In a heartwarming moment that’s taken social media by storm, Anup Singh, an IPS officer, pinned stars on the shoulders of his father, Janardan Singh, celebrating his promotion from constable to Sub-Inspector in the Uttar Pradesh Police. The image, shared by Anup himself, captures a rare blend of pride, love, and legacy, resonating with millions across India. Anup Singh’s journey, intertwined with his father’s sacrifices, is a powerful story of grit and gratitude.
Janardan Singh’s life was a testament to perseverance. Hailing from a modest family in Uttar Pradesh, he joined the police as a constable, earning a meager salary that barely covered essentials. Long shifts and societal pressures didn’t deter him from dreaming big for his son. “I wanted Anup to achieve what I couldn’t,” he once told a colleague, as recalled on X. Night after night, he saved every rupee, ensuring Anup had access to books and coaching. His unwavering support fueled Anup’s ambition, leading him to crack the UPSC exam and become an IPS officer, now serving as Superintendent of Police (Technical Services) in Lucknow.
Anup’s path wasn’t easy either. Growing up in a small town, he faced financial constraints and the weight of expectations. “My father’s discipline inspired me,” Anup shared in a 2023 interview. Studying under dim streetlights and juggling part-time tutoring, he honed his focus, earning a coveted spot in the Indian Police Service. Today, stationed in Lucknow, he oversees critical operations, while Janardan serves in the CID-CB, a testament to their shared commitment to public service.
The viral moment came in April 2025, when Janardan’s promotion to Sub-Inspector was announced. Anup, beaming with pride, visited his father’s unit to pin the stars himself, a gesture that symbolized their reversed roles—son as boss, father as subordinate. The photo, posted on X, garnered thousands of likes, with users like @UPPolice calling it “a moment of eternal pride.” Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath praised the duo, noting their contribution to UP’s 2.5 lakh-strong police force, which handles 1.5 million cases annually.
This wasn’t just a personal milestone; it reflected the ethos of Uttar Pradesh, where 60% of police personnel come from humble backgrounds, per 2024 data. Janardan’s promotion, after decades of service, highlights the force’s merit-based system, while Anup’s rise underscores the power of education—UP produced 12% of India’s IPS officers in 2023. Their story echoes others, like Haryana’s ASI Satbir Singh, whose son became an SP, showing how families climb ladders through grit.
Challenges persisted. Janardan faced health issues from years of fieldwork, and Anup navigated the high-pressure IPS role amid rising crime rates—UP reported 3.2 lakh cognizable offenses in 2024. Yet, their bond remained unbreakable. “He’s my hero,” Anup wrote on X, crediting his father’s sacrifices. The moment also sparked conversations about police reforms, with calls for better support for constables, who earn ₹25,000-₹40,000 monthly.
Anup Singh and Janardan Singh’s story is a beacon for every Indian dreaming beyond their circumstances. It’s a reminder that behind every uniform lies a tale of struggle and triumph. As their photo continues to inspire, it urges us to honor the unsung heroes who shape our nation’s backbone, one star at a time.