By Staff Sergeant Roman Rai, Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment
The participation of the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) Pipes and Drums in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2026 represents a landmark achievement in the Regiment’s history. Widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious military and cultural events, the Tattoo brings together military bands, massed pipes and drums and international performers in a world-class display set against the iconic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
This annual event attracts 250,000+ spectators to its live performances and reaches a global audience of around 100 million viewers through television broadcasts and digital media platforms. Selection to perform at the Tattoo is a significant honour, reflecting the highest standards of musical excellence, professionalism and military heritage. It offers a unique opportunity for the Regiment to showcase its traditions and capabilities on an international stage.
The QOGLR contingent comprised 20 musicians, including 12 pipers and 8 drummers, under the leadership of Pipe Major Roman Rai and Drum Major Newton Rai. This appearance is particularly significant as it marks the first participation by the Regiment at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo since the formation of the QOGLR Pipes and Drums in 1978. It stands as an historic milestone and a testament to the hard work, perseverance and exceptional standards of all those involved. The achievement will remain a source of considerable pride for the band, the Regiment and the wider military community for years to come.
Corporal Biraj Rai said; “Performing on this iconic world stage in front of millions of spectators was an experience that words can scarcely describe. Every evening, as we marched onto the Castle Esplanade as part of the massed bands, the energy of the crowd and the honour of representing the Regiment filled us with immense pride.”
Corporal Nabin Magar said; “Stepping onto the Esplanade, I knew in 48 years no one in the Brigade of Gurkhas had done this as QOGLR alone. That thought stayed with me every minute. When it was my turn to stand as Lone Piper, my heart raced. The crowd fell silent just me, my pipes, and the castle. As I played, I carried the whole Regiment with me.”
Lance Corporal Sandeep Gurung said; “Taking part in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2026 was one of the proudest experiences of my career. As a member of QOGLR Pipes and Drums, being part of the Band’s first-ever Tattoo participation was a historic honour. Performing on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade in front of more than 9,000 spectators and representing QOGLR, the Brigade of Gurkhas and the British Army made the experience truly unforgettable.”
