Punjab Newsline, Shimla-
As Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla marks its 35th Raising Day, a unique military-civil cultural collaboration added significance to the celebrations. In association with the Amateur Dramatic Club, Shimla, an engrossing and humorous theatrical production ‘Project Turmoil’ was staged at the historic Gothic Hall of the Gaiety Theatre on 18 and 19 September 2025. The play was also performed at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun on 12th & 13th September.
Directed by Anil Walia and Siya Minocha, ‘Project Turmoil’ is a lighthearted 1960s spy escapade packed with humour, confusion and larger-than-life characters.
Storyline of the play revolves around the disappearance of a rogue agent and a secret file, drawing CIA and KGB spies to London’s Ritz Carlton. What follows is a comic storm of disguises, mistaken identities and double agents. An unsuspecting couple, an aspiring James Bond and a mysterious hotel manager add to the chaos. The result is a hilarious 1960s tale where espionage meets total turmoil.
The play brought together distinguished Army officers of ARTRAC and accomplished civilian artists on one platform, seamlessly blending the values of discipline, creativity and artistry. This rare confluence highlighted the shared heritage, mutual respect and enduring bond between the armed forces and the citizens they serve.
The cast features Tarini Sud, Krishna Sharma, Devya Jubbal, Gagan Chaudhary, Lt. Col. Vikram Singh, Neha Desai Bakshi, Chandrajit Singh, Jyotika T Vashista, Col. Ankush Gupta, and Maj. General Ajay Feroz Shah. The backstage team include Mr. Ajit Butail, Mr. Girish Minocha and Mr. Manmohan Manchanda.
On 19th September the event was graced by Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC, along with senior officials, veterans, dignitaries and local populace. The audience witnessed a powerful performance that not only showcased the artistic spirit of Shimla but also reflected ARTRAC's continuous commitment to strengthening ties with society beyond its military responsibilities.
As ARTRAC completes 35 years of dedicated service to the Indian Army, this Raising Day celebration stands as a reminder of its dual legacy - one of professional excellence in shaping military training and doctrine and the other of fostering cultural harmony and military-civil fusion.