Indian Navy soldiers in front of the Gateway of India, Mumbai

© Danish Siddiqui/REUTER

Anchors aweigh to honour. Navy Day

With waves of pride and sails of courage, India celebrates Navy Day today. Initially, the occasion aligned with Trafalgar Day, marking the United Kingdom's Royal Navy's historic victory in the Battle of Trafalgar. The Royal Indian Navy first celebrated Navy Day on 21 October, 1944, aiming to raise public awareness and showcase the Navy's contributions. Today, however, the country observes Navy Day on 4 December in honour of Operation Trident, a pivotal mission in which the Indian Navy launched a powerful strike, sinking four Pakistani vessels, including the PNS Khaibar, and secured a crucial victory over the Pakistan Navy.

In the days leading up to Navy Day, the excitement builds with Navy Week. Events are in full swing—from open sea swimming competitions to ship tours for visitors and schoolchildren, plus a special veteran sailors' lunch. There's also a spectacular Naval Symphonic Orchestra performance, an Inter-School Navy Quiz, a Navy Half Marathon and an air show just for school kids. And to top it all off, the grand Beating Retreat—like the one at the Gateway of India, seen in today's image—and tattoo ceremonies add the perfect ceremonial finish!