The upcoming film 'Ikkis', starring Amar Singh Chamkila fame actor, promises to bring one of the Indian Army's most valiant stories to the silver screen. At its heart is the true and awe-inspiring tale of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, whose extraordinary courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak War cemented his place as a military legend. His actions in the pivotal Battle of Basantar are a masterclass in raw bravery and unwavering commitment to duty.
The Battle of Basantar: A Crucible of Fire
In December 1971, as war raged between India and Pakistan, the Western Sector witnessed some of the most intense fighting. The Battle of Basantar, fought in the Shakargarh sector, was a critical engagement. On 16 December 1971, the 17 Poona Horse regiment was tasked with establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar River. Their objective was to blunt a formidable Pakistani counter-attack led by the 13th Lancers and 31st Baluch, equipped with powerful American Patton tanks.
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, just 21 years old and fresh from the National Defence Academy, was commanding a troop of Centurion tanks. Despite his youth and relative inexperience, he displayed the tactical acumen and fearless leadership of a seasoned warrior. As Pakistani forces launched aggressive assaults to dislodge the Indian positions, Khetarpal's squadron found itself at the spearhead of the defence.
The Final Stand of a Hero
The climax of Khetarpal's heroism unfolded with relentless intensity. Spotting enemy tanks advancing threateningly towards his squadron's position, he made a decisive move. Without a moment's hesitation for his own safety, he maneuvered his tank forward, placing himself directly in the line of fire to protect his comrades. In the fierce duel that followed, Khetarpal's gunnery was spectacular. He single-handedly destroyed multiple enemy Patton tanks, crippling the enemy's advance.
However, during this fierce engagement, his own Centurion tank was hit. The shell damaged his tank and severely injured him. At this critical juncture, his squadron commander radioed, asking if he wanted to fall back. Khetarpal's immortal reply was: "No, sir! I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working."
With his lower limbs grievously wounded, he continued to fight. Displaying superhuman grit, he engaged and destroyed another enemy tank. It was only after this final act that a second direct hit proved fatal. Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal made the supreme sacrifice, but not before ensuring his squadron held its ground. His actions were directly responsible for the successful defence of the strategic bridgehead at Basantar.
Legacy and Recognition: The Param Vir Chakra
For his conspicuous bravery, outstanding leadership, and spirit of sacrifice beyond the call of duty, Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded India's highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra. His citation reads as a testament to his raw valour, noting his "bravery, cool courage and utter disregard for his personal safety."
Years later, a poignant revelation added a profound layer to this story. In 2001, a retired Pakistani brigadier, Khawaja Mohammad Naser, who fought in the same battle, met Khetarpal's father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. He emotionally revealed that it was his tank troop that Arun had engaged that day. He expressed his immense respect for the young officer whose courage had stopped their assault, stating that if Khetarpal had not stood his ground, the Pakistani attack could have succeeded.
The film 'Ikkis', directed by Sriram Raghavan, seeks to immortalize this profound story of valour. The title itself refers to the age at which Khetarpal achieved immortal fame. By bringing this chapter of military history to a wider audience, the film serves as a powerful tribute to a young man whose 21 years contained more honour and courage than a full lifetime. The story of Arun Khetarpal remains a timeless inspiration, a shining example of the motto of the Poona Horse: "Strength and Faith."
