Captain Vikram Batra: The heroic 'Shershah' of 1999 Kargil War

Kargil War Anniversary: Amidst political tensions and religious debates, the nation forgets the brave Kargil war hero, Captain Vikram Batra. 24 years ago, on July 7, Captain Vikram Batra was martyred while reclaiming the peak of Kargil, Point 4875, from Pakistani occupation. At just 24-years-old, his valiant story serves as an inspiration to conquer challenges.

During the 1999 Kargil War, as Pakistan Army infiltrated Kargil and captured the hills, Vikram Batra received the call for service while celebrating Holi in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh. With unwavering determination, he vowed to hoist the Indian tricolor on the peak, a promise that later became the driving force behind the Kargil war.

Under the leadership of Vikram Batra, the Battle of Point 5140 was won, and the tricolor was raised, later renaming the peak to Tiger Point. Even amidst relentless shelling from the Pakistani Army, Captain Vikram Batra and his fellow soldiers displayed extraordinary valor, destroying enemy bunkers and posts. Tragically, he made the supreme sacrifice on July 7, 1999, killing five Pakistani soldiers.

Also Read: Kargil War Anniversary Special: Know how conflict originated and why Tiger Hill proved to be a turning point

For his gallantry and sacrifice, Captain Vikram Batra was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest honor, on August 15, 1999. His comrade, Captain Anuj Nayyar, was posthumously honored with the Mahavir Chakra.

The peak of Kargil where Captain Vikram Batra was martyred is now known as Batra Top, a reminder of his bravery and sacrifice. Let us remember the stories of these heroes and their families, recognizing the countless sacrifices made for our safety and the nation's protection.

Story of Captain Vikram Batra's heroism in the Kargil War

With the recent release of the Hindi film "Shershaah," the spotlight returns to Captain Vikram Batra, a war hero martyred during the 1999 Kargil war. Starring Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, the film celebrates India's 75th Independence Day on Amazon Prime. Captain Vikram Batra's bravery and contribution to India's victory in the Kargil conflict earned him the posthumous Param Vir Chakra, the country's highest gallantry honor.

Here are 15 facts about Capt. Vikram Batra:

• Born on September 9, 1974, in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India.
• Earned the nickname "Sher Shah" (Lion King) for his bravery and fearless attitude on the battlefield.
• Played a crucial role in the capture of Point 5140, one of the toughest and strategically important peaks in the Kargil region.
• Famous war cry during the mission was "Yeh Dil Maange More!" ("This heart wants more!"), becoming a popular slogan during the war.
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• Posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, in 1999, the first army personnel from the Kargil War to receive this prestigious award.
• His bravery and sacrifice made him a national hero, inspiring generations of Indians.
• An avid sports enthusiast and excelled in basketball and hockey.
• Completed schooling at D.A.V. Public School in Palampur and pursued a Bachelor of Commerce degree at D.A.V. College in Chandigarh.
• Joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, in 1996.
• Known for his charismatic personality and strong sense of duty towards his country.
• Twin brother, Vishal Batra, also serves in the Indian Army and was with him during the Kargil War.
• Portrayed in the Bollywood film "Shershaah," released in 2021, with actor Sidharth Malhotra playing his character.
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• Remembered for his famous quote, "Either I will come back after hoisting the Tricolor (Indian flag), or I will come back wrapped in it, but I will be back for sure."
• Various infrastructure projects and institutions named after Captain Vikram Batra by the Indian Army to honor his memory and sacrifice.
• His legacy continues to inspire and motivate young Indians to serve their country with valor and dedication.
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- With inputs from agencies

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