In a moving display of remembrance and respect, the residents of Shamsher Nagar (Defence Colony) in Ludhiana's BRS Nagar area gathered on Tuesday for a solemn function. The community came together to honour the valiant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, a conflict that led to the creation of Bangladesh.
A Colony Named After a Hero
The event held deep significance as the colony itself is named in memory of Second Lieutenant Shamsher Singh, a gallant officer who was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), India's second-highest wartime military decoration. The ceremony saw participation from society members, including veterans from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, who assembled to pay their heartfelt tributes.
Recounting Tales of Valour
Lt Col J S Gill (Retd), the president of the Shamsher Nagar Housing Society, welcomed all attendees to the poignant event. A central and emotionally charged moment was the reading of 2nd Lt Shamsher Singh's official MVC citation. This duty was performed by Colonel G S Ramana (Retd), a veteran from the Regiment of Guards—the same regiment in which the war hero served.
Col Ramana not only read the citation but also provided a vivid elucidation, describing the fierce scenes of the Battle of Operation Hilli. He narrated how 2nd Lt Shamsher Singh displayed exceptional courage and bravery in the face of enemy fire before laying down his life for the nation. The recounting of his sacrifice deeply moved the audience, connecting them directly to the heroism of 1971.
Honouring the Past, Securing the Future
Following the wreath-laying ceremony at the colony's memorial, the society looked towards the future by inaugurating a practical new initiative. To enhance the security and safety of the residents, the community officially launched the functioning of a boom barrier at the main entrance of Shamsher Nagar. This step marks a commitment to protecting the present-day community that lives in the shadow of great historical bravery.
The event successfully bridged the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of India's war heroes remains alive in the hearts of citizens while also taking concrete steps for the well-being of the living community.
