As the nation observes the martyrdom day of Captain Vikram Batra on Tuesday, heartfelt tributes have poured in from across Himachal Pradesh, including from one of his childhood friends who shared memories of growing up with the brave soldier. Batra, a national hero of the Kargil War, was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry award in India.
Childhood Memories and Last Meeting
Ravinder Sood, a childhood friend of Captain Batra, recalled their formative years together in Palampur. They played table tennis, celebrated birthdays, and shared countless moments of joy. One of his most cherished memories is the meeting before Batra left for the Kargil front in 1999. Along with their common friend Amit Sood, they met at Joy Restaurant in Palampur and spent nearly three hours talking. "We were so engrossed in our conversation that we never realised when it became dark. None of us imagined that it would be our last meeting," Sood said, getting emotional.
Supreme Sacrifice on July 9, 1999
Only a few days later, on July 9, 1999, the heartbreaking news arrived that Captain Batra had laid down his life while fighting fearlessly to recapture strategic heights in the Kargil sector from Pakistani intruders. His extraordinary courage and leadership during the war earned him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. Batra, who famously declared, "Yeh Dil Maange More," became a symbol of courage, patriotism, and selfless service. His sacrifice continues to inspire generations of Indians, particularly the youth, to place the nation above self.
Tributes Across Palampur
A number of functions were held where people, schoolchildren, and citizens of Palampur paid floral tributes to him and remembered him for his unmatched valour and unwavering commitment to the country. Citizens described him as a true hero whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.
Local MLA's Tribute
Local MLA Ashish Butail said, "Captain Vikram Batra's supreme sacrifice will forever be etched in the hearts of the people of Himachal Pradesh and the country. His life is a timeless example of courage, sacrifice and unconditional love for the motherland."
