Pune: Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar’s Push-Up Session at NDA Echoes Tradition
Khadakwasla, 18th January 2024: Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, aged 61, showcased his physical prowess by engaging in a round of push-ups with cadets nearly one-third his age during a visit to the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla on Tuesday.
The esteemed navy chief, an alumnus of the 61st course, paid a visit to his parent squadron, ‘Juliet,’ alongside Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari. Having graduated from the academy in 1981, Admiral Kumar participated actively, giving young cadets a run for their money.
During the visit, Admiral Kumar also unveiled a 165 kg copper bust of ‘Jaguar,’ the affectionate nickname bestowed upon the ‘Juliet’ squadron. The plaque accompanying the bust commemorates the squadron’s victory in securing the Chiefs of Staff Banner in 2023. The inscription emphasizes the symbolism of the unfinished copper bust, representing the continuous transformation of young cadets, likened to greenhorn cubs, evolving into formidable and fearless Jaguars.
“The growling Jaguar commemorates winning of the Chiefs of Staff Banner in 2023. The majestic 165 kg unfinished copper bust symbolises the ever-ongoing continuum of young greenhorn cubs being nurtured into fierce and fearless Jaguars. Their growl and prowl are now synonymous with being champion,” reads the message on the plaque at the squadron.
A spokesperson for the Indian Navy shared a video of the event on platform X (Twitter), stating, “Adm R Hari Kumar #CNS, visited his alma mater, the Juliet Squadron of #NationalDefenceAcademy and joined the celebrations of winning the Champion Chiefs of Staff Banner. An exhilarating moment as #CNS joined the enthusiastic cadets marking their triumph with traditional push-ups.”
This impressive display of physical fitness and camaraderie echoes a tradition within the Indian Navy, as previously demonstrated by then Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh in 2022 during his visit to his parent squadron ‘Hunter.’
