SOURCE: AFI

Amid the spiritual fervor of the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, an unexpected attraction has captured the imagination of millions of devotees and visitors – the ‘Tejas Pandal’. Inspired by India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft, HAL Tejas, this pandal was meant to symbolize national pride and technological achievement. However, upon closer inspection, the design has sparked discussions for reasons beyond the anticipated.
The ‘Tejas Pandal’, while initially conceived to honor the HAL Tejas, has instead taken on a hybrid appearance, reminiscent of both the Chinese-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder and the American F-16 Fighting Falcon, aircraft not part of the Indian Air Force’s current inventory. This unexpected design convergence has not only made the pandal a talking point but also a subject of curiosity and critique among aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike.
The structure, erected with meticulous attention to detail, mimics the sleek aerodynamic lines and delta wings of modern fighter jets. However, instead of purely reflecting the Tejas’s unique silhouette, it incorporates elements like the canopy design of the JF-17 and the air intake of the F-16. This blend has led to a vibrant debate on social media, with some appreciating the creativity in blending international aircraft aesthetics, while others express confusion and disappointment over the deviation from the original intent.
The Maha Kumbh, known for its confluence of spiritual, cultural, and now, seemingly, technological elements, has once again provided a platform for India’s diverse expressions of identity and innovation. The pandal, despite its controversial design, has become a photographic hotspot. Devotees and tourists alike are seen posing with the structure, celebrating the festival’s theme of unity and diversity, albeit in an unanticipated manner.
Mahant Brijbhushan Das Ji Maharaj, who played a significant role in bringing this concept to life, commented, “The idea was to inspire and to showcase India’s progress. While the pandal’s design might not strictly adhere to the Tejas, its message of self-reliance and innovation stands.” His statement reflects an attempt to look beyond the physical form to the underlying message of national pride and technological aspiration.
Public reactions have been mixed. On one hand, the pandal has been lauded for its sheer visual appeal and for sparking interest in aviation among the masses. On the other, there’s a sense of missed opportunity to showcase the actual Tejas, which embodies India’s journey towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing.