The Indian Air Force’s famous Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team thrilled thousands of spectators with a grand air show above the Somnath Temple on May 11 during the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav-2026 celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the special event, which marked 75 years since the reconstruction of the historic temple. The colourful flypast and precision aerial formations became one of the biggest highlights of the celebrations in Gujarat, drawing devotees, tourists, and aviation enthusiasts from across the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also participated in the Vishesh Maha Puja at the temple before taking part in the Kumbhabhishek and Dhvajarohan ceremonies. These rituals marked the consecration of the temple and the ceremonial hoisting of the sacred temple flag. Large crowds gathered across the temple town to witness both the religious ceremonies and the Indian Air Force performance, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the day.
Indian Air Force pilots impress spectators
Officials confirmed that rehearsal flights for the Surya Kiran air show were conducted on Sunday morning over Somnath. Spectators praised the pilots for their discipline, close-range flying skills, and perfectly timed formations in the skies above the temple town. The Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, led by Group Captain Ajay Dasharathi, includes 13 highly trained pilots known for performing complex manoeuvres with precision and coordination.
Around 25 to 30 Indian Air Force personnel from the Jamnagar station managed operational responsibilities for the event. Their duties included flypast coordination, aviation safety monitoring, bird hazard control, weather assessment, and signal communication to ensure the smooth conduct of the aerial performance.
Surya Kiran team carries global reputation
Established in 1996, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team has become one of the most recognised aviation display teams in India. The team has completed more than 800 aerial displays across the country and has represented the Indian Air Force at international events in China, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates. The performance at Somnath once again highlighted the skill, professionalism, and global reputation of the Indian Air Force and its celebrated aerobatic team.
