Forged in Steel: 40 Years of Military Bonds

Reunion of the 85 June Batch

On the 7th and 8th of June 2025, nearly 200 proud members of the 76th Regular and 59th Technical Course of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) gathered in Dehradun to mark a remarkable milestone — 40 years since passing out from the hallowed portals of the IMA. This reunion was not just an event; it was a heartfelt celebration of enduring friendships, shared memories, and the unbreakable bond of military brotherhood.

As with all such reunions, the spirit of camaraderie, mutual respect, and genuine affection was on full display — but what made this gathering truly special was the unmistakable energy and warmth unique to IMA course mates. The military fraternity, particularly those who trained and grew together in uniform, share a connection that time and distance cannot erode.

The excitement among course mates and their spouses was palpable as early as January 2025, when preparations for the event began under the enthusiastic leadership of the “Doon Team”. The anticipation steadily built up, reaching its peak on 07 June, as friends began arriving in Dehradun from across the country—and even overseas. A special highlight was the presence of a course mate from the Singaporean Army, adding an international touch to the celebrations. I was particularly fortunate to be joined by my close friend Major Ravi and his gracious wife Anitha at Gurgaon, from where we travelled together for the reunion. We stayed at our home, “The Olive Greens”, in Paonta Sahib for the duration of the reunion.

Ice Breaking

While some of us had the good fortune to cross paths during our years in service, many did not — such is the vastness and operational diversity of the Indian Army. This reunion offered a rare chance for coursemates, once teenage cadets, to reconnect not as officers of different ranks but as equals — friends, brothers-in-arms, and fellow warriors shaped by the same drill square, values, and traditions.

The get-together began with an informal ice-breaking event at the LP Vilas Resort on the evening of 7th June. Initially, there was some apprehension — would we even recognise one another after four decades? But within half an hour, the years seemed to melt away. Laughter echoed, anecdotes flowed, and memories came rushing back. The calendar said 2025, but for those few hours, we were all back in 1985.

What stood out most during the evening was the absolute absence of hierarchical barriers. From majors to generals, everyone mingled as equals. The competitive edge and youthful swagger of academy days had gracefully matured into mutual admiration and deep-rooted affection. Rank had faded; friendship remained.

Honouring the Fallen Comrades

No fauji reunion is complete without a touch of solemnity — a remembrance of those who are no longer with us. On the morning of 8th June, we assembled at the IMA War Memorial for a wreath-laying ceremony, honouring the course mates who had made the ultimate sacrifice or passed away over the years. The atmosphere was reverent as the film “Making of a Warrior” was screened, rekindling pride in our shared journey. This was followed by a roll call of our departed brethren — a list longer than we would have liked. With moist eyes, we sang the IMA song and concluded with the national anthem. For many who have been in civilian life for years now, that one hour brought back the patriotic fervour and noble ideals that once shaped our youth.

The Chetwode

A particularly emotional moment was our visit to the Chetwode Building — the spiritual and symbolic heart of the IMA. Named after the then Commander-in-Chief of India, this iconic structure has, since 1932, watched generations of Gentlemen Cadets take their final step into commissioned life. For the first time, many of us entered the Drill Square in civilian attire, accompanied by our spouses, to take photographs with the Chetwode building in the background — a rare and touching privilege.

This was followed by a relaxed buffet lunch at the historic Nizam Pavilion, originally constructed by the Nizam of Hyderabad in the early 20th century as a rest area for visiting sports teams. The structure, now beautifully restored, functions as the Officers’ Institute of the IMA — a perfect setting for reminiscing over meals and raising toasts to lifelong bonds.

Looking Forward to the Golden Jubilee

The reunion culminated with a grand gala dinner at the majestic Rajputana Hall of the LP Vilas Resort. The evening was filled with music, dancing, laughter, and promises to keep in touch. As we parted ways, there was a shared sense of fulfilment and gratitude — not just for the years behind us, but for the friendships that had endured. With hearts full and spirits high, we vowed to return — for the Golden Jubilee in 2035.