Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, also known as 'Sam Bahadur', was one of India's greatest military commanders, born on April 3, 1914, and passing away on June 27, 2008. As we celebrate his 104th anniversary, here are some interesting facts about the eighth Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army: 1. Manekshaw was born to Parsi parents in Amritsar and was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. 2. His father initially opposed his plans to join the army, suggesting he should pursue a career in medicine. Undeterred, Manekshaw took the entrance exam for the Indian Military Academy, paving the way for his illustrious career. 3. He served in the army for 40 years, participating in five wars: World War II, the 1947 India-Pakistan war, the 1962 Sino-Indian war, the 1965 India-Pakistan war, and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation war. 4. Before the 1971 war, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi asked about the army's readiness, he famously replied, "I am always ready, sweetheart," referencing his fondness for her Parsi connections. 5. Manekshaw survived several near-death experiences, including being seriously wounded in Burma during World War II, where he was saved by a Sikh sepoy named Sher Singh. 6. One of his famous quotes is, "If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or he is a Gorkha." 7. He humorously remarked that if he had chosen Pakistan during the partition, "Then Pakistan would win all the wars." 8. His service was extended by six months in 1972 on special orders from the President, which he complied with out of respect, despite his reluctance. Additionally, he was known for his strong stance against potential atrocities during warfare, advising against the humiliation of women in conquered territories. He also sent a message to Pakistani soldiers on December 9, 1971, urging them to surrender. Manekshaw guaranteed Indira Gandhi's victory in the 1971 war if she allowed him to handle the conflict on his terms.

by Pranav Kava in English Short Stories

Writen by Pranav Kava

Category Short Stories