While there are loud talks of inclusion all around, only a few do something to bridge the gap. In a moment that is more than heartwarming, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi recently showed how a simple gesture can become a symbol of inclusion, blending strength with empathy.
COAS General Dwivedi joined a specially-abled athlete in a spontaneous push-up challenge during the Shaurya Veer Run for India on Sunday (October 26, 2025). The event marked the 79th anniversary of Shaurya Diwas, commemorating the Indian Army’s pivotal role in securing Jammu & Kashmir’s accession to India in 1947.
A viral moment of compassion and courage
It took no time for the scene to get noticed and go viral as General Dwivedi matching push-ups with Anurag Rawat, a cerebral palsy athlete from Uttarakhand, as the crowd cheered them on. It wasn’t just a fitness challenge, it was a moment of inspiration.
The Army Chief’s genuine act of inclusion resonated deeply across the nation, symbolising the Army’s core values of unity, empathy, and strength beyond barriers.
In Delhi, the flagship event was held at Cariappa Parade Ground, and was flagged off by General Dwivedi. The Delhi edition witnessed over 8,000 runners, reflecting the spirit of unity and enthusiasm that defined the occasion.
The Shaurya Veer Run, jointly organised by the Indian Armed Forces and RED FM, brought together soldiers, veterans, youth, and civilians in a celebration of courage and national pride. The event served as a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers who defended the nation’s integrity in 1947.
“This run was covered in various distances like 3 km, 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km. The support that we have received from the Indian Army has provided immense encouragement. Many civilians participated in this run to support the army… This race took place in 21 locations, and more than 35,000 people participated in it,” General Dwivedi said.
General Dwivedi’s touching gesture served as a reminder that leadership is not just about command, it’s about compassion. In joining hands, or rather push-ups, with a specially-abled athlete, the Army Chief embodied the spirit of a nation where courage knows no physical limits.