SHFJ Manekshaw

Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw (1914–2008), popularly known as Sam Manekshaw, was one of India’s most celebrated military leaders and the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. Renowned for his strategic brilliance, courage, and charismatic leadership, he played a decisive role in shaping India’s post-independence military history, most notably leading the Indian Army to victory in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh.

Early Life and Education

Sam Manekshaw was born on 3 April 1914 in Amritsar, Punjab, into a Parsi family. His father, Hormusji Manekshaw, was a doctor who had emigrated from Valsad, Gujarat. Sam completed his early education at Nainital’s Sherwood College, where he excelled academically and displayed a keen sense of discipline and humour—traits that would later define his military persona.
Initially aspiring to study medicine, Manekshaw instead joined the first batch of the Indian Military Academy (IMA) at Dehradun in 1932. He graduated in 1934, earning a commission into the British Indian Army as a Second Lieutenant in the 12th Frontier Force Regiment.

Military Career under British Rule

Manekshaw’s early military career was marked by gallantry and professionalism. During the Second World War, he served in Burma (now Myanmar) as part of the Fourteenth Army fighting Japanese forces. In 1942, he was severely wounded by machine-gun fire in the Battle of Sittang Bridge, taking nine bullets to his body. Believed to be fatally injured, he was saved by his commanding officer, Major General D. T. Cowan, who recommended him for the Military Cross for exemplary bravery under fire.
His wartime service shaped his tactical acumen and leadership under adversity. By the end of the war, he had established a reputation as a bold and capable officer, respected by both British and Indian soldiers.

Service after Indian Independence

Following India’s independence in 1947, Manekshaw opted to serve in the newly formed Indian Army. He played a critical role during the Partition of India, helping to manage the reorganisation and redistribution of troops between India and Pakistan. He later contributed to maintaining discipline and morale during a period of intense communal and political upheaval.
In the late 1940s and 1950s, Manekshaw held several key appointments, including postings in military operations, planning, and administration. As a brigade and division commander, he was instrumental in professionalising the Indian Army and introducing modern leadership standards.
During the Indo-China War of 1962, he was serving as the Commandant of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) at Wellington. His outspoken criticism of the government’s strategic mismanagement nearly cost him his career, but his honesty earned him immense respect within the armed forces. After the war, he was appointed Corps Commander, and later, Army Commander of the Eastern Command, where he revitalised the army’s morale and preparedness.

Chief of the Army Staff and the 1971 War

General Sam Manekshaw became the 8th Chief of the Army Staff on 8 June 1969. His tenure came at a time of growing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly over the political and humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
In 1971, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi discussed the possibility of military intervention, Manekshaw famously advised against immediate action, explaining that the army was unprepared for war during the monsoon season. His candid counsel demonstrated his integrity and strategic foresight. He requested time to mobilise and train forces, ensure logistical readiness, and secure international support.
When hostilities commenced in December 1971, Manekshaw’s leadership ensured a swift and decisive victory. The Indian Armed Forces achieved their objectives within 13 days, leading to the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops, the largest military surrender since World War II. The conflict culminated in the creation of Bangladesh, transforming the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.
His strategic planning, inter-service coordination, and humane treatment of prisoners of war won global acclaim. For his exemplary leadership, he was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal in January 1973, becoming the first Indian officer to receive the honour.

Leadership Style and Personality

Sam Manekshaw was celebrated not only for his tactical genius but also for his wit, charm, and moral courage. He was known to be frank, humorous, and unafraid of authority. His speeches and interactions with soldiers reflected a deep understanding of human nature and leadership.
He believed that a good leader must have:

• Professional competence, achieved through rigorous training and discipline.
• Moral courage, the ability to speak the truth even in the face of risk.
• Integrity and empathy, ensuring respect and care for subordinates.

His rapport with soldiers was legendary. He was often seen interacting informally with troops, addressing them as “my men,” and ensuring their welfare was prioritised. His leadership philosophy emphasised confidence, clarity, and decisiveness.

Awards and Honours

Field Marshal Manekshaw received numerous honours for his distinguished service:

• Military Cross (1942) for gallantry during World War II.
• Padma Bhushan (1968) for distinguished service of high order.
• Padma Vibhushan (1972), India’s second-highest civilian award, for his leadership in the 1971 War.
• Field Marshal Rank (1973), the highest military distinction in India.

He was also honoured by various military institutions and international organisations for his contributions to military strategy and leadership.

Retirement and Later Life

After a military career spanning over four decades, Field Marshal Manekshaw retired from active service in January 1973. Post-retirement, he settled in Coonoor, near Wellington in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills. Though he remained away from public office, his counsel was often sought on defence matters.
Despite his immense contributions, he maintained a modest lifestyle and rarely commented on political or military controversies. He continued to command great respect among servicemen and civilians alike.
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw passed away on 27 June 2008, at the age of 94. His funeral was conducted with full military honours, though his death initially received limited official recognition—something that later drew public criticism and reflection on India’s treatment of its heroes.

Legacy and Impact

Sam Manekshaw’s legacy endures as a symbol of courage, professionalism, and patriotism. His name is synonymous with leadership under pressure and the principle of placing duty and honour above all else.
He is remembered as the architect of India’s 1971 victory and a reformer who strengthened the professionalism and autonomy of the Indian Army. Military academies continue to study his command style and decisions as models of effective leadership.
The Indian Army commemorates him annually, and numerous memorials, scholarships, and institutions bear his name, including:

• Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw Centre, Delhi.
• Manekshaw Parade Ground, Bengaluru.
• Statue and memorials in Wellington and Coonoor.