The Indo-Pak War of 1971 was more than a geopolitical conflict; it was a turning point in South Asian history. Marked by extraordinary acts of valor, strategic brilliance, and human endurance, the war culminated in the creation of Bangladesh and is remembered as a decisive victory for India.
While the war itself was fought across multiple fronts, it was the individual bravery of Indian soldiers — men who stood tall against all odds — that etched the 1971 war into the collective memory of the nation. From the blazing sands of Longewala to the rivers of East Pakistan, countless acts of heroism defined this war.
In this article, we bring you real heroic stories of Indian soldiers in the 1971 war — stories that continue to inspire generations.
1. Major Hoshiar Singh – The Lion of Shakargarh
Param Vir Chakra Awardee
Major Hoshiar Singh, commanding officer of 3 Grenadiers, was assigned the task of capturing the Jarpal post in the Shakargarh sector — a heavily fortified Pakistani position. Despite being outnumbered and under continuous shelling, Major Singh led a bayonet charge and cleared the enemy bunkers one by one.
Even after sustaining serious injuries, he refused evacuation and continued motivating his troops from the front. His relentless courage played a pivotal role in India’s success in the western sector.
2. Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal – The Young Tank Warrior
Posthumous Param Vir Chakra Awardee
At just 21 years old, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal of 17 Poona Horse became a legend during the Battle of Basantar in the Shakargarh sector. When Pakistani forces launched a counter-attack with Patton tanks, Arun fearlessly engaged the enemy.
In a single day, he destroyed multiple enemy tanks and refused to abandon his burning tank, despite orders to retreat. His last words were, “No sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working and I will get these bastards.”
His unmatched courage made him one of the youngest recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor.
3. Battle of Longewala – The Stand of 120 Against 2000
Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri and the Punjab Regiment
One of the most iconic battles of the war, Longewala witnessed just 120 Indian soldiers from the 23rd Punjab Regiment, led by Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, defend their post against 2000 Pakistani soldiers and over 40 tanks.
With no immediate air support during the night, the men held their ground using anti-tank mines and tactical positioning. By morning, the Indian Air Force came into action, decimating the enemy columns.
This David-versus-Goliath victory became a symbol of Indian military grit and inspired the Bollywood movie “Border”.
4. Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon – Air Combat Hero
Posthumous Param Vir Chakra Awardee
The only Indian Air Force officer to receive the Param Vir Chakra, Flying Officer Sekhon was stationed in Srinagar when Pakistani Sabre jets launched an attack on the airfield.
Taking off under heavy enemy fire, he engaged in aerial dogfights with six enemy aircraft, shooting down two before being overwhelmed. His bravery in the skies protected key military assets and disrupted the Pakistani air assault.
His courage has become part of Indian Air Force folklore.
5. Lance Naik Albert Ekka – The Battle for Gangasagar
Posthumous Param Vir Chakra Awardee
In the eastern theatre, Lance Naik Albert Ekka of the 14 Guards Regiment played a crucial role in the capture of Gangasagar, a strategic location in East Pakistan.
Fighting through enemy bunkers under intense fire, he cleared machine-gun nests and was grievously wounded. Despite his injuries, he advanced and destroyed another bunker before collapsing. His actions allowed his unit to capture the objective with minimal losses.
6. Captain Vikram Batra’s Father’s Friend – Lt Col Mohanlal Bhaskar
While not directly in combat during the 1971 war, Lt Col Mohanlal Bhaskar, a RAW agent, went behind enemy lines in Pakistan and was captured during a secret mission just before the war. His story, documented in his book “An Indian Spy in Pakistan”, reveals the dangerous espionage work that supported Indian military success.
His sacrifices, torture, and eventual return during a prisoner swap shed light on the silent heroes of the 1971 war.
7. The Mukti Bahini-Indian Army Joint Operations
One of the unique features of the 1971 war was the alliance between the Indian Army and the Mukti Bahini — the Bangladeshi liberation forces. Indian officers and soldiers trained and led guerrilla units deep into East Pakistan, attacking bridges, supply lines, and military outposts.
Indian officers like Major General Sagat Singh, who led IV Corps, orchestrated one of the most daring river crossings across the Meghna River, bypassing heavily defended areas and leading to the quick surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka.
8. Surrender at Dhaka – 93,000 POWs, A Record in Modern History
On December 16, 1971, Pakistani Lieutenant General A. A. K. Niazi signed the Instrument of Surrender in Dhaka, in front of Indian Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Aurora, marking the end of the war.
The surrender of over 93,000 Pakistani troops — the largest since World War II — was a testament to the strategic brilliance and battlefield courage of Indian soldiers.
Why These Stories Matter Today
The heroism of Indian soldiers in the 1971 war is not just history — it’s heritage. These real-life warriors demonstrated that patriotism is more than a word. It’s the willingness to lay down one’s life for the nation, often with no promise of recognition or reward.
Remembering these bravehearts serves multiple purposes:
- Inspires youth to serve the nation
- Honors sacrifices of those who never came home
- Educates future generations about the cost of freedom
- Strengthens national unity in a divided world
Honoring the Legacy
Every year, Vijay Diwas is celebrated on 16th December to commemorate India’s victory in the 1971 war. Statues, war memorials, documentaries, and books continue to preserve the legacy of our heroes.
The National War Memorial in New Delhi and war museums in Jaisalmer, Kolkata, and Dras serve as eternal flames to their valor.
Conclusion
The 1971 Indo-Pak war was more than a military triumph — it was a showcase of Indian resilience, honor, and valor. The heroic stories of Indian soldiers are eternal reminders of what it means to serve the nation selflessly.
From Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal’s burning tank to Major Chandpuri’s sand-barricaded outpost, from air warriors like Sekhon to ground heroes like Albert Ekka, their courage lives on in every Indian heart.
May we never forget them.
May we always be worthy of their sacrifice.