Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, fondly known as Sam Bahadur, remains one of India’s most celebrated military leaders. Born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, he became India's first Field Marshal in 1973.

The title “Bahadur”, meaning brave, was a tribute to his fearless leadership.

Manekshaw’s journey began at Sherwood College, Nainital, before he moved to Hindu Sabha College, Amritsar. He later trained at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (UK).

His distinguished career saw him playing pivotal roles in the 1947-48 India-Pakistan war, 1962 Indo-China war, and most notably, leading India to victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war as Chief of the Army Staff.

A fluent Punjabi speaker, Manekshaw was known for his charismatic personality and signature Parsi cap. His bravery during World War II's Burma campaign earned him the Military Cross, and his exceptional service was later honored with the Padma Vibhushan.

Recently, his legacy was immortalized by Bollywood actor Vicky Kaushal in the biopic "Sam Bahadur", celebrating his unmatched contribution to India.