Centenary Celebration: Indian Army Honours Col Kanwar Sain Bakshi, 1965 War Veteran
The Indian Army has honored Colonel Kanwar Sain Bakshi, a retired officer awarded the AVSM, on his 100th birthday, recognizing him as one of the most notable veterans of the MAHAR Regiment. In a tribute celebrating a life marked by military service, leadership, and nation-building, the Army described Col Bakshi as an exemplary figure of duty, loyalty, and unwavering service to India.
Col Bakshi's military journey is tied to significant events in the Indian Army's post-independence history. His experiences range from commanding troops during the 1965 India-Pakistan War to training soldiers and managing numerous prisoners after the 1971 War, illustrating his battlefield leadership and administrative prowess.
Commanded 2 MAHAR During the Battle of Asal Uttar
A pivotal moment in Col Bakshi's career was his role as the Commanding Officer of 2 MAHAR during the 1965 India-Pakistan War.
Under his command, the battalion took part in the Battle of Asal Uttar in the Punjab sector, a renowned defensive operation that stopped a major Pakistani armored offensive.
Col Bakshi guided 2 MAHAR through challenging combat conditions, contributing to the sector's defense. The bravery and determination shown by the battalion's soldiers earned them the Battle Honour "Asal Uttar" and the Theatre Honour "Punjab."
These honors became a lasting part of the battalion’s legacy, reflecting the collective courage of its troops under Col Bakshi’s leadership.
His role in the battle established him as a respected combat leader and enhanced the reputation of the MAHAR Regiment as a reliable and battle-ready infantry unit.
Record Tenure as Commandant of MAHAR Regimental Centre
After his operational roles, Col Bakshi served as the Commandant of the MAHAR Regimental Centre for about seven-and-a-half years, marking a record tenure.
His extensive period at the centre allowed him to significantly influence the training and development of officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, and soldiers.
As Commandant, he was in charge of training, administration, discipline, and the professional growth of the regiment's recruits. His emphasis on excellence, pride, and military values left a lasting mark on the institution.
Col Bakshi is remembered by veterans not just as a senior officer, but also as a mentor who reinforced the MAHAR Regiment's traditions and foundations.
Oversaw Historic Presentation of Colours in 1970
During his time as Commandant, Col Bakshi oversaw preparations for the 1970 Presentation of Colours to the MAHAR Regiment.
This ceremony is a significant event for a regiment, symbolizing its honor, sacrifices, and identity.
Col Bakshi’s management of the ceremony highlighted the trust in his leadership and administrative skills, marking a key moment in the regiment's history and strengthening its identity.
Established Massive Prisoner-of-War Camp After 1971 War
Following the 1971 War, Col Bakshi was tasked with setting up a large prisoner-of-war camp in Dhana, Madhya Pradesh.
The camp housed over 15,000 prisoners, requiring extensive military, administrative, and logistical efforts.
Running such a facility involved managing security, accommodation, food, sanitation, medical care, documentation, and compliance with POW regulations.
Col Bakshi’s successful oversight of the camp demonstrated his capability in handling complex responsibilities beyond combat. His role required discipline, organizational skill, humanitarian sensitivity, and coordination among various agencies.
This chapter of his career is a noteworthy yet lesser-known aspect of India’s military history post-1971.
Colonel of the MAHAR Regiment Conveys Army’s Gratitude
In recognition of Col Bakshi’s centenary, the Colonel of the MAHAR Regiment expressed the Army's and the regiment's gratitude and best wishes.
He was lauded as a symbol of dedication to duty, loyalty, and service to the nation.
The tribute highlighted his impact as a combat leader, institution builder, trainer, and mentor, influencing many generations of soldiers.
For current and former members of the MAHAR Regiment, Col Bakshi’s life embodies the core values of military service, including courage, leadership, and dedication to troop welfare and development.
A Soldier, Leader, Mentor and Legend
As Col Kanwar Sain Bakshi reaches his 100th year, his life story is a remarkable narrative of service during key historical periods in independent India.
His leadership of 2 MAHAR at the Battle of Asal Uttar, his extended tenure as Commandant, his involvement in the Presentation of Colours, and his management of a POW camp demonstrate the breadth and depth of his military career.
Col Bakshi’s influence continues through the officers and soldiers he led, trained, and inspired.
On his milestone birthday, the Indian Army honored him as a soldier, leader, mentor, and legend, whose life remains a source of pride for the MAHAR Regiment and the nation.
