 Dhan Singh Thapa's name stands as a beacon of bravery, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit.){kind=link}
In the annals of India’s military history, Lieutenant Colonel (then Major) Dhan Singh Thapa’s name stands as a beacon of bravery, sacrifice, and indomitable spirit. A soldier who embodied the motto of the 8 Gorkha Rifles, “Kafar Hunu Bhanda Marnu Ramro” (Better to die than live like a coward), Major Thapa’s heroics in the 1962 Sino-Indian War remain legendary. His gallantry in the Battle of Sirijap, where he led his men against overwhelming Chinese forces, earned him India’s highest wartime gallantry award—the Param Vir Chakra. His story continues to inspire countless generations of soldiers and citizens alike, exemplifying the unyielding spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
Early Life and Military Career
Born on 28 April 1928 in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, Major Dhan Singh Thapa hailed from a Nepalese-origin family. His father, Mr. P.S. Thapa, instilled in him the values of discipline and courage. A passionate soldier, he was commissioned into the 1st Battalion of the 8 Gorkha Rifles (1/8 GR) of the Indian Army on 28 August 1949. Apart from being a devoted warrior, he was an exceptional sportsman, particularly skilled in football. His agility and quick reflexes on the field translated well into his battlefield prowess, making him an exceptional leader and strategist.
During his years of service, he married Mrs. Shukla Thapa, with whom he had three children—Poornima Thapa, Poonma Thapa, and Param Deep Thapa. A committed officer, he devoted himself to the protection of India’s sovereignty, and his mettle would be tested in the unforgiving battlegrounds of Ladakh. His deep sense of duty and love for his country made him an inspiration to his fellow soldiers and a formidable leader on the frontlines.
Background to the battle
Since gaining independence, India sought to maintain friendly relations with China. However, tensions began escalating when China laid territorial claims over Indian lands. The situation deteriorated when China constructed the Tibet-Sinkiang Road in 1957, occupying parts of Aksai Chin. By 1959, Chinese forces had further intruded into Ladakh, setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation. Despite diplomatic efforts, the Chinese continued their incursions, testing India’s patience and military preparedness.
On 20 October 1962, the Chinese launched a full-scale invasion on multiple fronts, including the treacherous mountains of Ladakh. The Indian Army, though outnumbered and ill-equipped for the harsh conditions, stood its ground with unwavering determination. Major Dhan Singh Thapa, who commanded the Sirijap post near Pangong Lake, found himself at the heart of the storm. The terrain was unforgiving, the weather harsh, and the enemy ruthless, but he and his men were prepared to fight to the last breath.
The Battle of Sirijap
Major Thapa and his men were positioned in an isolated and exposed post when they came under intense Chinese mortar and artillery bombardment. The first enemy assault was met with fierce resistance, and despite being heavily outnumbered, Major Thapa’s men repulsed the attack, inflicting severe casualties on the aggressors. His leadership and strategic acumen ensured that his men fought with maximum efficiency, making every bullet count.
A second wave of Chinese troops, in even greater numbers, launched another attack after relentless artillery shelling. Once again, under the steadfast leadership of Major Thapa, the Gorkhas fought back with unwavering courage, causing significant losses to the enemy. The spirit of the Gorkhas remained unbroken as they fought with grit, repelling the invaders with whatever resources they had at their disposal.
The final and most formidable assault came with the Chinese employing tanks in addition to their infantry. By this time, the defenders had suffered severe casualties, yet they refused to surrender. Fighting till the last man, the post was eventually overrun. However, Major Thapa did not yield—he emerged from his trench and engaged in brutal hand-to-hand combat with Chinese soldiers before he was overpowered and believed to have been killed. His defiance in the face of death became the stuff of legend, a testament to his unbreakable will and devotion to duty.
The Aftermath and Recognition
The Sirijap post was lost, but Major Thapa and his men had delayed the Chinese advance long enough for the Yula post to make a tactical withdrawal. Except for one soldier who escaped and two captured, the rest of the Gorkhas laid down their lives fighting to the last breath. Their sacrifice ensured that other Indian positions could regroup and mount further resistance in the war.
Initially presumed dead, Major Thapa was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his conspicuous bravery and exemplary leadership. However, it was later discovered that he had been taken prisoner by the Chinese. He endured months of captivity, facing interrogation and extreme hardship, before being released in May 1963. His return was celebrated across the nation, and he resumed his military service, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring.
He passed away on 5 September 2005 at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering courage and patriotism. His name remains etched in the history of the Indian Army as one of its bravest sons, whose sacrifices continue to inspire future generations of warriors.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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