After graduating in Nashik, Capt Bharat Bhardwaj proposed to his fiancée beside a helicopter at the ceremony venue. The viral moment, though widely praised online, is now under scrutiny over military protocol and decorum.
An Army officer whose helicopter-side marriage proposal to his fiance after a graduation ceremony in Maharashtra’s Nashik went viral on social media may now face disciplinary action, sources said.
Capt Bharat Bhardwaj, who recently completed his training as an Army Aviation pilot, is likely to be issued a show-cause notice, with officials viewing the episode as a possible breach of military protocol and decorum.
The proposal took place shortly after the Passing Out Parade and convocation ceremony at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) in Nashik, where trainee pilots were celebrating the completion of their training programme.
VIRAL MOMENT AFTER GRADUATION
Videos and photographs from the event showed Bhardwaj leading his fiance, Aarushi, towards a helicopter stationed at the venue.
As family members, fellow officers and guests watched, he went down on one knee and presented her with a ring.
The proposal took place in front of the helicopter that symbolised the culmination of his years of military aviation training. Aarushi accepted the proposal, drawing applause and cheers from those gathered at the venue.
The couple embraced as spectators celebrated the moment, which quickly spread across social media platforms.
SOCIAL MEDIA PRAISE
The video attracted widespread attention online, with many users describing it as a rare blend of personal joy and professional achievement.
Several social media users praised Bhardwaj for choosing a military graduation ceremony as the setting for the proposal, while others said the moment represented the beginning of two journeys, one in service to the nation and another in his personal life.
Many were also touched by the reaction of those present, saying the formal military atmosphere briefly gave way to a heartfelt celebration.
PROTOCOL QUESTIONS
However, sources said Army authorities are examining the circumstances surrounding the proposal.
Officials are understood to have viewed the act as inconsistent with military protocol and decorum, particularly because it took place immediately after an official military ceremony and involved equipment and premises linked to the graduation event.
