'My Beloved Wayanad Was Struck By...': Army’s Rescue Efforts Inspire Heartfelt Letter From Class 3 Student

A Class 3 student in Kerala has written a heartfelt letter to the Indian Army, inspired by their rescue efforts following devastating landslides in Wayanad. The letter written by “Master Rayan”, highlights the child’s aspiration to join the armed forces one day.

After days of torrential rains in the southern state, the disaster struck Wayanad before dawn on Tuesday, resulting in the tragic loss of over 300 lives and injuries to many more. In his letter, Rayan, a student at a private school, expressed pride in witnessing the Army’s dedication to rescuing those trapped under the debris.

‘Aspire to join Indian Army’

“Dear Indian Army, my beloved Wayanad was struck by a massive landslide, creating havoc and destruction. I felt proud and happy to see you rescuing people who were stuck under debris,” Rayan wrote in Malayalam. “I just saw the video in which you were having biscuits to sate your hunger and building a bridge. That sight moved me deeply and I aspire to join the Indian Army one day and protect my nation,” he added.

The landslides in Wayanad, known for its picturesque tea estates, were the worst since the catastrophic floods in 2018 that claimed around 400 lives. Rayan mentioned seeing a video of soldiers eating biscuits to sustain themselves while building a bridge, which deeply moved him. He added, “I aspire to join the Indian Army one day and protect my nation.”

The Indian Army responded to Rayan’s letter, thanking him for his inspiring words. “Your heartfelt words have deeply touched us. In times of adversity, we aim to be a beacon of hope, and your letter reaffirms this mission. Heroes like you inspire us to give our utmost. We eagerly await the day you don the uniform and stand alongside us. Together, we will make our nation proud,” the Army wrote back.