New Delhi: Horses have been a vital part of India's magnificent history and culture, according to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who lauded their contribution and services in the armed forces. The prime minister also complimented 'Virat,' the horse part of the President's Bodyguard Unit, which retired following the 73rd Republic Day parade earlier this year, news agency PTI reported.
Horses have been a vital part of "our rich and magnificent history and culture," Modi said in a letter to Colonel (retd) H S Sodhi.
Sodhi had already written to Prime Minister Modi, complimenting and thanking him from the bottom of his heart for his devotion for 'Virat' on the occasion of Republic Day.
Sodhi wrote to the prime minister in his letter that by honouring the services of 'Virat,' he had made the Republic Day procession distinctive and unforgettable.
Modi stated in his letter to Sodhi that the Sun God, according to Hindu beliefs, also rides a chariot drawn by seven horses.
The prime minister went on to say that legends of brave warriors with strong bonds with their horses, like as Maharana Pratap and Rani Lakshmi Bai, are widely known.
According to Sodhi, Modi remarked in the letter that 'Virat' and other valiant horses of cavalry units are still carrying on this unique heritage.
The prime minister expressed confidence that horse units and the armed services will uphold this historic legacy.
Earlier, at the 73rd Republic Day parade, Prime Minister Modi patted Virat's forehead with love.
In the 'Mann Ki Baat' show, Prime Minister Modi also lauded 'Virat.'
'Virat,' the President's Bodyguard Commandant Colonel Anup Tiwary's steed, appeared in 13 Republic Day parades.
On the eve of Army Day, January 15, 'Virat' received the Chief of the Army Staff Commendation, making him the first horse to win the honour for great service and ability.
(With PTI Inputs)