Armed Forces Pay Tribute to Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw on 17th Death Anniversary
India remembers its first Field Marshal and the hero of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War
New Delhi | June 27, 2025 —The Indian armed forces on Friday paid solemn tribute to Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, widely known as Sam Bahadur, on his 17th death anniversary. Celebrated as one of India’s most iconic military leaders, Manekshaw's strategic acumen and unwavering leadership during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War continue to resonate across generations of the armed forces and civilians alike.
A Legacy of Leadership, Courage, and Vision
Field Marshal Manekshaw, the first Indian Army officer to be elevated to the five-star rank of Field Marshal, is credited with crafting India's decisive military strategy that led to the creation of Bangladesh. His contributions have etched him permanently into the annals of Indian history.
The Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) took to social media platform X to honour the military legend.
“Remembering Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, MC #SamBahadur on his 17th death anniversary,” the post read. “He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. Sam Bahadur's visionary leadership during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and his unwavering commitment to military excellence continue to inspire generations.”
Indian Army and Citizens Remember a National Icon
The Indian Army, under which Manekshaw served as the 8th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), also paid rich tributes on social media.
“Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw, fondly known as Sam Bahadur, was the 8th #COAS and the 1st Field Marshal of the #IndianArmy. The architect of India's victory in the 1971 War, his legacy continues to inspire. #IndianArmy pays homage on his death anniversary,” the Army said in a post on X, also sharing a photo and one of his famous quotes.
Sam Bahadur's leadership was marked not only by military brilliance but also by wit, fearlessness, and an unwavering dedication to the uniform. Known for his sharp intellect and ability to motivate his troops, his speeches and interviews are still widely shared and quoted.
Honour in His Name
- A grand convention centre in Delhi Cantonment has been named after Field Marshal Manekshaw.
- His legacy is preserved in military academies and institutions across the country.
- His legendary quote — “If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or he is a Gorkha” — continues to be echoed in military circles.
A Man of Many Firsts
- Born: April 3, 1914, in Amritsar
- Died: June 27, 2008, in Wellington, Tamil Nadu
- Military Service: Indian Army (1932–1973)
- Rank: Field Marshal (appointed 1973)
- Major Battles: World War II, India-Pakistan Wars, 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War
Manekshaw served in World War II under the British Indian Army and was wounded in combat. After India’s independence, he rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected military leaders in the world.
Why Sam Bahadur’s Legacy Matters Today
As India navigates complex security challenges in the 21st century, Manekshaw’s clarity of thought, strategic foresight, and moral courage remain relevant. His career is taught in Indian military institutions as a benchmark of leadership under pressure.
“Leadership is about integrity, not popularity,” he once remarked, a philosophy that guided the Indian Army during one of its most critical military operations in 1971.
National Tributes Across Platforms
Along with HQ IDS and the Indian Army, several political leaders, veterans, and citizens took to social media to commemorate Manekshaw's life. Hashtags like #SamBahadur, #FieldMarshalManekshaw, and #1971WarHero trended online as people shared quotes, rare photos, and personal reflections.
Final Thoughts
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw’s life is a masterclass in leadership and service. On the 17th anniversary of his passing, India bows in respect to a man who redefined military excellence and nation-building.
As his famous quote goes:
“I wonder whether those of our political leaders who talk so much about war and bravery would ever be brave enough to lead from the front line.”
His words, like his legacy, continue to guide and inspire.