even though time was extremely limited.
Responding promptly and graciously, the Army authorities issued an official invitation to Lt. Pillai without delay. The following day, Director Subharti Defence Academy received a heartfelt call from Mr Ganesh Pillai, son of Lt R Madhavan Pillai from the event venue, expressing immense joy and gratitude for the veteran’s inclusion in the ceremony.
The moments captured during the event stand as a powerful reflection of the growing recognition and respect being extended to INA veterans by the Indian Army. Shaheed Upvan Club remains humbled and proud to have contributed, even in a small way, to honouring a true patriot of the nation.
