A unique and striking sight unfolded in Chhattisgarh during the auspicious festival of Vijayadashami. The bold and dynamic Superintendent of Police of Rajnandgaon district and prominent IPS officer Ankita Sharma picked up a modern AK-47 rifle while dressed in a traditional saree right after performing the customary weapon worship, proceeding to fire the weapon to test its striking capability. Known popularly among masses and colleagues as Lady Singham, Officer Sharma's fearless and powerful demeanour quickly went viral across various social media platforms. The tradition of worshipping weapons on Dussehra has a long-standing history in India, and police forces as well as security agencies routinely observe this ritual by offering prayers to their arms and equipment on this day.
Weapon Worship Ceremony at the Police Lines
In adherence to this established tradition, a special event was organised at the Rajnandgaon Police Lines. During this official gathering, SP Ankita Sharma performed the religious rituals herself. Immediately afterwards, she took hold of an AK-47 rifle and fired several rounds. Seeing a female police officer clad in a saree operating an advanced assault rifle captured widespread attention online, sparking conversations across the internet regarding her striking style. Beyond the popularity of this viral footage, however, it remains vital to understand that rigorous weapons training, adherence to strict security protocols, and professional competence form an indispensable part of a police officer's daily duties and responsibilities.
A Challenging Journey to Civil Services Success
Ankita Sharma belongs to the 2018 batch of the Chhattisgarh cadre of the Indian Police Service. Her name frequently dominates headlines across the state due to her uncompromising policing methods and strict maintenance of law and order. She is widely referred to in the police department as Lady Singham. Because of her administrative approach and active presence on social media platforms, she remains a constant subject of discussion. Born on June 25, 1990, in the Durg district of Chhattisgarh, Sharma secured the 203rd rank nationwide in the civil services examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission in 2017, earning her home cadre of Chhattisgarh. This achievement marked the culmination of a tough journey, as it was her third attempt at the prestigious exam. During her first attempt, she reached the main examination stage, but during her second attempt, she failed to clear even the preliminary examination.
Commanding Anti-Naxal Operations in Tough Terrains
Following her selection, Ankita Sharma received her initial posting in Bhatapara, Chhattisgarh. She also served as the City Superintendent of Police for Azad Chowk in Raipur. In May 2022, she was appointed as the Superintendent of Police for Khairagarh, earning the distinct honour of becoming the first female SP of the region. Furthermore, she successfully commanded anti-Naxal operations in the highly volatile and Naxal-affected Bastar division. Throughout her postings across the challenging geographical terrain and Naxal-hit districts of Chhattisgarh, she spearheaded multiple rigorous operations against criminals and insurgents alike. Her exceptional rapport with the general public combined with her firm administrative decisions earned her the respect of the police force under the moniker Lady Singham. At present, she serves as the police chief of Rajnandgaon district.
Significance of the Dussehra Weapon Worship
The tradition of worshipping weapons on Dussehra symbolises power, security, and a respectful dedication to one's duty. Within the police department, weapons and tactical equipment are venerated annually during this festival. The primary purpose behind this custom is both to preserve age-old traditions and to remind security personnel of their heavy responsibilities towards public safety. Ultimately, Ankita Sharma's video from Dussehra highlights the fascinating intersection between a police officer's traditional attire and her rigorous professional role. Yet, far beyond the confines of a viral video, her true identity is defined by her stellar policing career, her demanding duties, and her exemplary service record.
