Soldiers fulfil fallen comrade’s role at sister’s wedding after his death in Arunachal Pradesh. Watch

In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity, Indian Army soldiers in Himachal Pradesh stood in for a fallen comrade to fulfil his duties as a brother at his sister’s wedding. The ceremony took place in Bharli village of Sirmaur district, where locals and guests were moved to tears as the soldiers stepped forward to ensure that the bride, Aradhana, received the farewell her late brother would have given her.

Aradhana’s brother, Ashish Kumar, had been killed in action in February 2024 during Operation Alert in Arunachal Pradesh. His absence was deeply felt on the day of her wedding, which otherwise unfolded peacefully in the scenic surroundings of the hill state, NDTV reported.

To honour his memory, soldiers from Ashish’s regiment, along with several former servicemen from Paonta and Shillai, travelled to Bharli to take part in the wedding. They took on the role traditionally held by the bride’s brother — accompanying her to the mandap and ensuring every ritual was completed with care.

As part of their tribute, the soldiers also presented Aradhana with a fixed deposit as a wedding gift, symbolising their support and affection for her in the absence of her brother. Those present at the ceremony said the moment left many in tears, describing it as both humbling and unforgettable, according to the media outlet.

When the ceremony concluded, the soldiers escorted Aradhana to her in-laws’ home, completing the role of a brother with dignity and respect.