Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni will be hoisting the Indian Flag on the occasion of Independence Day in Leh in the newly-created union territory of Ladakh. The 38-year old is presently stationed at Khrew in the Pulwama district of Jammu & Kashmir along with his Territorial Army battalion.

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Dhoni had made himself unavailable for the ongoing West Indies tour and took a two-month break from cricket as he joined his unit as an honorary lieutenant colonel in the Indian Army to fulfil his duties from July 30. He is also a qualified paratrooper after having completed five parachute training jumps. The Territorial Army is deployed in the south Kashmir region and according to Defence sources, Dhoni is scheduled to travel along with his regiment to Leh on August 10.

The Indian Government revoked Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5 and in the process withdrew the special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The state was divided into two territories through legislation passed by both Houses of Parliament. MS Dhoni was present in Kashmir at that time and remained in the valley throughout the build-up exercise. All communication networks across the state were discontinued by the central government to prohibit any break down prior to the declaration.

Dhoni, the true icon

Fans took to the social media and thanks Dhoni, the messiah for being present in the Kashmir during such an important time of the country. His positive energy was influential for such a bold and historic decision of the country, according to the followers.

A senior Army official explained why Dhoni has been chosen for the prestigious act. “Dhoni is a brand ambassador of the Indian Army. He has engaged in motivating members of his unit and has often been playing football and volleyball with the soldiers. He is also undertaking battle training exercises with the corps. He will remain in the valley till August 15,” said a senior army official. The officials have not yet disclosed the exact location where the Flag will be unfurled.