From night shift to national spotlight: How a Surat security guard’s tribute to martyrs earned PM Modi’s salute, watch

Sometimes, life turns ordinary people into overnight inspirations. Hidden passions, nurtured quietly for years, unexpectedly find the light and transform identities in a single moment. For Jitendrasingh Rathod, a modest security guard in Surat, devotion - not ambition- led him to national recognition. What began as a personal mission of respect for India’s soldiers became a story that touched the Prime Minister’s Office itself.

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A Guardian of Memories!

Rathod works at SVNIT College, Surat, standing long night shifts with quiet discipline. But beyond his uniform lies a deeper commitment. For years, he has carefully collected photographs of Indian soldiers and martyrs, preserving their faces like a living archive of sacrifice.

Inspired by the spirit of the Armed Forces and India’s Republic Day traditions that honour martyrs at the National War Memorial, his collection became his heartfelt salute to the nation’s heroes. He never posted about it, never sought praise. It was simply his way of saying thank you.

The Call That Changed Everything

Just ten days before Republic Day, while on duty at a wedding function, his phone rang. The call was from the Prime Minister’s Office. Rathod was invited to attend the Republic Day Parade in Delhi - an honour reserved for extraordinary citizens. But reality hit hard.

He had only ₹102 in his bank account. With honesty, he shared his situation. Moved by his sincerity, officials arranged flight tickets, accommodation, and travel for him and his wife.

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A Salute Returned

At the parade, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi honoured citizens contributing quietly to the nation, Rathod stood overwhelmed - no longer just a guard, but a guardian of memories, recognized by the country he loved.

His story proves that true patriotism doesn’t shout. It quietly serves - and sometimes, the nation salutes back.