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Indian Diaspora in Paris Honors Pulwama Martyrs with Solemn Tribute at Arc de Triomphe

Members of the Indian diaspora in Paris gathered at the Arc de Triomphe for a solemn ceremony marking the anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack. The event, organized by Indians in France Global, honored the 40 CRPF personnel killed in the deadliest terror attack on Indian security forces. Daljeet Singh, the group's president, emphasized the day's significance as one of reflection and gratitude, contrasting with Valentine's Day celebrations. The gathering concluded with a collective pledge to keep the memory of the martyrs alive through solidarity.

Key Points: Paris Indian Diaspora Pays Tribute to Pulwama Attack Martyrs

  • Solemn remembrance at Arc de Triomphe
  • Tribute to 40 CRPF martyrs
  • Message of unity across borders
  • Day of reflection over celebration
  • Collective pledge to honour sacrifice
2 min read

Indian diaspora in Paris pays tribute to Pulwama bravehearts on February 14

Indian community in France holds remembrance ceremony at Arc de Triomphe for the 40 CRPF personnel killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack.

"Some sorrows never fade, and some separations never end. Lamps have been burning for years in memory of those who never returned. - Daljeet Singh"

Paris, February 16

Members of the Indian diaspora gathered at the Arc de Triomphe on Friday evening for a solemn remembrance ceremony marking the anniversary of the 2019 Pulwama attack.

The event was organised by Indians in France Global to honour the 40 personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force who were killed in one of the deadliest terror attacks on Indian security forces.

On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a convoy of CRPF buses in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, triggering nationwide grief and international condemnation. The attack continues to be remembered each year as a symbol of sacrifice and national resilience.

The ceremony in Paris began at 17:30 local time with floral tributes and a moment of silence. Members of the community held candles and the Indian tricolour, paying respects to the fallen soldiers and expressing solidarity with their families back home.

Speaking on the occasion, Daljeet Singh, President of Indians in France Global, said the day held deeper significance beyond remembrance. He noted that while February 14 is celebrated as Valentine's Day in France, for many Indians it is also a day of reflection and gratitude.

"Today we remember the 40 brave soldiers who laid down their lives. Some sorrows never fade, and some separations never end. Lamps have been burning for years in memory of those who never returned. We bow our heads to the martyrs who protected our country and our families," Singh said in his message, also thanking the families of the fallen personnel.

Organisers said the presence of the media and community members helped convey a message of unity and respect across borders. The gathering concluded with a collective pledge to keep the memory of the martyrs alive and to honour their sacrifice through remembrance and solidarity.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate the sentiment, I sometimes wonder if these ceremonies abroad are more for social media visibility than genuine remembrance. The real tribute is supporting the families of the martyrs back home, which often gets forgotten after February 14th.
R
Rohit P
Salute to the organisers. It's important that the world sees our unity and respect for our soldiers, no matter where we are. The Arc de Triomphe is a powerful location for such a tribute.
S
Sarah B
I'm an NRI living in London, and this resonates deeply. On Valentine's Day here, my family always lights a diya at home. It's a small act, but it connects us to the soil. Proud of the Paris community.
V
Vikram M
"Some sorrows never fade" – that line from the speech hit hard. We must ensure the nation's resolve against terrorism remains just as strong. A fitting tribute by the diaspora.
K
Karthik V
Good initiative. But remembrance should also translate into action. Are we doing enough for the security forces currently serving in J&K? That's the real question we should ask ourselves every year.

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