In a heartwarming gesture of gratitude towards the Indian Armed Forces, a remarkable trend has emerged in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district, where at least 17 newborns have been named ‘Sindoor.’ This unique naming choice follows India’s successful execution of Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike against terrorist bases in Pakistan, launched in response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that resulted in the loss of several soldiers.
Most of these infants were born on May 9 and 10, shortly after the military operation, offering a living tribute to a moment that ignited a wave of national pride across the country. Kushinagar, steeped in rich traditions, has witnessed families embracing this new naming convention, which diverges from the usual practice of naming children — typically assigned by paternal aunts in many Hindu households in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Neha Gupta, one of the mothers, expressed her motivation, saying, “My baby was born on May 9, two days after our brave soldiers avenged the Pahalgam attack. While I empathize with the bereaved families, I also wish to thank the soldiers who guard our borders. So, I named my daughter ‘Sindoor’ as a tribute to them.” This sentiment resonates deeply amongst the families who have chosen the name, which carries significant emotional weight.
Traditionally, ‘Sindoor’ symbolizes marital commitment among Hindu women. However, after the Pahalgam attack, it has evolved into a broader symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and national unity. Dr. R.K. Shahi, principal of the Government Medical College (Autonomous) in Kushinagar, confirmed that all 17 babies delivered at the facility were given the name ‘Sindoor.’ He noted the palpable wave of patriotic emotion that enveloped the maternity ward, highlighting how the name embodies the collective spirit of the community.
Local social activist Rajesh Mani explained that this naming trend reflects a profound “collective emotion and shared feeling of pride.” Many families in Kushinagar and surrounding areas have members serving in the armed forces, and naming children ‘Sindoor’ symbolizes their respect and admiration for those sacrifices.
Archana Shahi, from Bhedihari village, decided to name her daughter ‘Sindoor’ even before her birth. She shared her reasoning, stating, “Sindoor now stands for courage and resilience. This name is my way of saying thank you to our soldiers,” while her husband, Ajit, added, “We live in safety because of them. This is the least we could do.”
As these newborns embark on their life journey with a name rich in meaning, their stories serve as a testament to the nation’s gratitude and a poignant tribute to its defenders. The wave of patriotism and respect for the armed forces is palpably felt in Kushinagar, marking a significant moment in the community’s identity and collective memory.
