Bengaluru, 17 Feb 2024;
The Maratha Light Infantry Regiment Center, Belagavi team comprising 01 Officer, 10 Other Ranks and 02 Veterans undertook a Fort to Fort Cycle Expedition. The journey commenced on 4th Feb to mark the historic significance of capture of Kondana Fort (now Sinhagarh) by Tanaji Malusare the * Subhedar* of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The Enthusiastic Cyclists Team led by Maj Sandeep embarked on a challenging journey of covering a distance of almost 550 Kms and seven forts to culminate at the famous Sinhagad Fort.
Forts selected dor the expedition hold immense significance, both historically and culturally. A total of seven forts, from Torna (first Fort captured by Shivaji at the age of 16) to Sinhagarh (symbol of Maratha Resistance to the Mughals) were selected. It also incl forts like Pratapgarh (where Shivaji Maharaj famously defeated the Adilshahi General Afzal Khan), Rajhansgarh, Vallabhgarh, Ajinkyatara and Panhala which were administratively important fortresses to guard Southern aggression of Mughals.
The cycle expedition was conducted with a threefold aim of spreading awareness of great Indian Military leaders and fight for Swarajya, reaching out to Veterans, and motivating the young generation by showcasing the values of patriotism embodied by both historical figures and modern-day soldiers. The team interacted with approx 1000 veterans and equal no of locals and school children. They received an overwhelming response from veterans, locals and school children alike.
The expedition was flagged in at Sinhagarh Fort by Lt Gen PJS Pannu, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd) and other dignitaries who greeted the team with cheers and personally interacted with them. The expedition served as a testament to the spirit of unity and highlighted the efforts by the Regiment towards Nation Building.
