The Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) 2026, organised by the United Service Institution of India (USI), included a moving session that focused on the lives of military families beyond the parade ground and the uniform.
Stories of loss, support and endurance
The session, titled “The Silent Sentinels: Love, Loss and Resilience Beyond the Uniform,” featured Geetika Lidder, Ambreen Zaidi and Meghna Girish. The discussion was moderated by Aditi Prasad and centred on the personal experiences of families who live with the realities of service, separation and loss.
According to the account shared at the festival, the conversation brought attention to the less visible side of military life, especially the emotional and practical burdens carried by families of armed forces personnel. The speakers highlighted how sacrifice is not limited to those in uniform, but is also borne by those supporting them at home.
Meghna Girish meets senior dignitaries
After the session, Meghna Girish said she appreciated the chance to take part in the two-day festival and to interact with senior military leaders and experts.
She also met Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani and Bihar Governor Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd), and shared a study report on war-disabled soldiers and disabled cadets with them.
Girish underlined the need for continued advocacy to close gaps in policy, implementation and access to support for war-disabled personnel and disabled cadets.
A tribute to military families
The session was presented as a tribute to the courage and resilience of military families, acknowledging the role they play in sustaining the armed forces and the sacrifices that often remain unseen.
