Immersive war memorial show inaugurated in Lucknow to showcase Indian army’s legacy

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday jointly inaugurated a state-of-the-art Laser, Light and Sound Show at the Smritika War Memorial, marking a significant step towards modernising the presentation of India’s military heritage.

The newly launched 30-minute multimedia show , presented in Hindi, offers an immersive experience of the Indian Army’s history, operational achievements and its contributions to nation-building. Using advanced projection systems, synchronised lighting and high-quality sound design, the show recreates key moments from India’s military past in a visually engaging format.

The presentation covers major conflicts, including the wars of 1947–48, 1962, 1965 and 1971, while also highlighting notable military operations such as Operation Meghdoot and Operation Vijay. It places particular emphasis on the role of the Central Command and honours the bravery of Param Vir Chakra awardees from the Awadh region, alongside showcasing the region’s long-standing martial traditions.

In addition to historical narratives, the show reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing transformation in response to evolving security challenges. It also highlights recent advancements in the domestic defence sector, underlining the growing focus on self-reliance and the emergence of Uttar Pradesh as a key hub for defence manufacturing through its defence corridor initiative.

To support the initiative, the Smritika War Memorial premises are undergoing extensive upgrades. These include the installation of modern projection and sound systems, the construction of a contemporary amphitheatre, and the development of dedicated mural walls that serve both as exhibits of military history and as dynamic projection surfaces for the show.

The project has been executed by the Headquarters Central Command in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government and the Uttar Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation. Officials stated that the show will be held daily in the evening and will soon be opened to the general public.

Established in 1994, the Smritika War Memorial stands as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Indian armed forces personnel. The addition of this immersive show is expected to enhance public engagement, promote awareness of military history and strengthen a sense of national pride, particularly among younger generations.

Several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak and senior Indian Army officials, were present at the inauguration ceremony.