New Delhi: As part of the nationwide celebrations marking Kargil Vijay Diwas 2026, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday flagged off the ‘Shaurya Vijay Yatra’ from the National War Memorial in New Delhi. Organised under the theme “One Ride, One Nation, One Salute,” the 13-day expedition is dedicated to honouring the courage, valour and supreme sacrifice of the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War.

The tribute ride features 28 riders on Jawa and Yezdi motorcycles, including serving and retired armed forces personnel along with their family members. Covering nearly 1,900 kilometres, the riders will travel to the Kargil War Memorial at Dras, Ladakh, where the journey will culminate on July 26, commemorating Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Journey Through Iconic War Memorials

The Shaurya Vijay Yatra will pass through the Chandimandir, Rezang La and Leh War Memorials, paying homage to India’s military legacy. A ceremonial urn carrying sacred soil from the National War Memorial is also being transported to Kargil, symbolising the enduring bravery and sacrifice of generations of Indian soldiers.

During the journey, the riders will also honour Veer Naris (war widows), acknowledging their resilience, courage and unwavering commitment to the nation.

Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute to Kargil Heroes

The flag-off ceremony was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, senior military officers, veterans and distinguished guests.

Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the extraordinary courage displayed by Indian soldiers during the Kargil War. He described the victory as a symbol of India’s unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and national pride.

The Defence Minister also remembered Param Vir Chakra awardees Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Honorary Captain Yogendra Singh Yadav (Retd.), and Honorary Captain Sanjay Kumar (Retd.), acknowledging their exceptional contributions to the nation’s victory.

A Tradition Since 2021

The Jawa-Yezdi Motorcycles initiative began in 2021 with the objective of connecting the motorcycling community with the inspiring stories of India’s armed forces and fostering a deeper sense of patriotism. Over the years, the Shaurya Vijay Yatra has evolved into a proud tradition celebrating courage, sacrifice and national service.

Keeping the Legacy Alive

Speaking on the occasion, Anupam Thareja, Co-founder of Classic Legends, said the Shaurya Vijay Yatra is a heartfelt tribute to the heroes of Kargil and their families.

He said the initiative was launched with the belief that remembering the sacrifices of the nation’s soldiers and expressing gratitude towards them is a shared responsibility. Thareja added that the journey aims to inspire future generations with the stories of the Kargil heroes and that partnering with the Indian Army in this tribute is a matter of immense pride and honour.