New Delhi. 05 January 2025. Ten days to the Army Day and who better than the iconic military leader Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, fondly known as Sam Bahadur, to begin our journey of homage to the heroes in olive green. A soldier celebrated by his countrymen and respected even by his adversaries, Field Marshal Shamsherji Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw remains a towering figure in India’s military history.
Born on 3 April 1914, in Amritsar, Punjab, to Parsi parents who migrated from Gujarat, Manekshaw’s journey was extraordinary. After excelling in academics, his rebellious streak led him to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, becoming part of its inaugural batch in 1932. Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1934, his illustrious career spanned four decades, five wars, and innumerable milestones.
Field Marshal Manekshaw’s career was marked by his bravery and strategic genius, earning him recognition from the very beginning. During World War II, while serving in Burma, he displayed exemplary courage and earned the Military Cross for gallantry. Rising through the ranks, he became the first Indian Director of Military Operations and held key positions in the tumultuous years post-Partition, showcasing his exceptional planning and leadership skills.
As Chief of the Army Staff, Manekshaw’s legacy was cemented during the Indo-Pak War of 1971, where his masterful strategy led to India’s swift and decisive victory, culminating in the creation of Bangladesh. The war saw the surrender of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers—an unparalleled feat that showcased his tactical brilliance and leadership. Declining the honor of accepting Pakistan’s surrender himself, he magnanimously allowed Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Aurora to take the lead in Dhaka, exemplifying his humility.
Known for his wit, charisma, and forthrightness, Sam Bahadur left an indelible mark on the Indian Armed Forces. His famous quote, “A ‘Yes man’ is a dangerous man… He can never become a leader nor ever be respected,” continues to inspire leaders across all walks of life.
Manekshaw was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the five-star rank of Field Marshal in 1973, following his distinguished service during the 1971 war. His contributions earned him the Padma Vibhushan, one of India’s highest civilian honour. Post-retirement, he settled in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, where he remained a revered figure until his passing on 27 June 2008 at the age of 94.
In 2025, as the nation commemorates Sam Bahadur’s 111th birth anniversary, his influence remains omnipresent. The release of the film Sam Bahadur last year has rekindled his extraordinary story for a new generation, showcasing his leadership, courage, and humanity on the big screen. His legacy as a soldier, strategist, and statesman continues to inspire the Indian Army and millions of Indians who look up to him as a national hero.
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw is not just a name in history but a symbol of courage and excellence that transcends generations. As Vijay Diwas reminds the nation of his pivotal role in the 1971 victory, his ideals of leadership and service remain a guiding light for the men and women in uniform even today. This Army Day, we salute Sam Bahadur, a soldier who epitomized the spirit of service and sacrifice, forever leaving his mark on India’s history and its people.
