Vadodara, May 26, 2025 —
In an emotional and patriotic moment during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s roadshow in Vadodara, Gujarat, the family of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, a decorated officer in the Indian Army, showered flower petals on him in a gesture full of respect and national pride.
As PM Modi’s convoy made its way through crowded streets lined with cheering citizens, Colonel Qureshi’s family stood among them, waving and offering floral tributes. Their gesture was more than ceremonial—it was a deeply personal display of gratitude for the Prime Minister and recognition of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers.
What made the moment even more special was PM Modi’s recognition of the family. He bowed respectfully toward them, bringing smiles and tears to the eyes of those watching.
A Personal Connection in a Public Event
Colonel Qureshi’s father, Taj Mohammed Qureshi, recalled the moving encounter:
“He recognized us and folded his hands in greeting. We too responded with respect. It felt like an embrace from the leader of the nation.”
Her mother, Halima Qureshi, also expressed her admiration, saying:
“He is the leader of our country. We welcomed him with flowers, with all our heart.”
For the family, this moment was not just about politics, but about honoring leadership and sacrifice. The emotion was shared by onlookers, who saw it as a symbol of unity between the people and their leader.
A Heroic Role in Operation Sindoor
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi recently rose to national prominence during Operation Sindoor, India’s powerful military response to the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed 26 innocent lives. Colonel Qureshi served as co-chair of official media briefings, where her calm and authoritative presence made her a symbol of courage, discipline, and clarity under pressure.
Her role won admiration across the country, especially for representing Indian women in uniform with such strength and dignity.
Her twin sister, Shyna Sunsara, reflected on the emotional weight of the roadshow moment:
“When he bowed to us, it felt like he was speaking not just to us, but to the nation—saying that we are united and brave. It was unforgettable.”
Shyna also praised PM Modi’s support for women’s empowerment, crediting her sister as an inspiration to young girls and women across the country.
A Family of Patriots
Colonel Sofiya Qureshi was born in 1981 in Vadodara into a proud military family. Her grandfather served in the Indian Army, and her father fought in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Her military service is seen as a continuation of a legacy of national dedication.
Her brother, Sanjay Qureshi, said the moment felt surreal:
“It felt like a dream, to be recognized and greeted in this way. What Sofiya has done is not just for us but for every woman in this country.”
PM Modi’s Visit to Gujarat
The Prime Minister’s two-day visit to Gujarat came just after the successful execution of Operation Sindoor. During his roadshow from the airport to the Air Force Station, PM Modi was greeted by thousands waving flags, chanting slogans, and throwing flower petals.
In addition to the emotional highlights of the day, PM Modi is also scheduled to launch and lay foundation stones for development projects worth nearly ₹83,000 crore in the state. These include infrastructure upgrades, urban development, and energy sector initiatives.
A Moment That Captured the Nation’s Heart
While the grand announcements and massive crowd turnout were significant, it was the Qureshi family’s quiet tribute that became the soul of the event. It reminded people across the country of the deep bonds between soldiers, their families, and the leaders they serve under.
This moment—of a family honoring the Prime Minister and being acknowledged in return—symbolized the unbreakable spirit of India, where respect, unity, and pride in service to the nation shine through even in a simple shower of petals.
