Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar, Shaurya Chakra: Memorial Page

Honoring the indomitable spirit of the Indian Navy on Navy Day! 🇮🇳

We salute the brave hearts safeguarding our maritime frontiers. Their unwavering dedication and sacrifice inspire us all.

Let's learn resilience, discipline, and patriotism from our naval heroes.

Happy Indian Navy Day! ⚓🌊

⚓

The Legacy Continues -

In the heart of Bengaluru, the Bhandarkar family stands proud, embodying a legacy of dedication and commitment to Bharat with Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar, Shaurya Chakra: Memorial Page. 🇮🇳

Col Arun Bhandarkar (Retd), the venerable elder brother, paved the way for hero Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar Shaurya Chakra (P), while the legacy flourishes with son Maj Nirbhay Bhandarkar, daughter-in-law Akriti Awasthi, and second son Lt Cdr Akshay Bhandarkar. 🌟

Mrs. shakunthalabhandarkar now champions the cause of Veeranganas and veteran families through Metamorphes Foundation, adding a compassionate touch to their collective journey. 🙌🤍

A family united by service, an unbroken legacy, and a commitment to the spirit of Bharat. 🏠🌺

Remembering the courage and sacrifice of Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC on this Guru Nanak Jayanti.

His legacy lives on as a shining example of fearlessness and devotion.

May Guru Nanak's divine light guide us in preserving and honouring the memories of our heroes. 🌟🙏

Flight Sergeant H Thakur hailed from Kolkata in West Bengal. He was enrolled into the IAF and was trained as a technician. Later he trained as an air crew and became a Flight Sergeant. By 1971, Flt Sgt H Thakur had flown as part of numerous missions and had gathered substantial experience.

Flt Sgt H Thakur was serving with 43 Sqn, known as “Ibexes” with Wg Cdr KC(Koka)Sharma as its Commanding Officer. 43 Squadron of the Indian Air Force was formed at AF Station Jorhat in the Eastern Sector on 20 Jan 1958 and was equipped with C-47 Dakota aircraft. As the war broke out on 03 Dec 1971 with Pakistan, the Squadron operated from various Air Bases and undertook numerous air missions.

Though the 1971 war was over on 16 Dec when the Pakistani forces surrendered en mass, border skirmishes in some pockets and air support operations were continuing. Flt Sgt Thakur was tasked to undertake one such air operation on 17 Dec 1971. The assigned task was an air support mission on the Mohanbari- Moriganj axis in the eastern sector.

Besides Flt Sgt Thakur as Flight Engineer, the other crew members included Flt Lt Joaquim D’Souza as captain, Fg Offr S Nandi as co-pilot, Plt Offr R B Umralikar as Navigator. The aircrew carried out their pre-flight checks and took off in their Dakota aircraft (BJ-622) as planned on 17 Dec 1971.

The flight was uneventful initially but later developed some technical snag which made the aircraft uncontrollable. Despite the best efforts of Flt Sgt Thakur and other aircrew members, the aircraft crashed over the Machuka area.

Flt Sgt Thakur and other crew members could not survive the crash and lost their lives.

𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗵𝗲𝘀 remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and ensures they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/

Honouring and celebrating the spirit of Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC, his legacy lives on through the Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC Award. 🏅✨

Curated by his devoted wife shakunthalabhandarkar, co-founder of Metamorphes Foundation, and the entire Metamorphes team, this award is more than recognition—it's an inspiration.

Awarding values, dedication, and performance, it stands as a tool urging young minds to reach for the stars. 🚀📚

Let's keep his legacy alive by fostering the leaders of tomorrow. To know more about this award or to participate, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/ajit-bhandarkar-award/

In a powerful book called The Saga of a BraveHeart, Mrs. shakunthalabhandarkar, a beacon of strength and resilience, has penned a tribute to her late husband, Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC.

Her unwavering dedication to sharing his story knows no bounds. Wherever she goes, whoever she meets, she carries his legacy with her—copies of the book that echo the tale of courage and sacrifice.

Join us in honouring a love that transcends time, and a story that continues to inspire hearts. 📖🌟

Dedication is the quiet drive that pushes us to surpass our limits and achieve the extraordinary. ✨

In the footsteps of leaders like Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC, whose unwavering commitment to bringing peace to our nation exemplifies the true power of dedication.

As a leader, he took his people at par, making them better at what they do. Today, let's draw inspiration from his legacy and embrace undivided dedication on our journey to greatness. 🇮🇳💪

Flt Lt Lawrence Frederic Pereira hailed from Mumbai in Maharshtra and was born on 10th June 1945. He was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 10 Aug 1964 at the age of 19 years. He was commissioned in the flying stream of the IAF and got trained as a fighter pilot. After completing his flying training he got posted to 220 Squadron based at Air Force Station Pune.

In 1971, Flt Lt Lawrence Frederic Pereira was serving with 26 Sqn operating SU-7 aircraft but was deputed to serve with 8 TAC (Tactical Air Centre) supporting army operations in Shakargarh sector on the western front.

On 4 December 1971, the Indian army made a thrust to defeat Pakistan in important sectors. The Skinner’s Horse battalion in unison with the 1st Dogra regiment advanced towards Chak Amru crossing the international borders into enemy territory. The primary primary objective of the 1st Corps controlling the operations in that area was to capture a dominant position in Shakargarh.

Flt Lt Pereira as FAC was directing strike missions of the IAF to hit enemy targets in support of ongoing army operations. He was required to direct close air support aircraft to enemy targets from forward locations. His directions were responsible for many successful attacks by IAF aircraft on enemy concentrations.

However on 14 December 1971, while performing his duties, Flt Lt Pereira was hit by enemy bullets when an enemy aircraft strafed the brigade location at Shakargarh. He later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred. His last words to his comrade were, “ tell my little girl (his wife Isabelle ) to be brave".

Flt Lt Pereira was buried in the RA (Royal Artillery) Cemetery, Garha Road, Jalandhar Cantt with full military honours on 15th Dec 1971.

𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗵𝗲𝘀 remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and makes sure that they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/

As we celebrate Children's Day, let's remember the little ones who aspire to be future defenders of

Their dreams are the building blocks of a strong and resilient India. Saluting the spirit of our young patriots and the Indian Army!" 🇮🇳💙

Honouring the unyielding spirit of our war heroes this Diwali, whose sacrifices light up the path of bravery and courage.

As we celebrate the festival of lights, remember our heroes who gave everything for our safety.

May this encourage and inspire us to spread love and kindness.

Wishing you a Diwali filled with gratitude, remembrance, and the enduring flame of hope. 🪔🇮🇳

May the light of Dhanteras diyas bring success and good fortune to your doorstep.

Warm wishes on Dhanteras!

In the memory of our hero, Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC 🇮🇳:

"The Indian Armed Forces are not just warriors; they are also peacemakers, protectors, and heroes in the truest sense." 🕊️

We honour the legacy of a true patriot, a guardian of our nation, and a symbol of bravery.

Sir, your sacrifice for our country will never be forgotten. 🙏

"A soldier does not fight because he hates what is in front of him; he fights because he loves what he left behind." 🕊️

This quote highlights the essence of every braveheart who has sacrificed everything for the love of their nation. It's not driven by hatred but by an unwavering devotion to the loved ones and the land they hold dear.

We remember and honour the courageous soul of Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC, who left behind his family and comfort to stand at the forefront, defending our homeland. His sacrifice serves as a constant reminder that we must strive to work for the betterment of our nation, for his legacy, and for a brighter future.

Let us unite in our commitment to uphold the values they fought for, to protect the dreams they cherished, and to build a nation that they would be proud of. 🇮🇳🙏

https://awwalitfestpune.com/authors/
Dear friends and well wishers,
Overwhelming to share the news that I will participating in the AWWA Lit Fest.
My book Saga of a Braveheart, will be discussed on 28th Pune, Lawns at 9.30 am
Utmost regards and grateful for all your support. Jai hind
Metamorphes shakunthalabhandarkar White Knight Corps Samarpana PES University Nccindia._ Honourpoint Shakunthala Bhandarkar ADGPI - Indian Army Northern Command - Indian Army IA Southern Command
Maya Films

Authors - awwalitfestpune.com authors authors Mrs Tanushree Podder Mrs Tanushree worked in the corporate sector for eight long years before she quit the rat race to write. A management graduate, she has worn several hats both as an individual and an army wife. A well-known travel writer and novelist, she is passionate about trav...

"Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it, it flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it."

🙏🌟 As the youth of our great nation, let's join hands and work tirelessly to ensure a better tomorrow, where the tricolour soars high with pride. 🙌

Let us remember the sacrifices of our Bravehearts, like Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar Shaurya Chakra and take inspiration from him and others to keep the pride of our nation intact in the best way we can!

Wishing you a triumphant Dussehra!

May the forces of good always prevail in your life. 🏹🙏

Flt Lt K L Bajaj was born on 24 Dec 1943 and was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 16 May 1965 at the age of 21 years. He joined the flying stream of the IAF and was trained as a helicopter pilot as part of the 93rd Pilots' course.

In 1971, Flt Lt KL Bajaj was serving with 114 Helicopter Unit now known as "Siachen Pioneers." 114 HU was formed at Leh on 01 Apr 1964 with an establishment of 10 Allouette helicopters with Squadron Leader Arvind Dalaya as its first commanding officer.

As war broke out with Pakistan on the 3rd of December, 1971, the unit with Squadron Leader Mohan Chandra as its commanding officer was tasked for various air missions. Flt Lt KL Bajaj was detailed to carry out one such mission on 11 Dec 1971. It was a Casualty Evacuation mission at Kargil with Fg Offr RR Patel as his co-pilot.

On 11 December 1971, Flt Lt KL Bajaj along with his co-pilot Fg Offr RR Patel in their Chetak (Z-366) helicopter took off as planned for the mission from Srinagar. After picking up the casualty at Kargil Flt Lt KL Bajaj took off again for Srinagar.

While coming back from the Casualty Evacuation mission, Flt Lt KL Bajaj heard a panicky R/T call from the FAC (Forward Air Controller) on the ground. Upon sensing immediate threat, Flt Lt Bajaj decided to descend to the valley bottom, to avoid detection.

However while doing so, his Chetak hit some HT cables and crashed at Point MU7573. The crash caused severe damage to the helicopter and Flt Lt KL Bajaj sustained serious injuries. He later succumbed to his injuries

Metamorphes remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and makes sure that they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/

"A nation's freedom is its most valuable treasure, and those who protect it are indeed blessed beyond measure." 🙏🌍

Our freedom is a gift, a beacon of hope that lights our path, and it's these courageous souls who safeguard it, often at great personal sacrifice. Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC is truly an inspiration for generations to come.

As we go about our lives, let's cherish this invaluable gift of freedom and remember the blessings it brings to our everyday existence. May we never take it for granted, and may we always honour those who protect it.

Throwing it back to the days of duty and dedication with our dear Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar Shaurya Chakra.

Can you spot him in this historic moment? 🇮🇳🙌

Flt Lt Ramesh Gulabrao Kadam hailed from Maharashtra and was commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 18 Apr 1964 at the age of 22 years. He joined the flying stream of the IAF and was trained as a fighter pilot as part of the 87th Pilots' course.

In 1971, Flt Lt RG Kadam was serving with TACDE (Tactics & Air Combat Development Establishment) devoted purely to the development of combat tactics for fighter aircraft of the IAF. As the war with Pakistan became imminent, Flt Lt RG Kadam was sent on attachment to 26 Sqn. 26 Sqn, known as “Warriors” and was based at Air Force Station Adampur.

As the war broke out on 03 Dec 1971 with Pakistan, the Squadron with Wing Commander Ram Krishna Batra as its commanding officer undertook various offensive air missions. Flt Lt RG Kadam was tasked to undertake one such operation on 08 Dec 1971. The operation was a mission to attack the Risalewala airfield in the Faisalabad district of Punjab province in Pakistan.

On 8 December 1971, Flt Lt RG Kadam in his Sukhoi-7 (B-910) took off as planned for the mission from Adampur. As the target was important for the enemy, it was heavily defended by anti-aircraft guns. Despite the threat of enemy air defence assets, Flt Lt RG Kadam went for the attack. However, his aircraft received direct hits from the anti-aircraft guns and probably crashed near Risalewala.

He is presumed to have been taken over as a POW (Prisoner of War).

Presently, Flt Lt Ramesh Gulabrao Kadam's name features on the official list of the ’54 Personnel Missing in Action’, tabled in the Lok Sabha in 1979 by Shri Samarendra Kundu, Minister of State of External Affairs at that time.

Metamorphes remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and makes sure that they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/

Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC, was a dedicated soldier who fought for the nation. He did not care about his life, just like each of our soldiers as they came with a clear mission to protect the nation's pride.

Our brave men stay away from home and fight under any circumstance to ensure we all are safe and our nation is proud and happy. Let us all salute to these brave men and do our bit to help keep the nation's pride intact.

Sqn Ldr Amalendu Bhushan Samanta hailed from Kolkata in West Bengal and was commissioned in the flying stream of the IAF and was trained as a fighter pilot.

In 1971, Sqn Ldr AB Samanta was serving with 37 Sqn, known as “Black Panthers” and was based at Air Force Station Kalaikunda in West Bengal. The 37 Squadron was raised on 23 Dec 1957 at Air Force Station Palam with Squadron Leader Amrit Lal Bajaj as its first Commanding Officer.

As the PAF attacked 11 Air Force bases on 03 Dec 1971, the Indian Air Force decided to launch counter-offensive operations on the eastern and western front. 37 Sqn with Wing Commander Swaroop Krishna Kaul as its commanding officer was tasked to undertake offensive missions against the targets on the eastern front. The first attack wave was launched on 04 Dec 1971 by 37 Sqn from Air Force Base at Tezpur. Sqn Ldr Samanta was tasked for one such strike mission on 04 Dec.

The area was heavily defended by anti-aircraft guns, but showing great courage, Sqn Ldr Samanta still pressed on with the attack causing extensive damage. However, while carrying out the Sqn Ldr AB Samanta’s aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft guns. Although he tried his best to bring his aircraft back, he could not succeed as the aircraft had taken extensive hits and eventually crashed.

Metamorphes remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and ensures they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/

Dare to Dream, Dare to Be Fearless! 🌟

Embrace Your Passions and Conquer Your Fears. Let the Braveheart in You Lead the Way.

Lt. Col. Ajit Bhandarkar SC, was a fearless soldier who fought for the nation till the very end of his life. His dedication to fight for and protect the pride of his nation, while supporting his team members is what makes him truly special and an inspiration to all.

Be fearless and follow your dreams!!!!

Today, we honour the indomitable spirit of Mahatma Gandhi, a beacon of hope and change.

His teachings on truth, nonviolence, and justice continue to guide us towards a brighter future. Let's unite in the pursuit of peace, harmony, and equality.

Happy Gandhi Jayanti! 🕊️🇮🇳

AC1 PS Sharma was enrolled into the IAF in the year 1970 and was trained as a technician. After completing his training, he got posted to 220 Squadron based at Air Force Station Uttarlai in Barmer district of Rajasthan, as his first assignment.

In 1971, AC1 PS Sharma was serving with 220 Sqn, known as “Desert Tigers” and was based at Air Force Station Uttarlai in Rajasthan. 220 Squadron was formed at Air Force Station Pune (2 Wing AF) on 9 Jan 63 with Squadron Leader Norman Foster Watts as its first commanding officer.

As the war broke out on 03 Dec 1971 with Pakistan, the Squadron undertook various offensive air missions. As Air Force Base at Uttarlai had 220 Sqn and other important Air Force assets, it was also an important target for the enemy Air Force. The PAF carried out one such attack on Air Force Base at Uttarlai on 11 Dec 1971.

On 11 Dec 1971, AC1 PS Sharma was on the tarmac engaged in the given task, when a PAF aircraft struck Uttarlai airfield. PAF with F-104 aircraft breaching the Indian air defence reached Barmer and carried out a strafing attack on Uttarlai airfield.

AC1 PS Sharma was hit by a ricochet off a blastpen and got seriously injured. Later he succumbed to his injuries and was killed in action.

Metamorphes remembers our nation's heroes through our 𝗨𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗲𝘀 initiative and makes sure that they remain in our hearts and minds forever.

To know more, check out https://www.metamorphes.org/