In a remarkable display of national pride and solidarity, seventeen newborn girls in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, have been named 'Sindoor' in honor of "Operation Sindoor," India's military operation launched to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. This act of naming reflects the deep emotions and patriotic sentiments stirred by the nation's response to the tragic event.

The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, saw terrorists open fire near the popular tourist town in Anantnag district, resulting in the death of 26 people, mostly tourists, and injuries to several others. The attack sparked outrage across the country and prompted swift action from the Indian armed forces.

On May 7, the Indian Army launched "Operation Sindoor" to dismantle terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. The operation involved missile strikes on nine terror targets, including training centers of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad, some of which were linked to previous attacks on India. Indian officials described the operation as a "fitting retaliation" and a "calibrated response to continued cross-border terrorism".

The successful execution of "Operation Sindoor" evoked a strong sense of national pride and unity among Indians. In Kushinagar, families who welcomed newborn girls around the time of the operation decided to name them 'Sindoor' as a tribute to the armed forces and a symbol of sacrifice and resilience.

'Sindoor' (vermilion) holds a significant place in Hindu tradition as it is applied by married women and is considered a visual marker of their marital status. In this context, the name has taken on a broader meaning, representing solidarity with women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam attack and symbolizing national unity.

Dr. RK Shahi, Principal of Kushinagar Medical College, confirmed that seventeen baby girls born in the hospital between May 9 and 10 were named 'Sindoor' by their families. He noted that the name reflects the collective emotion and pride felt across the region and that "Sindoor has become a symbol of sacrifice and national unity after India's counter-terror operation in Pakistan".

Parents who named their daughters 'Sindoor' expressed a range of emotions and motivations. Archana Shahi from Bhedihari village, whose baby was born on May 9, said she named her daughter 'Sindoor' as a tribute to the soldiers and because the name now stands for bravery. Her husband, Ajit Shahi, added that the name is a source of inspiration. Madan Gupta from Padrauna shared that his daughter-in-law wanted to name her newborn 'Sindoor' to remember the operation and honor the armed forces. Vyasmuni from Bhathahi Babu village hoped that his daughter would understand the real meaning of the word 'Sindoor' when she grows up and fulfill her duties toward her country. Priyanka Devi, a resident of Nahar Chapra village, said that "'Sindoor' is no longer a simple word… it now symbolizes our emotions".

The naming of these newborns as 'Sindoor' marks a break from tradition in many Hindu families in the region, where newborns are typically named by their paternal aunt. Social activist Rajesh Mani described the trend as an example of "collective emotion and shared feeling of pride," noting that many families in the area have members serving in the Army. He expressed hope that these babies would grow up into strong women willing to serve the nation.

The "Operation Sindoor" was not only a military response but also included non-military actions. These actions reportedly included diplomatic efforts to isolate Pakistan, suspending the Indus Water Treaty, and halting trade at the Attari-Wagah border.

The act of naming these seventeen newborns 'Sindoor' serves as a powerful reminder of the Pahalgam attack, the bravery of the Indian armed forces, and the resilience and unity of the Indian people. It encapsulates the collective emotion, pride, and hope for a secure future, and transforms a traditional symbol into a mark of national honor.