Vikram Batra Biography: Today we are discussing the courageous Indian Army officer Captain Vikram Batra. The recent release of the 2021 movie Shershaah stars Sidharth Malhotra in the lead role; it follows his life and his heroic tale. In this article, we explore the life of Captain Vikram Batra in detail, his success, and how he left his mark.
Who is Vikram Batra?
Captain Vikram Batra is remembered for his unparalleled courage during the Kargil War of 1999, especially in commanding the Battle of Point 5140. He was an important person in recapturing crucial positions held by the Pakistani forces on the high-altitude slopes of Kargil. In Operation Vijay, Batra showed brilliant valor, taking his men into the attack even as he was encompassed by dangerous conditions-heavy artillery fire and tough terrain. His most legendary moment came when he led the assault to capture Point 5140, a strategic hilltop over enemy positions. Even after being grievously injured in battle, he kept going and leading the way.
Vikram Batra’s Family
Vikram Batra was the third child of Girdhari Lal Batra, a government school principal, and Kanta Batra, a school teacher. He was the elder of twin sons, born fourteen minutes before his brother, Vishal. The twins were nicknamed: ‘Luv‘ (Vikram) and ‘Kush‘ (Vishal), after the twin sons of the Hindu deity Rama, by their mother who was a professed devotee of Rama. He had two sisters: Seema and Nutan.
Vikram Batra Military Career
Captain Vikram Batra was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1997, joining the 13th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (13 JAK Rif). After completion of his regimental training, he was posted to Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, where he led a number of operationally successful anti-militant operations.
In 1999, he completed a Commando Course with the top grading. Batra was later moved to Dras during the Kargil War, where he made his mark for the great job done in the capture of Tololing. At such harsh conditions, his key service could help push the enemy forces back. His final phone call to his family was on 29 June 1999 and he was posthumously awarded with the highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra.
Captain Vikram Batra’s Heroic Death in the Kargil War
While advancing through heavy enemy fire, Batra showed extraordinary bravery and tenacity. In the battle, he was hit by bullets in the chest. He would not retreat but led forward despite his injuries. He encouraged his men to achieve victory in this position. It is said that in his last breath he did scream, “Ye Dil Maange More”, which became a very famous line. He died shortly thereafter due to his injuries when he had just succeeded in the operation.
Param Vir Chakra
The Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, was given to Vikram Batra on the 52nd anniversary of India’s independence – 15 August 1999. His father G.L. Batra received the Param Vir Chakra on behalf of his deceased son from late K. R. Narayanan the President of India.
Shershaah the Movie
Captain Batra’s story was depicted in the Bollywood movie “Shershaah” (2021), where his bravery and sacrifice were portrayed by actor Sidharth Malhotra. The film was a tribute to his life and contributions during the Kargil War.
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