The Indian Armed Forces have long been revered as the epitome of honor, discipline, and unwavering service to the nation. While the majority of our defense personnel hail from traditional military backgrounds, there exists a distinguished group of individuals from diverse walks of life who have also proudly worn the uniform. These are the Famous Personalities Held Highly Designated Posts In The Indian Army from the realms of sports, cinema, and politics – who have answered the call to serve their motherland in the most esteemed manner.
1. Sachin Tendulkar: Cricket’s Maestro Becomes an Air Force Icon
Sachin Tendulkar, the name that has etched its mark in the annals of cricket history, is no stranger to accolades and distinctions. However, one honor that sets him apart is his association with the Indian Air Force. In 2010, the legendary batsman was conferred the prestigious rank of Group Captain, becoming the first person without an aviation background to receive this distinction. This recognition not only solidified Tendulkar’s status as a national icon but also underscored the Indian Armed Forces’ respect for his unparalleled contributions to the country’s sporting legacy.
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2. Mahendra Singh Dhoni: From Cricket’s Finisher to Army’s Paratrooper
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the talismanic former captain of the Indian cricket team, is a multifaceted personality who has seamlessly transitioned from the cricket pitch to the world of military service. In 2011, Dhoni was bestowed with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the nation. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and sharp tactical acumen on the field, Dhoni has also proven his mettle as a qualified paratrooper, completing five successful jumps and engaging in various military exercises.
3. Abhinav Bindra: India’s Lone Individual Olympic Gold Medalist Becomes a Lieutenant Colonel
Abhinav Bindra’s historic triumph at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he became India’s first and only individual Olympic gold medalist, cemented his place in the country’s sporting pantheon. However, Bindra’s contributions extend beyond the realm of shooting, as he has also been honored with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army. This recognition not only acknowledges his exceptional achievements but also underscores the Indian Armed Forces’ appreciation for individuals who have brought glory to the nation through their unwavering dedication and excellence.
4. Kapil Dev: From Cricket’s Legendary Captain to Territorial Army’s Honorary Lieutenant Colonel
Kapil Dev, the iconic cricketer who led the Indian team to their historic 1983 World Cup victory, is another prominent personality who has been bestowed with a distinguished rank in the Indian Armed Forces. In 2008, Kapil Dev was commissioned as an honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army, a fitting tribute to his relentless efforts in elevating the stature of Indian cricket on the global stage. The Haryana Hurricane’s association with the military underscores the deep-rooted connection between sports and national service in the country.
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5. Sachin Pilot: From Union Minister to Territorial Army’s Lieutenant
Sachin Pilot, the former Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, has followed in the footsteps of his military-serving ancestors by becoming a commissioned officer in the Indian Territorial Army. In 2013, Pilot cleared the rigorous selection process, including the Preliminary Interview Board (PIB) and the Services Selection Board (SSB), to earn the rank of Lieutenant in the 124th TA Battalion of the Sikh Regiment. This achievement not only reflects Pilot’s personal commitment to national service but also highlights the Indian Armed Forces’ openness to welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds into their ranks.
6. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore: From Olympic Silver Medalist to Serving Colonel
Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, the renowned Olympic silver medalist in double trap shooting, is another celebrated personality who has seamlessly transitioned from the sporting arena to the Indian Army. Rathore was commissioned into the 9th Grenadiers (Mewar) Regiment in 1990 and subsequently rose through the ranks, becoming a Lieutenant in 1992, a Major in 2000, and eventually a Colonel in 2009. His distinguished military career, which included active service during the Kargil War, underscores the Indian Armed Forces’ recognition of exceptional individuals who have excelled in their respective fields.
7. Milkha Singh: From “The Flying Sikh” to Junior Commissioned Officer
The legendary sprinter Milkha Singh, fondly known as “The Flying Sikh,” is a shining example of how sports and military service can go hand in hand. Milkha Singh joined the Indian Armed Forces in 1951 and was later promoted from the rank of Sepoy to that of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), a testament to his remarkable achievements in the field of athletics. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes who dream of not only representing their country on the global stage but also serving it with unwavering dedication.
8. Mohanlal Vishwanath Nair: From Acclaimed Actor to Territorial Army’s Lieutenant Colonel
The Indian film industry has also produced its share of personalities who have answered the call to serve the nation in uniform. One such individual is the acclaimed Malayalam actor, Mohanlal Vishwanath Nair. In 2018, Mohanlal was formally inducted into the Territorial Army of India with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel, becoming the first actor to receive this distinction. This recognition not only highlights Mohanlal’s commitment to the nation but also underscores the Indian Armed Forces’ appreciation for individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.
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9. Deepak Rao: From Physician to Territorial Army’s Honorary Major
Deepak Rao, a renowned sports physician, author, and motivational speaker, has also been honored by the Indian Territorial Army. Rao was commissioned into the Para TA Regiment with the honorary rank of Major, in recognition of his unwavering dedication to training and supporting the country’s elite armed forces for over 25 years. As a brand ambassador of the Territorial Army, Rao’s story exemplifies the diverse range of individuals who have been recognized for their selfless service and invaluable contributions to the nation.
10. Anurag Singh Thakur: From Politician to Territorial Army’s Captain
Anurag Singh Thakur, the current Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs, as well as the Minister of Information and Broadcasting, has also proudly donned the uniform of the Indian Territorial Army. In 2016, Thakur was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the 124th Sikh Regiment, becoming the first serving Member of Parliament to be appointed to this prestigious position. His subsequent promotion to the rank of Captain in 2021 further solidifies his commitment to the nation and the Indian Armed Forces.
These remarkable individuals, hailing from various walks of life, have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also answered the call to serve the nation in the most esteemed manner. Their association with the Indian Armed Forces underscores the deep-rooted connection between service, sacrifice, and national pride, inspiring generations of aspiring defense personnel to follow in their footsteps.
