June 14: On the occasion of the Janm Jayanti of Brigadier Rajinder Singh, heartfelt tributes poured in from across the nation, honouring the legendary warrior known as the “Saviour of Jammu and Kashmir.” Remembered for his unparalleled bravery, patriotism, and supreme sacrifice, Brigadier Rajinder Singh remains a towering figure in Indian military history whose heroic stand in 1947 played a pivotal role in safeguarding Kashmir’s accession to India.
Born on 14th June 1899, Brigadier Singh served as the Chief of Staff to Maharaja Hari Singh, the then ruler of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. When Pakistani tribal raiders backed by the Pakistan Army invaded Kashmir in October 1947, it was Brigadier Singh who stood between them and the Valley, holding the enemy back with just a handful of men for over three days.
Armed with limited resources but boundless courage, Brigadier Singh’s resistance near Uri and Baramulla stalled the enemy advance long enough for the Maharaja to sign the Instrument of Accession and for Indian troops to be airlifted into Srinagar. In what is often referred to as the first major military action post-Independence, Brigadier Singh made the supreme sacrifice on 27 October 1947, earning him the honour of being Independent India’s first gallantry award recipient, posthumously conferred the Maha Vir Chakra.
On this solemn occasion, leaders, army veterans, and citizens alike remembered his valour and legacy. Social media was filled with tributes calling him the “Sher-e-Jammu” (Lion of Jammu) and celebrating his unflinching loyalty to the motherland. His heroic tale continues to inspire generations of Indian soldiers and patriots.
Union leaders and defence personnel laid wreaths at his memorial, while cultural events, seminars, and student-led tributes were held across Jammu and Kashmir to commemorate the occasion. Several speakers emphasized the importance of preserving and teaching the story of Brigadier Singh to future generations, especially in the context of national unity and sovereignty.
As India faces new and evolving security challenges, the timeless courage of Brigadier Rajinder Singh serves as a beacon of inspiration—reminding the country that true bravery lies in standing tall even when the odds are overwhelming.