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First Post
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- First Post
‘Real Heroes', Saluting Our Seniors An Original Sony LIV Series Honoring India's Armed Forces Veterans and Freedom Fighters
Real Heroes is more than a tribute—it is a bridge between generations. Through unfiltered voices and lived experiences, the series reminds us that the courage of our seniors read more Sony LIV proudly announces the launch of Real Heroes, an eight-part original docuseries that brings to life the powerful personal stories of India's freedom fighters and armed forces veterans. Directed by Anirban Bhattacharyya, it is streaming exclusively on Sony LIV's YouTube channel. The series is a moving tribute to the generations of Indians who have devoted their lives to safeguarding the country's sovereignty and values. Real Heroes marks a significant step in Gen S Life's broader mission to honour, amplify and preserve the voices of India's senior citizens. By capturing the memories of these national icons, the series serves not just as documentation but as legacy-preserving stories that have remained unheard or under-celebrated for too long. From the snow-covered silence of Siachen to the historic resistance of the freedom movement, these narratives offer intimate insights into the human cost of service, courage and conviction. The series is an absolute eye-opener with the veterans revealing never-before-heard first-hand experiences of some of the biggest military operations. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Among the featured voices is Lt Gen Sanjay Kulkarni PVSM, AVSM, SC, SM, VSM (Retd), a veteran of Operation Meghdoot (1984), and a war-hero, reflecting on the life-threatening conditions he faced, shared, 'Siachen is not a place you conquer; it is a place that tests your will to survive. We went there not just to hold ground but to uphold India's honour in the harshest climate on earth. Here Great Courage and Fortitude is the Norm.' Col. DPK Pillay (Shaurya Chakra), from Kannur, Kerala, recalled his time in Manipur in 1994, 'In the chaos of battle in Manipur, I learned that true soldiering means saving lives, not taking them. Wounded in Operation Rakshak, I gave up my evacuation for two injured children. The villagers' gratitude stayed with me—and years later, they called me back, not with bitterness, but with honor. In their resilience, I saw that even in war, humanity speaks without words, and gratitude never fades.' Hailing from Punjab, Col. Jasbir Singh, who was grievously injured during the Indo-Pak war in Operation Cactus-Lily (1971), spoke with clarity and strength. 'When I stepped on a mine and lost my foot, I knew my life would change. But I did not lose my purpose. That war taught me to live with honour, no matter the cost'. Dr. G.G. Parikh, a 101-year-old freedom fighter from Mumbai, who was jailed for 10 months during the Quit India movement remembered the underground resistance during British rule. 'We fought without weapons, but with a relentless spirit. We were imprisoned, but never silenced. Freedom was earned by ordinary people doing extraordinary things. And today, I fear we have forgotten the quiet strength of civil disobedience, of selflessness. That's why I speak—to remember, and to remind.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Brig. Shamsher Singh (AVSM), who fought in the Battle of Haji Pir (1965), spoke of the mountainous terrain and his unit's bravery,'The Haji Pir pass wasn't just terrain—it was an identity, a cause. We were told to expect 100% casualty and we were prepared to die!' Gour Hari Das, from Odisha, who was blessed by Mahatma Gandhi, spent decades trying to prove his identity as a freedom fighter after Independence. 'I fought to free India before 1947, and I fought bureaucracy after. Both battles demanded patience and faith. I only ever wanted to be acknowledged as a freedom fighter.' Recalling the 1971 Battle of Basantar, Lt. Col. B.T. Pandit (PVSM, VRC), a decorated veteran from Pune Maharashtra, shared, 'I was sitting on the top of the tank and riding towards the enemy. I could hear the enemy bullets ricocheting off the tank. On the battlefield, you don't think of your life—you think of your nation.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD From Mumbai, Commodore Medioma Bhada, a naval pilot who took part in an operation to bomb Chittagong in 1971, vividly remembers taking off in his Sea Hawk aircraft from INS Vikrant and heading towards the target, 'I was full of adrenaline. We were under strict radio silence, flying low over enemy harbours, knowing we might not return. But in uniform, fear takes a back seat to duty. We were young men flying into enemy fire and our brief was clear - destroy the targets at any cost.' Reflecting on the significance of the series, Meenakshi Menon, Founder of Gen S Life, said, 'This initiative aligns with Gen S Life's core mission—to serve and celebrate India's senior citizens. These stories are a powerful reminder that history lives in people. By honouring their voices, we are not only remembering the past but investing in a more grateful future.' Anirban Bhattacharyya, bestselling author and the director-producer of Real Heroes, added, 'Real Heroes has been one of the most humbling experiences of my life. These are not just stories; they are legacies, lived and carried by men who gave a part of themselves for India. We owe it to our future generations to document this living history while we still can. This series is our way of saluting the spirit, courage, and integrity of India's true legends.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Lt. Gen (Retd) Sanjay Kulkarni cited the series to be, 'An endeavour to motivate the present generation with deeds of yesteryears which have geo strategic reverberations for our future generations, I compliment and laud this great initiative of Gen S Life for honouring our great soldiers for whom Naam Namak Nishan is a call worth sacrificing their lives for the Nation. Jai Hind.' Real Heroes is more than a tribute—it is a bridge between generations. Through unfiltered voices and lived experiences, the series reminds us that the courage of our seniors is not just part of our past, but a legacy that continues to shape who we are as a nation. Their stories deserve to be heard, remembered, and passed on.
NDTV
3 days ago
- Politics
- NDTV
How To Join Territorial Army Like MS Dhoni, Sachin Pilot, Anurag Thakur
If you've ever dreamt of serving the nation in uniform without leaving your current job, the Territorial Army (TA) might be the ideal path. Known as the "citizen's army," the TA allows professionals, politicians, sportspersons, and civilians to serve in the military while continuing their regular careers. Famous Faces In The Territorial Army Several well-known Indians have been part of the TA over the years: MS Dhoni was conferred the rank of Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) in 2011 with the 106 TA Battalion (Para) of the Parachute Regiment. Kapil Dev received the same honorary rank in 2008 with the 150 TA (Infantry) Battalion of the Punjab Regiment. Sachin Pilot, a Member of Parliament, became the first sitting MP to be commissioned as a regular officer in the TA with the rank of Lieutenant. Anurag Thakur joined as a Lieutenant in 2016 and was later promoted to Captain. Abhinav Bindra was inducted as Lieutenant Colonel in a TA battalion of the Sikh Regiment in 2011. These honorary appointments recognise individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation in their respective fields. What Is The Territorial Army? The Territorial Army is part of the Regular Indian Army. It is designed for citizens who wish to serve the nation while continuing their civilian jobs. TA personnel support the military during natural disasters, national emergencies, and in essential services. With around 50,000 personnel, the TA includes both Departmental Units (such as Railways, ONGC, IOC) and Non-Departmental Units (like Infantry and Ecological Battalions, Engineer Regiments). TA units have participated in major military operations including the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, as well as Operation Pawan (Sri Lanka) and Operation Rakshak (Punjab and J&K). They have also assisted during natural calamities like the Latur earthquake, Uttarkashi floods, and the Odisha Super Cyclone. In addition, the Eco Task Forces under the TA have planted more than 6.65 crore trees across 66,000 hectares, helping to restore degraded and hilly areas. How To Join The Territorial Army There are various ways to become part of the TA: Honorary Commission Individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the country in fields such as sports, public service, or the arts may be conferred honorary ranks by the President of India, as seen with personalities like MS Dhoni and Kapil Dev. This is a ceremonial role that recognizes national service and distinction. Join as a Jawan / JCO (Junior Commissioned Officer) Eligibility • Age: 18 to 42 years • Education: Minimum Class 10 (Matriculation); exceptions may apply in some cases Application Process Candidates must report to a TA unit or Recruiting Office on scheduled dates. The process includes a physical test, medical board, and police verification. Notifications are usually published in newspapers and on the official Indian Army website. Join as a Commissioned Officer (For Civilians) Eligibility Criteria • Nationality: Indian (male or female) • Age: 18 to 42 years (as of 10 June 2025) • Education: Graduate from a recognized university • Physical Standards: Must be medically and physically fit • Employment: Should be gainfully employed in government, public, private sector, or self-employed Selection Process This entry is through a written exam, followed by a Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, medical examination, and document verification. Admit cards are issued provisionally, and final eligibility is checked only after clearing the exam. Important Tips for Aspiring Candidates • Regularly check the Indian Army website for recruitment notifications • Prepare well for written and physical tests • Keep all required documents (educational, medical, employment) in order • Understand that field training and military discipline are part of the role • Be mentally prepared for temporary deployments when needed Joining the Territorial Army offers a rare opportunity to contribute to national service while continuing your professional career. Whether you are a civilian, a working professional, or someone admired for national achievements, the TA opens the door to serve the country in uniform - just like MS Dhoni, Sachin Pilot, and many others.
Time of India
4 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Bihar Regiment marks 44th foundation day of its 21st battalion
1 2 3 Patna: Bihar Regiment Centre (BRC) marked the 44th foundation day of its 21st battalion at a function held on its ground in Danapur cantonment near Patna on Sunday. The 21st battalion of the Bihar Regiment was raised on July 20, 1981, under Lt Col. Mohd Mansoor Mallick. From its inception, the battalion bore the motto 'karam hi dharma hai' (duty is our religion), a creed it upheld across decades of challenging service, said BRC commandant Brig Kamal Deep Jaspal. The foundation day event began with the traditional wreath-laying ceremony at the BRC war memorial by Brigadier Jaspal. Several retired officers and serving soldiers of the battalion had gathered to pay rich tributes to the martyrs. Brig Jaspal, while addressing the gathering, recalling the battalion's distinguished service record. "From the cold heights of Himachal to the hostile terrains of Uri, the 21st battalion has carried the flag of the Bihar Regiment high. Their resilience, valour and loyalty to the nation are an inspiration to every soldier," he said. The journey of the 21st battalion has been storied since its early years — from 1982 to 1985, it was in the mountainous terrains of Himachal Pradesh, honing skills and building camaraderie that would become the bedrock of its operational success. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo In 1990 during the height of insurgency in the northern theatre, the battalion was deployed for Operation Bajrang, a mission that required not just firepower but strategic restraint and deep engagement with local population. Their success earned widespread acclaim, the BRC commandant said. In addition the battalion's most intense years came during Operation Rakshak in Uri from 1999 to 2003, a volatile period marked by frequent encounters, infiltration attempts and extreme weather conditions. Yet the bravehearts of the 21st battalion never faltered, and neutralised numerous threats working closely with intelligence units to dismantle insurgent networks, the BRC officer said, adding in Sept 2014 they were once again called during Operation Alert, a high-stakes mission involving counter-insurgency and civil assistance during flood and internal disturbances.
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Soldier hurt on kerosene collection duty in J&K entitled to war injury pension: High court
Chandigarh: The Punjab and Haryana high court has made it clear that a soldier sustaining injuries while part of a working party assigned to collect kerosene oil using an official vehicle in the sensitive Jammu and Kashmir region is entitled to a war injury classification—thereby qualifying for a disability pension. "Once a working party is detailed for collection of kerosene oil and they proceed on a govt vehicle it would be a part of 'Operation Rakshak'…. Any injury caused to any person, which is of the nature of causing permanent disability or death, would invite war injury pension or war death pension as the case may be," the high court has held. "Operation Rakshak" is the Army's ongoing counter insurgency and counter terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir. A division bench comprising Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Meenakshi I Mehta has passed the orders while dismissing a petition filed by the Central govt. In its plea, the Centre had challenged the order dated May 17, 2023, passed by the Chandigarh bench of Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) in which it had allowed the application filed by former Sepoy B Rama Krishna for claiming the war injury pension. The benefits were allowed to him from 2012 when the incident took place. The govt contended that the AFT has misinterpreted the rules because the soldier had injuries in a simple accident while he was a member of the working party for collecting kerosene oil and thus, it cannot be said to be a war injury or an injury caused during the operation. After hearing the plea, the HC observed that it is an admitted position that when the applicant (Sepoy B Rama Krishna) suffered injuries, the operation had been notified in the area and while being a member of the working party detailed for collection of the kerosene oil, the accident occurred, and the Gypsy occupied by him skidded. "We find that the AFT has correctly interpreted the said provisions and proceeded to grant war injury pension, w.e.f Sept 21, 2012, for life along-with attendant allowance as applicable to the concerned injured soldier," the HC has held while dismissing the Centre's petition. The case was heard on July 1 and a copy of the order released on Thursday.
New Indian Express
02-07-2025
- General
- New Indian Express
Army honours Kargil martyr Santhosh Kumar at his house in Kochi
KOCHI: Celebrating the 26th anniversary of Kargil victory, a batch of serving army personnel deployed at Kargil, visited Priya K G, the wife of lance naik Santhosh Kumar P K, at her residence at Vazhakulam near Muvattupuzha on Tuesday. The function was held as part of the Ghar Ghar Shaurya Samman Mahotsav organised to honour Kargil Martyrs. The team, led by Naib Subedar Kingslin, garlanded the picture of Santhosh and paid floral tributes to his picture. A memento and citation were handed over to the wife, his mother Lakshmi Amma and son Arjun. Regiment Havildar Major Rajeesh K K, ex-servicemen and NCC cadets were present on the occasion. 'He had nursed the dream of serving the Indian Army from his childhood. Santhosh joined the Indian Army on October 1, 1984, and served the nation for 14 years and 279 days. He had participated in four major army operations, including Operation Pawan, Operation Rakshak and Operation Vijay. We got married in 1993. He was honoured with the Sena Medal posthumously,' said Priya. Santhosh made the sacrifice on July 6, 1999, while serving at Batalik sector in Kargil, while participating in Operation Vijay to reclaim Indian territory occupied by Pakistan Army. Honouring his martyrdom, the residents of Vettimattam have built a memorial and the Thodupuzha municipality has named a park after him.
