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Key Points

India honored Param Vir Chakra recipient Lt Col Ardeshir Tarapore on his birth anniversary for his legendary leadership in the 1965 war. He destroyed 60 enemy tanks while refusing to retreat despite severe injuries, ultimately sacrificing his life. PM Modi recently named an Andaman island after him as part of a tribute to 21 war heroes. His legacy continues to inspire generations with tales of unmatched bravery and patriotism.

Key Points: Param Vir Chakra Hero Lt Col Tarapore Honored on Birth Anniversary

  • Lt Col Tarapore led Poona Horse to destroy 60 Pakistani Patton tanks
  • Refused retreat despite injuries before martyrdom in 1965 war
  • PM Modi named Andaman island after him in 2023
  • Cremated on battlefield per his last wish
2 min read

Param Vir Chakra Lt Col Tarapore's heroic legacy honoured on Birth anniversary

India pays tribute to Lt Col Ardeshir Tarapore, the 1965 war hero who destroyed 60 Pakistani tanks, on his birth anniversary.

"His saga of valor is a golden chapter in the history of the Indian Army – Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla"

New Delhi, August 18

On the birth anniversary of Param Vir Chakra recipient Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore, fondly known as 'Adi', tributes poured in for his unparalleled bravery during the 1965 Indo-Pak War.

Born on August 18, 1923, in Mumbai, Tarapore's fearless leadership in the Battle of Phillora in Sialkot, Pakistan, led to the destruction of 60 Pakistani Patton tanks, while India lost only nine tanks, according to release.

The release further mentioned, that under his command, the Poona Horse Regiment decisively defeated Pakistan's formidable tank forces between September 7-11, 1965. Despite being wounded, Tarapore refused to withdraw, continuing to lead until his tank was hit and engulfed in flames on September 16, 1965. He was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his extraordinary courage. Fulfilling his last wish, he was cremated on the battlefield at Jasoran on September 17, 1965.

General VK Singh, in a post on X, paid tribute, stating, "On his birth anniversary, I salute #ParamVeer Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore, under whose fearless leadership, 60 Pakistani tanks were destroyed while the Indian side suffered 9 tank casualties during the 1965 war."

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also honoured Tarapore, writing on X, "Heartfelt tributes on the birth anniversary of Param Vir Chakra recipient Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore Ji. In the 1965 India-Pakistan war, he inflicted heavy losses on the enemy with his unparalleled bravery, leadership, and unwavering courage, and made the supreme sacrifice on the battlefield. His saga of valor is a golden chapter in the history of the Indian Army, which will continue to inspire future generations with patriotism and dedication to duty."

In recognition of his legacy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on January 23, 2023, named 21 uncharted islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands after Param Vir Chakra awardees, including one after Tarapore, according to the release.

On July 18, 2023, PM Modi said, "We have named 21 islands after the brave sons who showed valour for the country and bestowed with Param Vir Chakra. Today, these islands of Andaman-Nicobar are giving new inspiration to the youth of the whole country for the development of the country."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Such inspiring bravery! But why don't we have more movies/documentaries about these war heroes? Bollywood should focus on real heroes instead of remakes.
A
Aditya G
My grandfather served in the same war. These stories give me goosebumps every time. We must preserve this history for future generations. The island naming is a brilliant initiative!
S
Sarah B
As someone new to India, I'm amazed by these stories of courage. The memorial islands are a beautiful way to honor these heroes. More countries should do this!
K
Karthik V
Respect! But we must also look after our veterans better. Many war heroes live in poor conditions today. Jai Jawan should mean more than just slogans.
N
Nisha Z
The ratio of 60 Pakistani tanks to our 9 is unbelievable! 🚀 This shows the power of good leadership and training. We need this spirit in every field today.
M
Michael C
Incredible story of valor. The world should know more about India's military heroes. The Poona Horse Regiment's legacy is truly remarkable.

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