Sam बहादुर : The Man, The Legend

          

Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was a renowned Indian military officer who served as the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army from 1969 to 1973. He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. He played a vital role in the 1962 Sino-Indian War and was awarded the Padma Bhushan for his services. He is best known for his leadership during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

Manekshaw was born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, Punjab, to Parsi parents. He was educated at Sherwood College in Nainital and later at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. He joined the Indian Army in 1934. He took part in World War II, Indo-Pakistan war of 1947, Sino- Indian War of 1962 and Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971.

Apart from his military career, Manekshaw was known for his wit and humor. He was famous for his one-liners. He retired from the Indian Army in 1973 and was subsequently appointed as the High Commissioner to Cyprus. He passed away on June 27, 2008, at the age of 94.

Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw is remembered as one of the greatest military leaders in Indian history. His contributions to the Indian Army and the nation's security and defense are immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of military leaders.