Sam Bahadur’s 111th Birth Anniversary: A Tribute to the Hero of the 1971 Indo-Pak War

April 3, 2025, marks the 111th birth anniversary of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, one of India’s greatest military leaders, fondly known as ‘Sam Bahadur.’ A decorated war hero, he was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal and the architect of India’s decisive victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

 

 

Manekshaw, the most celebrated general had a career in the military spanning four decades. Sam Bahadur fought five wars, beginning from the World War II in 1942. As the Army Chief, Manekshaw led the Indian Army to its momentous victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, which resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh in 13 days.

 

 

 

He was honoured with 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, who was a doctor by profession, and Heerabai. He completed his schooling in Punjab and Sherwood College, Nainital. Manekshaw enrolled in the Indian Military Academy to rebel against his father as he wouldn't send him to London to study. He was selected as part of the first batch of cadets called "The Pioneers".

 

 

He settled down at Wellington upon his retirement and died on June 27, 2008 at the age of 94.