Varanasi, Oct 10 (ANI): People from all walks of life, particularly from armed forces, gathered on the banks of River Ganges in holy city of Varanasi to observe Akashdeep (skylight) to commemorate soldier deaths by hoisting lit lanterns. Serving and retired personnel of defence and paramilitary forces joined hands with the residents to mark this ritual which is observed in the Hindu month of Karthik every year. The lanterns would be lit throughout the month to honour soldiers, who laid down their lives in service of motherland since independence in 1947. Indian Army Officer, Brigadier Virendra Singh, hoped that it would inspire people for the service to the motherlands. The ritual dates back to the ancient rimes, when it was observed to honour the sacrifices of the dead soldiers in the epic Mahabharata war
