Who is Sam Bahadur? Learn more about the multi-hatted field marshal

Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, a name etched in the annals of Indian military history, stands as a towering figure whose life story is a testament to leadership, courage, and unyielding dedication to duty.  

A robust leader who's galore was yet to be witnessed by the era of 20th century, Sam Manekshaw's journey unfolded. A man who laid the foundation of a modern-day India Army. 

Childhood and Education 

On April 3, 1914, Sam Manekshaw was born in Amritsar, where his father was working as a doctor. His early years were influenced by a close-knit community and a rich cultural legacy because he was born into a Parsi family.  

Discipline, integrity, and a strong sense of duty were values he inherited from his Parsi heritage, and these qualities would serve as the cornerstone of his illustrious career. 

On April 22, 1939, Manekshaw wed Siloo Bode in Bombay. Sherry and Maya (later Maja), the couple's two daughters, were born in 1940 and 1945, respectively. 

Military Training and Commission 

After passing out from the prestigious Sherwood school, Sam Manekshaw joined Indian Military Academy. Sam Manekshaw's transition from academia to the hallowed halls of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) marked a defining chapter in his life. 

At the IMA, a comprehensive curriculum that honed not only his physical prowess but also instilled in him the values of leadership and camaraderie. Commissioned into the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Scots, his military training was rigorous, demanding, and shaped by the principles of discipline and dedication. 

Role in World War II 

The Burma Campaign of World War II emerged as a defining chapter in Manekshaw's military career. As a Brigadier, he played a crucial role in the Arakan Campaign, showcasing tactical brilliance in the dense jungles and challenging terrains. 

His ability to navigate the complexities of guerrilla warfare and counter insurgency operations sets him apart as a military strategist of exceptional calibre. 

Manekshaw's leadership during the Battle of Sittang Bridge in 1942 was particularly noteworthy. His decisive actions not only halted the Japanese advance but also earned him the Military Cross, a testament to his courage under fire. 

1971 Indo-Pak War and the Liberation of Bangladesh 

Sam Manekshaw's military career peaked in 1971 during the Indo-Pak War, which altered the subcontinent's geographical features. In his capacity as Chief of the Army Staff, Manekshaw was instrumental in organising and carrying out military operations that resulted in India's resounding victory and the establishment of Bangladesh as a whole. 

His strategic brilliance during the war was exemplified by the simultaneous offensive on the Western and Eastern fronts. The lightning-paced and coordinated military campaign, known as Operation Trident, resulted in the swift capitulation of Pakistani forces in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Manekshaw's leadership was instrumental in securing the surrender of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers, marking one of the largest surrenders since World War II. 

Promotion to Field Marshal 

The crowning moment of Sam Manekshaw's illustrious career came with his historic promotion to the rank of Field Marshal. In 1973, he became the first ever Field Marshal of independent India, a recognition of his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and significant contributions to the nation's defence. 

Man with Charismatic Leadership Style 

Sam Manekshaw's leadership style was distinguished by a special fusion of decisiveness, charisma, and a strong sense of accountability. He distinguished himself as a military leader of extraordinary calibre by his capacity to engender self-assurance and a feeling of purpose in people under his direction.  

Apart from his solemn and resolute demeanour, Manekshaw was also renowned for his clever sense of humour. In addition to lowering tensions, his ability to bring humour into difficult circumstances helped to humanise and make military leadership seem more approachable. 

Last Days of Sam Bahadur 

Sam Manekshaw lived a quiet and peaceful life in the valley of Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, where he got settled after his retirement. Sam Manekshaw served as a board member and chairman for various corporate houses, where he continued to give his leadership advice. 

At the age of 94, Manekshaw passed away at the Military Hospital in Wellington, Tamil Nadu, on June 27, 2008. Since then, December 16 is observed annually as "Vijay Diwas" in remembrance of the triumph brought about in 1971 under Manekshaw's direction. President Pratibha Patil unveiled a stamp featuring Manekshaw dressed as a field marshal.