A Tale of Valour Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam
etched: permanently fixed in someone’s memory beacon: a source of inspiration valour: courage
Mera desh, mera desh re
Mera desh hua re roshan,
le qurban kiya tujh hee pe ye tan man…
Major Somnath Sharma
(1923–1947)
Kumaon
Regiment Crest This is a tribute to the valiant Major Somnath Sharma, India’s first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, whose name is etched in the annals of history. His bravery and sacrifice stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations. At every intersection of patriotism—whether through the National War Memorial, soul stirring patriotic songs, books, and stories recounting acts of valour, or the celebrations of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav— his memory is honoured. Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive… reminding us of the ultimate price paid for our freedom. The serene Kashmir valley in the shadows of the majestic Himalayas witnessed a tale of extraordinary heroism and
infiltrators:
people who
secretly invade
annex: to take
possession of sacrifice to protect the integrity of Indian borders. The day began with the silence of a cold November dawn but ended with echoes of courage that served as an inspiration for generations to come. This is the story of Major Somnath Sharma and the brave men that he led on a mission to protect the Srinagar airport from falling into the hands of a guerrilla force trained and backed by Pakistan. This is a story of how 90 men managed to foil the plan of some 500 infiltrators who wanted to capture Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley and deliver a blow to newly-independent India. The events that led to the Battle of Badgam started in August 1947, when Pakistan launched Operation Gulmarg to annex the Kashmir Valley. This was in violation of an existing agreement with Hari Singh, the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, who had committed Pakistan not to attack the state. However, instead of honouring the commitment, the Pakistani Army trained and equipped around 1000 invaders who possessed deep knowledge of mountain passes and the local terrain to enter Kashmir and take control of strategic locations, including the Srinagar airport. The ultimate goal of their plan was to engineer a revolt in Kashmir, overthrow the government, and capture the territory. If they had succeeded, it would have allowed them to control strategic mountain passes, peaks, and rivers. On 22 October, Operation Gulmarg was launched and these infiltrators invaded Kashmir, which led to the Princely State becoming a part of India on 26 October 1947. In response to this invasion, the Government of India sent its troops to defend the people of Kashmir and India’s borders on 27 October 1947. A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar because the land route through Pathankot was not in a good condition. On 31 October, the D Company of the 4th Battalion of Kumaon Regiment, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was also flown into Srinagar. At that time, Major Somnath Sharma’s left hand was in plaster, but he insisted on being with his company while in combat. He knew that this mission would be very challenging and told his senior ofÏcers, “I know my men better than anyone else, and if they are going into action, they are not going in without me.” These words highlighted his commitment to his men and his country. Before their arrival in Srinagar, there had been unfounded rumours of tribal movement towards the village of Badgam, less than 5 kilometres away from the Srinagar airport. The village was on a higher altitude than the airfield, and access was through the village. Hence, it was important for Indian forces to retain control of the area in order to protect troops and facilitate supplies arriving via air. In reality, the enemy had started arriving in Badgam in small groups to avoid detection. On 03 November 1947, several companies, including Major Somnath Sharma’s D Company, were sent to patrol and assess emerging threats in and around the village. Throughout the day, the valley was eerily silent. Around afternoon, the companies were ordered to return one by one. D company with 90 soldiers was the last, and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m. When the enemy (tribal guerrilla invaders), under the command of the Pakistani army, saw that only a small group combat: a battle unfounded: not based on reason or facts eerily: in a strange, frightening and mysterious way of Indian soldiers were left behind in Badgam, they attacked them. Their initial attack was met with stiff resistance by Major Somnath and his men. However, Major Somnath correctly visualised that the first attack was just a distraction. Shortly thereafter, a major attack came from another side. By then, Major Somnath Sharma and his 90 soldiers were facing about 500 invaders. The Pakistani invaders sought to capture the Srinagar airfield and its surrounding areas. It was clear to Major Somnath Sharma that defending Srinagar town, the airfield, and the wider valley was indeed difÏcult until reinforcements arrived. After assessing the situation, he requested air strikes. He bravely laid out ground panels to guide the aircraft towards their target. The aerial attacks were successful in hitting the tribal invaders, but they still outnumbered D Company by almost seven to one, the attack on the positions occupied by Major Somnath’s men continued. Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma’s voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour. Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.
outnumbered:
were greater in
number
resolute:
determined
tenacity:
determination
unparalleled:
unmatched
magazines:
(here) containers
that hold
cartridges to be
fed into a gun However, as the battle progressed, D Company began running out of ammunition. When Major Somnath Sharma informed Brigade headquarters about this, he was asked to pull back. Aware of the gravity of the situation, he responded with the words, “The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round”. Just a few minutes later, when he was crouched in a trench next to a machine gun operator, in order to help him load the gun, his position was hit by a mortar shell, killing him instantly. Despite losing their Major and faced with the overwhelming numerical superiority of the enemy, the heroic actions of late Major Somnath Sharma motivated his men to hold on to their position for over six more hours before being overrun by the enemy. Their brave resistance provided time for reinforcements to arrive, including flying in soldiers from the Punjab regiment to Srinagar. The heroic deeds of Major Somnath and his men thoroughly demotivated the enemy, causing more than 300 casualties, including injuring their leader. In many significant ways, D Company’s sacrifice and Major Somnath’s leadership saved Srinagar for India. The 4 KUMAON battalion was awarded the Battle Honour, Srinagar. Major Somnath laid down his life for the nation at the young age of 24. For this act of conspicuous bravery, Major Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC). His citation reflects his heroism, patriotism, and courage. He was the first recipient of the PVC, awarded posthumously for gallantry and supreme sacrifice. crouched: sat with knees bent ammunition: a supply of bullets, shells, and explosives conspicuous: noticeable posthumously: after death
“I shall not withdraw
an inch but will fight
to the last man and
the last round”
Major Somnath Sharma, PVC We have delved into how the events of 03 November 1947, played out. It is also worth knowing more about the early life of Major Somnath and the events that led him to make the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Born on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction. Young Somnath was also deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather. From his early education at Sherwood College, Nainital, to his rigorous training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Major Somnath Sharma’s life was a testament to discipline and dedication. Commissioned into the 8th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942, he served with distinction during World War II in the Arakan Campaign in Burma, earning mentions in despatches for his bravery. However, it was during the Indo–Pakistan War of 1947–1948, particulary in the battle of Badgam, that the legacy of Major Somnath Sharma was truly forged. The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism. He has been a source of inspiration for soldiers and citizens alike. Most importantly, his story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in defence of the motherland and highlights the profound sense of duty that inspired them. despatches: ofÏcial reports on military affairs forged: shaped or strengthened, often through hardship legacy: life experiences, values, beliefs, and traditions passed down from generation to generation testament: strong evidence or proof
Honour Wall with Names of Bravehearts at the National War Memorial
Medal of Honour In the quiet of the Kashmir Valley, where the echoes of D Company’s battle with infiltrators have long since faded, the story of Major Somnath Sharma remains a beacon of courage and sacrifice. His valour ensured that the tricolour would continue to fly over Srinagar, and his name is forever etched in the golden pages of India’s military history. The life and legacy of Major Somnath Sharma stands as a poignant reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who fought to protect it. His story, marked by selflessness and bravery, will continue to inspire and guide generations to come, ensuring that his sacrifice is never to be forgotten. His name is etched on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial. poignant: emotional and sad
Let us salute this braveheart.
Vande Mataram, vande mataraṁ
Sujalam suphalam malayaja shitalam,
Shasya shyamalam ṃataram!
Vande Mataram, vande mataram
vande mataram…
Jai Hind
Somebody’s Mother
The woman was old and ragged and grey
And bent with the chill of the Winter’s day.
The street was wet with a recent snow
And the woman’s feet were aged and slow.
She stood at the crossing and waited long,
Alone, uncared for, amid the throng
Of human beings who passed her by
Nor heeded the glance of her anxious eyes.
Down the street, with laughter and shout,
Glad in the freedom of “school let out,”
Came the boys like a flock of sheep,
Hailing the snow piled white and deep.
Past the woman so old and grey
Hastened the children on their way.
Nor offered a helping hand to her —
So meek, so timid, afraid to stir
Lest the carriage wheels or the horses’ feet
Should crowd her down in the slippery street.
At last came one of the merry troop,
The gayest laddie of all the group;
He paused beside her and whispered low,
“I’ll help you cross, if you wish to go.”
Her aged hand on his strong young arm
She placed, and so, without hurt or harm,
He guided the trembling feet along,
Proud that his own were firm and strong.
Then back again to his friends he went,
His young heart happy and well content.
“She’s somebody’s mother, boys, you know,
For all she’s aged and poor and slow”,
“And I hope some fellow will lend a hand
To help my mother, you understand”,
“If ever she’s poor and old and grey,
When her own dear boy is far away.”
And “somebody’s mother” bowed low her head
In her home that night, and the prayer she said
Was “God be kind to the noble boy,
Who is somebody’s son, and pride and joy!”
Mary Dow Brine
Verghese Kurien — I Too Had A Dream
addicted:
dependent on
something
fleeting:
momentary or
short-lived
abiding
pleasure:
a feeling of
happiness that
continues for a
long time
jottings: brief
notes
foremost:
leading
humility:
modesty/
quality of being
humble
pursue: follow
envisioned:
imagined
or expected
something to
happen in a
particular way
TO MY GRANDSON
Anand, 2005
My dear Siddharth,
When did I write to you last? I have trouble even remembering! In today’s
fast-paced world we have become so addicted to instant communication
that we prefer to use a telephone. But speaking on the telephone only
gives us an immediate but fleeting joy. Writing is different. Writing—
even if it is a letter—not only conveys our present concerns and views of
the events taking place around us but it becomes a possession that can be
treasured and re-read over the years, with great, abiding pleasure.
You may not wish to read it all right away but, perhaps, a couple of
decades or more from now, you will pick up these jottings of mine again
and they will give you a deeper understanding of what I have done, and
the reasons I pursued a life of service to our nation’s farmers. You will
then discover in them a valuable reminder of the days just before the
world entered the twenty-first century. And you may want to share my
memories with those of your generation, or even younger, to provide a
glimpse of the world your grandparents lived in and knew.
I started my working life soon after our country became independent.
The noblest task in those days was to contribute in whatever way we
could towards building an India of our dreams—a nation where our
people would not only hold their heads high in freedom but would be
free from hunger and poverty. A nation where our people could live with
equal respect and love for one another. A nation that would eventually
be counted among the foremost nations of the world. It was then that I
realised, in humility, that choosing to lead one kind of life means putting
aside the desire to pursue other options. This transformation took place
within me fifty years ago, when I agreed to work for a small cooperative
of dairy farmers who were trying to gain control over their lives.
To be quite honest, service to our nation’s farmers was not the career I
had envisioned for myself. But somehow, a series of events swept me
along and put me in a certain time with a choice that would transform
my life. I could have pursued a career in metallurgy and become the
ardently: in a
way that shows
strong feelings
poise: in a calm
and confident
manner
adhered: to
continue to
support
integrity:
honest and
strong moral
principles
correlation:
a connection
between two or
more things
chief executive of a large company. Or, opted for a commission in the
Indian Army and maybe retired as a general. Or, I could have left for
the US and gone on to become a highly successful NRI. Yet, I chose none
of these because somewhere, deep down, I knew I could make a more
meaningful contribution by working here in Anand, Gujarat.
Your grandmother too made an important choice. She knew, in those
days, life in Anand could not offer even the simple comforts that we take
for granted today. However, she ardently supported my choice to live
and work in Anand. That choice of your grandmother to stand by me has
given me an everlasting strength, always ensuring that I shouldered my
responsibilities with poise.
Whenever I have received any recognition for my contributions towards
the progress of our country, I always emphasised that it is a recognition
of the achievements of many people with whom I had a privilege to
be associated with. I would like to stress even more strongly that my
contributions have been possible only because I have consistently
adhered to certain values. Values that I have inherited from my parents
and other family elders; values that I saw in my mentor and supporter
here in Anand—Tribhuvandas Patel. I have often spoken of integrity as
the most important of these values, realising that integrity—and personal
integrity, at that—is being honest to yourself. If you are always honest to
yourself, it does not take much effort in always being honest with others.
I have also learnt what I am sure you, too, will find out some day. Life
is a privilege and to waste it would be wrong. In living this privilege
called ‘life’, you must accept responsibility for yourself, always use your
talents to the best of your ability and contribute somehow to the common
good. That common good will present itself to you in many forms every
day. If you look around you, you will find there is a lot waiting to be
done: your friend may need some help, your teacher could be looking
for a volunteer, or the community you live in will need you to make a
contribution. I hope that you, too, will discover, as I did, that failure is not
about not succeeding. Rather, it is about not putting in your best effort
and not contributing, however modestly, to the common good.
In life you, too, will discover as I did, that anything can go wrong at any time
and mostly does. Yet, there is little correlation between the circumstances
of people’s lives and how happy they are. Most of us compare ourselves
with someone we think is happier—a relative, an acquaintance, or often,
someone we barely know. But when we start looking closely we realise
that what we saw were only images of perfection. And that will help us
musings:
thoughts on
something
one has been
thinking about
carefully for a
long time
Do you remember when you accompanied me at the magnificent ceremony
in Delhi where our President awarded me the Padma Vibhushan in 1999?
With great pride, you slipped the medal around your neck, looked at it in
awe and asked me very innocently if you could keep it. Do you remember
the answer your grandmother and I gave you? We told you that of course,
this medal was yours as much as it was mine but that you should not be
satisfied in merely keeping my award—the challenge before you was to
earn your own reward for the work that you did in your lifetime.
And in the end, if we are brave enough to love, strong enough to rejoice in
another’s happiness and wise enough to know that there is enough to go
around for all, then we would have lived our lives to the fullest.
I would like to dedicate these musings to you, Siddharth, and to the
millions of other children of your generation in our country, in the hope
that upon reading them you will be inspired enough to go bravely out
into the world and work tirelessly in your chosen field for the larger good
of the country, for the larger good of humanity. Remember, rewards that
come to you then are the only true rewards for a life well-spent.
With my fondest love,
(V Kurien)