IAF Roasts Pakistan with ‘Operation Sindoor’ Dinner Menu on Air Force Day

The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked its 93rd Air Force Day with a creative twist that left social media buzzing. A dinner menu served to officers featured dishes like Rawalpindi Chicken Tikka Masala, Bahawalpur Naan, and Balakot Tiramisu—each cleverly named after key Pakistani locations targeted during India’s military operations.

In what many see as a symbolic roast of Pakistan, the IAF’s dinner menu drew inspiration from Operation Sindoor—India’s successful air campaign that struck Pakistan’s Bholari airbase and destroyed Lashkar-e-Taiba terror camps in Muridke.

Images of the viral menu surfaced online, shared by defence veterans and journalists on X (formerly Twitter). While the authenticity of the menu remains unverified, the names have already caught public attention for their witty reference to India’s past victories.

A Strategic Mockery on the Plate

The menu’s courses appeared to correspond to major targets of IAF’s air missions. The main course featured Rawalpindi Chicken Tikka Masala and Bahawalpur Naan, while the dessert section offered Balakot Tiramisu, Muzaffarabad Mousse, and Muridke Muffin—all names echoing key Pakistani cities hit during India’s retaliatory strikes.

Symbolic Call Signs and Aerial Display

During preparations for the celebrations in Agra, aircraft like the Lockheed Martin C-130J and Antonov An-32 were seen flying with call signs “Rafiqui” and “Shehbaz.” These were interpreted as subtle jabs—referring to Pakistan’s Rafiqui airbase and its Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The Rafiqui base, named after 1965 war hero Squadron Leader Sarfaraz Ahmed Rafiqui, is home to JF-17 and Mirage fighter squadrons and plays a key role in Pakistan’s air defence operations.

Public Reaction and Symbolism

While the menu’s authenticity hasn’t been confirmed, the creative representation of India’s military achievements sparked both amusement and admiration across social platforms. The move was widely perceived as a light-hearted yet patriotic celebration of India’s air dominance and tactical prowess.

Conclusion

Whether symbolic or real, the IAF’s themed dinner menu perfectly captured the spirit of victory and resilience that defines India’s air warriors. The witty culinary tribute serves as a reminder that India’s military strength extends beyond the battlefield—right to the dinner table.