How did India's Field Marshal salute? Know where Sam Manekshaw studied?

Sam Manekshaw was also known for his humor and sharp answers in the army. He was also awarded high civilian honors like Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan.

The name of India's first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw is recorded in golden letters in Indian military history. He was not only a brave soldier, but his style and personality made him a 'living legend' of the Indian Army. After the recent announcement of a film based on his life, once again people want to know who this great soldier was. Where did he study and why was his way of saluting so special?

Who was Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw?

Sam Manekshaw was the first officer of the Indian Army to be given the title of Field Marshal. This rank is the highest in the Indian Army and till now only two people in the country have received this honor, Sam Manekshaw and KM Cariappa.

Sam Manekshaw was born on 3 April 1914 in Amritsar. He belonged to the Parsi community. His father was a doctor and gave great importance to education from the very beginning. Sam's early education was at the prestigious Sherwood College in Nainital. After this, he wanted to study medicine from England, but fate took him towards military service.

Where did the army journey start?

Sam Manekshaw was one of the cadets of the first batch of Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. He got commissioned in the British Indian Army in the year 1934 and his first posting was in Burma (now Myanmar). During the Second World War, he fought bravely and despite being seriously injured, returned and continued to serve in the army.

Played an important role in the 1971 war

In the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, his strategy and leadership gave India a historic victory and Bangladesh was created. His wisdom and courage made him a national hero. After this victory, he was awarded the title of Field Marshal in 1973.

Why was his way of saluting special?

Actually, army officers have a stick. Which they salute by pressing under the shoulder. But the Field Marshal has Ashoka Pillar. According to reports, that is why he salutes with Ashoka Pillar instead of hand.