Prior to the start of a high-level briefing presided over by the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs), the Army showed a new video featuring images of its operations. Playing in the background was a stirring poem by national poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar: “Jab naash manuj par chhata hai, pehle vivek mar jaata hai,” which means “When destruction looms over man, wisdom is the first to perish.” The verse eloquently captured the striking strength and determination of the Indian Army.
Upon asking about the meaning being conveyed, Air Marshal AK Bharti recited a strong stanza by renowned poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkarfrom Ramcharitmanas: “Vinay Na Maanat Jaladh Jad Gye Teen Din Beet, Bole Raam Sakop Tab Bhay Bin Hoye Na Preeti” (original: “विनय ना मानत जलध जड़ गए तीन दिन बीति। बोले राम सकोप तब भय बिनु होय ना प्रीति”).
The poem had been translated as a message that diplomacy has its limits and once it fails, firm action must be taken.
Take a look:
#WATCH | Delhi | #OperationSindoor | On being asked about the message being conveyed by using Ramdhari Singh Dinkar’s poem in the video presentation, Air Marshal AK Bharti says, “…’विनय ना मानत जलध जड़ गए तीन दिन बीति। बोले राम सकोप तब भय बिनु होय ना प्रीति’..” pic.twitter.com/WBDdUI47oX
— ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2025
This poetic allusion was invoked in the context of rising tensions with Pakistan, especially following Operation Sindoor, India’s rapid military response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation, conducted on May 7, hit nine terrorist camps in Pakistani territory. The Indian Army subsequently tweeted on X, saying, ‘Justice is served’.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi followed Operation Sindoor closely during the night after having given the military full operational freedom to retaliate against the attacks earlier. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh too accepted the operation with a patriotic post on X, in Hindi: ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai!’
During the briefing, the Indian military presented charred remains of a crashed Pakistani Mirage fighter aircraft as part of the presentation. Among the charred pieces were broken fragments and identifying characteristics, exactly declaring Pakistan’s incursion into Indian territory and substantiating India’s defensive actions. The visual verification helped to authenticate India’s restrained response and disprove charges of impulsiveness.
Above a status report, the DGMOs’ briefing emphasized strategic restraint, credibility, and intent-based retaliation—conveying that India operates on hard evidence and planned intent.
