Biography of Sam Manekshaw:
Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, popularly known as Sam Manekshaw, was an Indian military officer who served as the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army. He was born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, British India (now in Punjab, India), and he passed away on June 27, 2008, in Wellington, Tamil Nadu, India.
 |
| Sam Manekshaw |
Early Life and Military Career:
Sam Manekshaw came from a Parsi family and was commissioned into the British Indian Army in 1934. He served in the British Indian Army during World War II and received his first Military Cross (MC) for his bravery in the Burma campaign. After India gained independence in 1947, he chose to continue his service in the Indian Army.
Contributions and Achievements of Sam Manekshaw:
1. Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48: Manekshaw served with distinction during the first war between India and Pakistan in 1947-48. He was appointed as the Commanding Officer of the 8th Gorkha Rifles and played a significant role in India’s victory.
2. Indo-China War of 1962: During the Sino-Indian War, Manekshaw was the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command. Despite the challenges faced by the Indian Army, his leadership and strategic acumen were highly regarded.
3. Indo-Pakistani War of 1965: Manekshaw served as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command during the 1965 war with Pakistan. He played a crucial role in the Battle of Longewala, which was one of the significant victories for India during the conflict.
4. Bangladesh Liberation War (1971): Manekshaw’s most notable moment came during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. As the Chief of the Army Staff, he oversaw the military campaign that led to the creation of Bangladesh. His strategic planning and leadership were instrumental in India’s decisive victory over Pakistan, resulting in the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh.
Awards and Honors to Sam Manekshaw:
Sam Manekshaw was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1969 and the Padma Vibhushan in 1972, two of India’s highest civilian honors. He was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in recognition of his exemplary service and leadership during the 1971 war, becoming the first and only Field Marshal of the Indian Army.
Legacy:
Sam Manekshaw is remembered as one of India’s greatest military leaders. His professionalism, wit, and charismatic personality endeared him to both the military and civilian population. He is widely respected for his role in shaping the modern Indian Army and for his pivotal contributions to India’s military successes.