The banner was unusual, strange, and noticeable at first. We had been confined to camp for the last couple of months during our First Trimester. It was an
other August 15 while celebrating ID Day, and it was indeed a rare opportunity to finally have a gate pass. We’re excited at the chance to experience what Pagal-Gymkhana is all about. It’s an afternoon of fun and games in the Armed Forces and Paramilitaries. There are unusual games for the soldiers and for the families, and they are all in good spirits too. On this historic day, it signifies India’s triumph over colonial rule, which is celebrated across the country. However, it’s a special day for defence establishments. Soon after raising the National Flag above the Air House, the cadets in their ever-shining ceremonial uniforms marched past in synchronised movements with the sound of the Air Force Band. The parade salutes the raised dais facing north as a gesture of respect and trust. The josh among trainees was untiring enthusiasm while the parade commander reviewed each flight, made an address, and took salutes.
The Bada Khana at Trainee Mess always keeps our hunger pangs at bay. We had a healthy appetite then. It was a sumptuous, luxurious lunch. After having a hearty meal, it tempted us to lie down over charpoy, but Pagal-Gymkhana was calling us. We had to move in an all-white outfit because our dress code and induction haircut were easily identified at large, and we couldn’t do any damn things like other civilians. Oh, that’s such a pity. Air Force Station Jalahalli organised Pagal-Gymkhna as part of the Independence Day celebrations with the aim to bring excitement back and break the monotony of armed forces life through recreational activities and fun-filled events. The event has a long history dating back to the days of British rule and is a celebration of the informal and the offbeat. Hundreds of soldiers and families were gathering at Jalahalli East Ground in the afternoon to watch the spectacle.
There were games and events that required skill, coordination, and, most importantly, a sense of humour. It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to spend a lovely afternoon in a very informal atmosphere. Three-Legged Race, Wheel Barrow Race, Musical Chair, Shuttle Relay, Gunny Bag Race, Dart Throw, Bucket and Ball Game, Fishing Rod Game, Tug of War, and many more filled young minds with happiness and zeal. Participants looked thrilled and excited as they took an active role. The initiative was very well appreciated by all. It didn’t disappoint us either, while we had another idea of playing number-based Tambola. That was quite popular and addictive in our time. We came across a couple of small stalls displaying the skill of archery. As a child, I witnessed those ancient divine skills. The modern history of archery in the Northeast can be traced back to the tribal resistance against the British invaders. I found it alluring. So I gambled with bows and arrows.
However, my curiosity was piqued by the ring toss, where Cane rings are tossed around the dazzling golden beer bottles. The excitement was gathering. I stopped at one and tried my luck. Soon I placed a ring on the target with precision; trainees gave a loud hurrah every time I won a couple of throws. The gambler was shocked by my motor skills and hand-eye coordination and stopped me from further throwing ring-a-bottle. You are allowed to drink two beers on L.T. I was caught up in the excitement and walked away with a pair of drinks. We didn’t ask for a pint of beer that was brewed at Pagal Gymkhana. After we had played all day and chatted over beers until dusk, We had been out boozing another day, but the offbeat British legacy was simply overwhelming. There was an intoxicating sense of freedom on that Day. The soldiers shrugged their shoulders and promised to return next time.
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