Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Death Anniversary: Remembering the Architect of India’s 1971 Victory Over Pakistan

June 27 marks the death anniversary of Indian military legend Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, popularly known as ‘Sam Bahadur’. He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal and led India to victory over Pakistan in the 1971 India-Pakistan War.

 

 

 

One of India’s most celebrated military leaders, Manekshaw had a distinguished career spanning four decades. He fought in five wars, beginning with World War II in 1942. As the Chief of the Army Staff, he led the Indian Army to its historic victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan War, which resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh in just 13 days.

 

 

He was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry in 1942, the Padma Bhushan in 1968, and the Padma Vibhushan in 1972.

 

 

 

 

 

Sam Manekshaw was born in Amritsar, Punjab, to Parsi parents, Hormusji Manekshaw, a doctor by profession, and Heerabai Manekshaw. He completed his schooling in Punjab and at Sherwood College, Nainital. He enrolled at the Indian Military Academy after his father refused to send him to London for higher studies. Manekshaw was among the first batch of cadets at the Academy, known as “The Pioneers”.

 

 

After retiring from the Army, Field Marshal Manekshaw settled in Wellington, Tamil Nadu. He passed away on June 27, 2008, at the age of 94.