Dehradun, August 27, 2011: Their looks were an easy give away of
their identities. For the Gentlemen Cadets their peculiar hairstyle will not be
a hurdle in seamlessly mingling with the civilian population, as in a quiet but
significant move, the Indian Army has decided to give trendier haircut to the
cadets of Indian Military Academy (IMA).
The Gentlemen Cadets used to stand out among a crowd of
civilians due to the hairstyle termed as ‘Katora Cut’- in which top of the head
is given a flat appearance while the rest of the hair are shaved off. The
standing out could sometimes be a security concern and also a reason of
ridicule for the cadets.
“The change has been brought from this year onwards. The
cadets will now be allowed to keep short hair on the top of their ears,” a
senior officer at the academy said.
The happiest are the cadets. With increasing interaction
with their civil counterparts, the haircut was often used to give them “funny”
appearance. On the days of “liberties”, when the cadets are allowed to go out
in the town, the to-be officers could not enjoy in anonymity as their looks
give away their identity.
“We are definitely happy,” said a beaming cadet. About 1800
cadets are imparted training at the academy and thereafter they are
commissioned into the army as officers. The cadets were expected to go to the
barber inside the academy on a weekly basis to maintain the sharpness of the
cut.
“Going to the barber was a part of our weekly routine. We
will be making lesser rounds now,” another cadet quipped.
The haircut has been in vogue in the Army institutions owing
to its low maintenance. It is easier to carry while doing rigorous physical
workout and looks good on formal wear without too much styling.
The barbers at the Academy, who have been around for years,
are also gearing up for the new demand from the premier military institution.
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