Surya Kiran Air Show Sought at Lonar, Ajanta and Ellora

A proposal to fly the Indian Air Force's aerobatic team over three of Maharashtra's best known destinations has gone from one Union ministry to another. Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State with Independent Charge for Ayush and Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, has written to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh asking that the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Display Team be allowed to perform at Lonar, Ajanta and Ellora.

What has been requested

The letter asks the Defence Ministry to clear displays on any one of the three days from the twenty-third to the twenty-fifth of November 2026, and to issue the necessary directions to the authorities concerned. Alongside the flying, the minister has proposed associated activities meant to inspire young people.

Why the Surya Kiran team

The team flies for the Indian Air Force and is known for precision, skill and tightly coordinated manoeuvres in formation. The minister's letter argues that its displays put India's aviation strength on public view, draw large crowds and push young people to look at careers in the air force.

The three destinations

• Lonar Crater Lake, in the Buldhana district of Maharashtra, a lake formed inside a crater whose water is both saline and alkaline. Its unusual geology and ecology bring visitors from across the country.
• Ajanta Caves, recognised the world over for their painting and sculpture and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Ellora Caves, also on the UNESCO World Heritage List, celebrated for rock cut architecture of outstanding cultural and historical value.

The purpose behind it

The proposal is pitched as a tourism measure. An aerobatic display would add a distinctive attraction at sites that already draw visitors, and would place Maharashtra's natural, cultural and heritage tourism before a wider audience. At the same time it would showcase the country's aviation capability. The decision now rests with the Ministry of Defence, which has been asked to grant approval and direct the authorities concerned to make the arrangements.