FIELD MARSHAL Sam Manekshaw is in the news these days, for no fault of his. It is sad that some vested interests are attacking him while he lies ill at the Military Hospital, Wellington. I am reminded of one of his memorable visits to Chandigarh soon after the 1971 war in early 1972. I was a student of DAV College, Chandigarh, and we were to hold our annual prize distribution function. It was to be followed by a similar function by our sister college, MCM DAV College for Girls, the same day.
In high demand
At that time, Sam Manekshaw was a hero as he had led the nation to victory in the 1971 war, along with liberating Bangladesh. He was in high demand as chief guest by various institutions. Thanks to our late Principal Triloki Nath's efforts, we also managed to get his consent to preside over the functions at both the colleges.
As young students, full of national fervour, we were excited about seeing the Chief of the Army Staff.
The `D' Day came. General Sam Manekshaw was a big hit in DAV College, Chandigarh. The function was a great success. But the crux of my story lies in the next function at MCM DAV College. I was in the audience. Sam Manekshaw, tall, smart, handsome, with a radiant face arrived in full regalia. The girls of MCM DAV College were awe struck. Initial ceremonies over, the prize distribution began.
The first girl went up to the dais to receive her prize. Sam Manekshaw affectionately looked at her. He was ready with his fine sense of humour. He put his hands on the girl's shoulders, and said "ever since I was a small boy, it was always my dream that a day should come when I will give prizes to lovely girls. Today the day has come." And saying this, he fondly kissed the shy girl on her cheek. Lo and behold! The girl screamed and ran out of the hall.
We were all a bit surprised at her reaction. Of course, the prize distribution went on as planned and the function happily concluded.
The next day, the morning newspaper carried the front-page news with the headline "Manekshaw's dream fulfilled," along with his photograph kissing the girl. It created quite a flutter. Sam Manekshaw, one of the finest leaders of the Indian Army, soon set the matters at ease. It was in a lighter vein and part of his enchanting sense of humour.
He became an icon of military leadership and uprightness. An officer and gentleman, the Field Marshal set the highest standards of soldierly conduct and army ethos. I had the privilege to interact with him while posted as Directing Staff at DSSC, Wellington, as the Field Marshal was staying next door at Coonoor (Tamil Nadu). He was the cynosure of all the students and staff. Today, the great Gurkha soldier lies ill. May he recover soon. He is our pride.
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