The Indian Military Academy in Dehradun
Credit: X/@Amarrrrz
The Indian Military Academy in Dehradun was diligently preparing for the 53rd course’s golden jubilee celebration. My spouse was ecstatic as he was from the 53rd course. It was really hot in Dehradun, yet it was a pleasure to be with him at this incredible event for many reasons.
Way back in 1974, my spouse, Col Thimmaiah, received the coveted “Sword of Honour,” which is awarded to the best-performing cadet during overall training. He was the first from our Kodava community to have received the award.
There were multiple motivations for visiting the IMA. Another inducement was that he would be seeing some of his course mates whom he hadn’t seen in fifty years. While in the Army, he got the opportunity to meet some of his coursemates, some of whom are currently residents of Bengaluru. His course mates’ WhatsApp group, created, was a clear reflection of his nostalgic thoughts when he first met them. In the 1980s, my spouse had a posting in Dehradun. I was engaged to be married to him at the time; thus, I was unable to travel to Dehradun. This place reminded me of our courtship period.
We marched, rather flew, to the Doon Valley. As we got closer to the prestigious Indian Military Academy, one of the best army training institutions in the world for cadet training, I ignored the heat and observed my husband’s excitement growing. I listened to him talk to the cab driver about his old recollections. Apart from sports, adventure activities, and training, he also talked about the significance of academics and development activities.
He informed me how amazing their food was on our drive. I was curious as to how the chefs managed to feed everyone’s ravenous appetite. Even at the dining area, they had to follow the right protocol and table manners.
We were transported to a new setting as soon as we arrived at the academy. This vast campus was located far away from the bustle and was an amazing sight to behold. The vibrant structure did evoke feelings of patriotism. The gabled roof and colour-coated zincalume features set the Chetwode building apart.
There was eventually excitement, laughter, and the coursessmates striking up conversations brought back memories of the hard work that they had put in at the Indian Military Academy as cadets. The stunning surroundings, the imposing edifice, and this reunion will always be etched in my memory. I am really proud to be married to a gentleman cadet who attended the Indian Military Academy after graduating from the National Defence Academy.