Army Chief to visit temple in Nepal that has Gen Bipin Rawat bell

New Delhi: In a moment of profound respect and reverence, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, is likely to visit the Muktinath Temple in Nepal this week.

The temple, situated in the Mustang District, holds a special place for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, and it is here that a significant tribute to the late General Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), is permanently enshrined.

The Gen Rawat Bell, installed at Muktinath in February 2023, serves as a lasting memorial to General Rawat, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in December 2021. This bell is more than just a symbol; it represents General Rawat’s immense contributions to the Indian Armed Forces and his pivotal role in strengthening the defence and cultural ties between India and Nepal. The installation of the bell was also a gesture of the deep respect and admiration shared by both nations.

The bell was inaugurated during the visit of four former Indian Army Chiefs—General (Retd) Vishwa Nath Sharma, General (Retd) JJ Singh, General (Retd) Deepak Kapoor, and General (Retd) Dalbir Singh Suhag—who travelled to Nepal to mark the 260th Nepali Army Day celebrations and attend the Chiefs Conclave. This powerful gesture underscores the enduring bond between the Indian and Nepali Armies, built on mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to peace and security in the region.

For Indian pilgrims visiting Muktinath, the Gen Rawat Bell now stands as a tribute not only to a respected military leader but also to the unbreakable ties between the two great armies. The bell further embodies the unity and spiritual connections that link India and Nepal—two nations whose histories, cultures, and futures are intertwined.

General Dwivedi’s visit to Muktinath comes as a continuation of the legacy of General Bipin Rawat and reaffirms India’s commitment to deepening its ties with Nepal, especially in the defence and cultural spheres. His presence at this sacred site will be a moment of reflection on the shared sacrifices and achievements of both nations and will serve to strengthen the friendship between their armed forces.