manekshaw-remembered-on-his-111th-birth-anniversary

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday paid homage to Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw on his 111th birth anniversary, describing him as “one of India’s most distinguished military commanders.”

 

Taking to X, Kharge lauded Manekshaw’s strategic brilliance and unwavering courage, which he said played a pivotal role in India’s decisive victory in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

 

“Our salutations to the memory of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. Fondly known as Sam Bahadur, his strategic brilliance and unwavering courage played a key role in India’s decisive victory in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War,” Kharge wrote.

Our salutations to the memory of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

Fondly known as Sam Bahadur, his strategic brilliance and unwavering courage played a key role in India's decisive victory in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

His illustrious career, marked by leadership in five… pic.twitter.com/uwAWOfYu2F

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) April 3, 2025

He further remarked that Manekshaw’s illustrious career, marked by leadership in five wars, stood as a testament to his selfless dedication. “His unflinching, tireless service remains deeply valued,” he added.

 

Union minister Nitin Gadkari also paid tribute to the legendary commander.

 

“Remembering the man behind India’s victory against the war with Pakistan in 1971, Padma Vibhushan Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw ji on his birth anniversary,” Gadkari wrote.

 

Born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, Manekshaw passed away at the Military Hospital in Wellington, Tamil Nadu, on June 27, 2008, at the age of 94.

 

He began his military career with the British Indian Army in 1932, serving with distinction during the Second World War. Over a career spanning four decades and five major conflicts, he played a crucial role in shaping India’s military history.

 

Among his early achievements was his participation in the Indo-Pak War of 1947 and the Hyderabad Liberation of 1948. He was also the first Indian officer to command the Gorkhas post-Independence and was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry on the battlefield during the Second World War.

 

Manekshaw, known for his sharp wit and indomitable spirit, became India’s first officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. His leadership during the 1971 war with Pakistan led to India’s historic victory, culminating in the creation of Bangladesh.

 

Even decades after his passing, Sam Manekshaw’s legacy remains an enduring source of inspiration for generations of military personnel and citizens alike.