Delilah D’Souza

Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 26: It was a morning to remember in Vadodara, Gujarat, as the family of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi—India’s first female commanding officer in Operation Sindoor—witnessed a proud and emotional moment during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s grand roadshow on Monday. The Prime Minister himself shared a photograph of the family on social media, drawing national attention to their presence.

Thousands lined the streets waving the Tricolour and chanting patriotic slogans as PM Modi travelled from Vadodara airport to the Air Force Station in a kilometre-long roadshow. Among the sea of supporters stood Colonel Qureshi’s parents, Taj Mohammad Qureshi and Halima Qureshi, alongside her twin sister Shyna Sunsara and brother Sanjay Qureshi, proudly cheering for the nation and their daughter’s legacy.

Shyna Sunsara called it “a moment of immense pride,” recounting the emotional exchange when Prime Minister Modi bowed in respect towards the family. “We returned the gesture with folded hands. It felt like the PM was telling the world that we stand with you, and there is no need to fear,” she said. Shyna also lauded PM Modi’s initiatives toward women’s empowerment and reflected on her sister’s growing influence: “She is not just my sister anymore—she belongs to the entire country.”

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a symbol of courage and determination, became a household name during Operation Sindoor, a swift and resolute response led by the Indian Army. Her leadership and bravery not only earned her accolades but also turned her into an inspiration for millions, especially young women across India.

Taj Mohammad, visibly emotional, said the Prime Minister personally recognized the family during the roadshow and offered them a warm greeting. Her mother, Halima Qureshi, proudly declared, “She’s not only our daughter but the daughter of the entire nation.”

Echoing the family’s sentiments, her brother Sanjay said, “What could be more powerful than a woman avenging the pain of other women? Our armed forces have shown that women stand shoulder to shoulder with men in bravery and strength.”

PM Modi, currently on a two-day visit to his home state, took to social media after the roadshow and wrote: “Extremely delighted to be in this great city. It was a splendid roadshow and that too in the morning! Gratitude to all those who showered their blessings.”

Later in the day, the Prime Minister is scheduled to inaugurate development projects worth ?82,000 crore and flag off two Vande Bharat Express trains from Dahod. He will also lead two additional roadshows, further energising Gujarat’s political and developmental landscape.

As the chants of Bharat Mata ki Jai filled the air, Vadodara not only witnessed a political event but also celebrated the spirit of Indian womanhood—embodied in Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and honoured by the nation’s top leadership.