New Delhi witnessed a strong display of national resolve as India's armed forces launched "Operation Sindoor" in the early hours of Wednesday, carrying out precision missile strikes on nine terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This decisive action was a direct retaliation for the horrific April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 people, mostly tourists. Targets included significant strongholds of major terrorist outfits, specifically Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke.

The operation, which came two weeks after the barbaric Pahalgam attack triggered widespread outrage, followed a high-level meeting on April 29 where Prime Minister Narendra Modi granted the armed forces "complete operational freedom" to determine the mode, targets, and timing of their response. This move underscored India's firm stance and zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism.

India's sporting fraternity was quick to laud "Operation Sindoor," with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar leading the chorus. Tendulkar posted on 'X', stating, "Fearless in unity. Boundless in strength. India's shield is her people. There's no room for terrorism in this world. We're ONE TEAM! Jai Hind." Former cricketers Virender Sehwag, Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, and Shikhar Dhawan also expressed their support. Sehwag poetically remarked, "Agar koi aap par patthar phenke toh uspar Phool Phenko, Lekin Gamle ke saath (If someone throws stones at you then respond with flowers but not without the pots they are planted in). Jai Hind," while Dhawan simply added, "India takes a stand against terrorism." Badminton ace Saina Nehwal, Olympic boxer Vijender Singh, and wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt also shared messages of patriotism and praise for the armed forces, with Yogeshwar highlighting "India's zero tolerance towards terrorism!! Jai Hind - Jai Jawan #sindoor." Chess player Vidith Gujrathi emphasized the need to punish brutal terrorist attacks, saying, "I am glad India responded firmly with Operation Sindoor after the horrific Pahalgam attack. Terrorism must never go unanswered. And what a beautiful name for the operation. Bharat Mata ki Jai!"

The film industry equally joined in praising the Indian armed forces. Actors Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, Allu Arjun, and Suniel Shetty were prominent voices. Akshay Kumar captioned a post with 'Operation Sindoor' as "Jai Hind. Jai Mahakaal." Kangana Ranaut, also a BJP MP, reiterated the government's "zero tolerance" stance on terrorism, wishing the forces safety and success. "Pushpa" star Allu Arjun and Tollywood megastar responded with "Jai Hind #OperationSindoor" and "Jai Hind 🇮🇳" respectively, while RRR actor Jr NTR prayed for the "safety & strength of our Indian Army in #OperationSindoor." Suniel Shetty firmly stated, "Zero tolerance. Total justice. #OperationSindoor." Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur commended India's response for showing the world "how responsible and confident it is in itself," describing "Operation Sindoor" as a precise hit without the rhetoric of war. Other notable personalities like Riteish Deshmukh, Madhur Bhandarkar, Nimrat Kaur (whose father was an Indian Army officer), Anupam Kher, and singer Adnan Sami also shared messages of unity, patriotism, and support for the armed forces, emphasizing "One nation, together we stand" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai."

Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India's unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring justice for its citizens, a sentiment echoed by a united nation's leaders, sports icons, and celebrities alike.