Phoenix Marketcity Pune Celebrates the Spirit of India with Shades of Valor
Pune 16th August 2025: Phoenix Marketcity Pune came alive with patriotic fervor as it hosted Shades of Valor, a heartfelt tribute to the nation’s armed forces as part of its #CelebratingNationsPride initiative. The event brought together senior dignitaries alongside students and art enthusiasts in a meaningful celebration of India’s spirit, transforming the space into a setting where creativity and national pride stood side by side.
The occasion featured a striking hyper realistic rangoli created by artist Asavari Lingade and a series of patriotic paintings curated by Art Plus Connect. This tribute to the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force was inaugurated by two distinguished defenders of the nation Lt. General Sudarshan Hasabnis (PVSM, VSM, ADC, Retd Deputy Chief of Army Staff) and Major Prajakta Desai, India’s first woman UAV Observer Pilot. Their presence added depth to the celebration as guests paused to reflect on the courage and commitment of India’s armed forces while admiring the scale and intricacy of the artworks.
The day’s proceedings began with the arrival of the dignitaries at the North Gate, accompanied by cadets in a ceremonial march to view the paintings before moving to the Rangoli area for the formal inauguration. A ribbon cutting and lamp lighting ceremony took place in the presence of over 100 students from Eon Gyanankur School Kharadi and The Little Millennium School who carried tricolor balloons and flags.
Speaking at the event Major Prajakta Desai said “Witnessing such a magnificent work of art that honours our Indian Army, Navy and Air Force is truly heartwarming and being part of this celebration at Phoenix Marketcity Pune. I am grateful to the motherland where I was born, and I believe each of us carries a responsibility towards it. Whether in uniform or not every Indian can serve by being a good citizen. And when we meet a soldier, we should thank them from the heart. It is through such respect and responsibility that we will shape the New India.”
Lt. General Sudarshan Hasabnis added “Pune has always been a city of heritage and pride, and Phoenix Marketcity has created a platform where people from all over the country can come together to celebrate that spirit. It was a privilege to be part of this occasion, and I congratulate the team for hosting such a meaningful event. I hope celebrations of national pride continue here, inspiring each of us to contribute to our city and our nation.”
The event left a strong impression on partners and visitors alike. Yash Shah, Regional Head Marketing, Little Millennium Education Pvt. Ltd., Pune expressed appreciation for the opportunity to be part of a patriotic gathering and for enabling children to be felicitated by dignitaries who have served the country, adding that he looked forward to more such collaborations in the future. Shailey Mishra from EON Gyanankur English Medium School spoke about the valuable life lessons students gained from interacting with the guests, calling it an enriching and memorable experience that will stay with them for years. Loyal patron Megha Sharma described the celebration as “a beautiful surprise” during her shopping visit, praising the organisation and expressing her admiration for Phoenix Marketcity Pune’s commitment to hosting events with substance and relevance.
Anshuman Bharadwaj, Senior Centre Director–Phoenix [Pune Malls] said “At Phoenix Marketcity Pune, we believe in creating experiences that go beyond shopping and connect deeply with our community’s values. Shades of Valor was our tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces, and a way to inspire the next generation to take pride in their role in nation-building. We were honoured to welcome such distinguished guests and to see the joy and pride this celebration sparked among our patrons.”
Shades of Valor concluded with a sense of reflection and pride, reminding all present of the values that bind the nation and the shared responsibility of preserving and honoring them.