Major Somnath Sharma. Born on January 31, 1923, Major Sharma’s life is a canvas painted with courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the service of the nation.Â
Param Veer Chakra Major Somnath Sharma
Major Somnath Sharma. Born on January 31, 1923, Major Sharma’s life is a canvas painted with courage, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to the service of the nation. At the age of 24, he stepped into the pages of history, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shine brightly. Here’s all you need to know about Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of India’s prestigious Param Vir Chakra, a man whose bravery echoes through the corridors of time.
Warrior’s roots
Born into a Dogra Brahmin family on 31 January 1923 in Dadh, Kangra (now in Himachal Pradesh), Somnath Sharma hailed from a military background. His father, Amar Nath Sharma, was a military officer, and many of his siblings also served in the armed forces. Influenced by the teachings of Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita, imparted by his grandfather during his childhood, Somnath completed his schooling at Sherwood College, Nainital, and later joined the Prince of Wales Royal Military College in Dehradun before studying at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
Military service
Commissioned into the 8th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment, in 1942, Somnath Sharma served in Burma during World War II’s Arakan Campaign. He was mentioned in despatches for his service. His ultimate sacrifice occurred during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-1948.
Battle of Badgam
On 3 November 1947, Major Somnath Sharma led his company in the defence of Srinagar airport, facing an attack by an estimated 500 enemy forces. Despite heavy casualties and being personally injured, Major Sharma displayed exceptional bravery. He urged his company to fight tenaciously, exposing himself to enemy fire to encourage his men. Realising the deteriorating situation, he skillfully directed the fire of his sections and even filled magazines for light machine gunners despite his injured hand. A mortar shell eventually claimed his life, but his company held its position for six crucial hours, allowing reinforcements to arrive and stem the enemy advance.
Param Vir Chakra
On 21 June 1950, Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Veer Chakra, marking the first time this honour was bestowed. Major Somnath Sharma’s leadership, gallantry, and tenacious defence set an unparalleled example in the history of the Indian Army. His last message before his demise reflects his unwavering spirit: “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.”
