The Stirring Melodies of India's Military

Origin of Indian Military Music

It is widely thought that the Ottomans were pioneers in establishing military bands during the thirteenth century, known as mehter or Janissary bands.

The history of military music in India, however, dates back to the era of the Maratha Empire in the seventeenth century. Before World War I, each battalion-sized regiment of the Indian Army boasted its own military band. The intent was to enhance the Indian population's understanding and enjoyment of European music. In 1813, an Army Colonel advocated for the establishment of military bands in the native regiments of the East India Company in a letter to the Military Secretary of the Commander-in-chief of Fort St George. This initiative aimed at fostering an appreciation for European music among the Indian population. Following India's independence, the country's military music continues.

The Ensemble of Indian Military Bands

The Indian military bands, comprising talented musicians from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, are integral to national celebrations and international festivals. With over 50 brass bands, 400 pipe bands, and a corps of drums, they resonate the spirit of patriotism. Led by the Military Music Wing of the Army Education Corps, these bands blend instruments from woodwind, brass, and percussion families, creating stirring performances. Additionally, dedicated pipe bands, maintained by infantry regiments, further enrich the musical landscape of the Indian military.

Located in Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh, the Military Music Wing operates under the auspices of the Army Education Corps. Post-independence, drawing inspiration from the Royal Military School of Music in the British Royal Corps of Army Music, the notion of establishing a comparable institution arose under the direction of the Advisor of Military Music at the Army Headquarters in New Delhi. This initiative materialised on 23 October 1950, with the backing and supervision of KM Cariappa, who served as the first Indian Chief of the Army Staff at that time.

Different Bands of the Indian Military

Indian Army Chief's Band

Established in 1990, the Indian Army Chief's Band holds the prestigious title of the official band of the Indian Army and the foremost in the armed forces. Representing the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) at events, this band plays a pivotal role in important state gatherings in the Indian capital. It has also proudly represented India at various esteemed military music festivals across the globe, including those held in France, Italy, Sweden, Germany, Great Britain, Russia, and Bangladesh.

Indian Naval Symphonic Band

Founded in 1945, the Indian Naval Symphonic Band stands as one of the premier military bands in Asia. Renowned for its musical prowess, the Naval Musicians are considered unofficial ambassadors of the country. Responsible for conducting the Naval Band at ceremonies and symphonic band concerts both domestically and internationally, they play a vital role in representing India's maritime heritage and culture.

No. 1 Air Force Band

The primary musical unit of the Indian Air Force, the No. 1 Air Force Band, formerly known as the RIAF Central Band, traces its origins back to 10 June 1944. Currently stationed in Jalahalli, this band comprises the Air Warrior Symphony Orchestra (AWSO), formed in June 2002. Hand-picking talented musicians from various Air Force Bands, the AWSO has showcased its musical excellence worldwide, performing in countries such as France, Italy, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, and Bangladesh.

Youth Cadet Bands

Under the umbrella of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), the Boys Band and Girls Band of the NCC serve as important musical units. These cadet bands participate in the NCC Republic Day Camp, held in late January, where they take part in the Republic Day Parade and the Prime Minister's Rally on 28 January. Since 1950, these bands have been integral to the annual celebrations, embodying the spirit of youth and patriotism.

Other Military Bands

In addition to the aforementioned bands, there are various other military bands contributing to the rich musical landscape of India. These include the Paramilitary bands, the Central Reserve Police Force Brass Band, Bands of the Assam Rifles, and more.

Each of these bands plays a unique role in representing the discipline, valour, and heritage of the Indian armed forces through their musical performances.

Celebratory Events with Indian Military Bands

Republic Day Parade

Indian military bands shine in the annual Delhi Republic Day parade on the Rajpath, with bands from various Army regiments, Navy, and Air Force. Notably, Sub Lieutenant Ramesh Chand Katoch holds a record for leading the Navy Band in 20 out of 30 consecutive parades.

Beating Retreat

The Beating Retreat in New Delhi, organised by the Ministry of Defence, features Indian military bands alongside paramilitary services and the Delhi Police Band. It holds a Guinness World Record for hosting the largest military band under one conductor. This tradition draws inspiration from a sixteenth-century military ceremony in England, which signalled nearby patrolling units to return to the castle. As a poignant conclusion to the ceremony, the Scottish hymn Abide With Me, till very recently, had been played each year. This song holds deep significance for the Indian population as it pays homage to all the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. In 2022, amidst the ongoing efforts to remove colonial vestiges from the Indian Military, the hymn was replaced with the patriotic song Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon. This decision sparked a variety of responses, with a retired colonel remarking that omitting the hymn is tantamount to disregarding a long-standing tradition.

Independence Day

Military bands play a significant role in the Independence Day ceremony at the historic Red Fort in Delhi.

Changing of the Guard

At Rashtrapati Bhavan, the ceremonial changing of the guard involves Indian military bands, the President's Body Guard, and the Brigade of the Guards, accompanied by tunes like Sammaan Guard and Sher-E-Jawan.

Military Band Concert

As part of Vijay Diwas celebrations, the Military Band Concert features marching tunes and performances of Bengali and Bangladeshi songs.

Passing Out Parades

Military bands grace passing out parades for cadets, playing traditional tunes. At the Indian Military Academy, the ceremony begins with a melody (aarti) played by the band, allowing cadets to offer prayers.

Music Forging Bonds Across Terrains

The smallest units of the Indian Army, regardless of geographical boundaries, are united by music–a reflection of their local folklore and history. Whether it's Bedu Pako Barah Masa of the Garhwalis, Bhala Sipaeeya Dogariya of the Dogras, Badluram ka Badan of the North East (Assam Regiment), or Suranganita malu genawa of the Thambis (South Indian troops), this musical bond fuels the soldiers deployed across challenging terrains. During ceremonial functions or festivities, soldiers come together, beating their mugs, plates, or tapping tables, swaying to the tunes sung by their own Kishores and Rafis. No unit event is complete without the men gyrating to nostalgic melodies and foot-tapping tunes of the present. This camaraderie, transcending caste, creed, seniority, or rank, is a unique hallmark of the Indian Armed Forces.

From ceremonial marches to battlefield anthems, these melodies embody courage, pride, and resilience, inspiring generations of soldiers. Whether echoing across parade grounds, rugged terrain, or ceremonial events, they unite soldiers in their unwavering dedication to serve their country.