Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 — 5 Bravehearts Who Led India To Victory

Every year, 26th July is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day is a solemn reminder of India's triumph against all odds in the 1999 Kargil War. It commemorates the brave soldiers who reclaimed Indian territory from infiltrations in the high-altitude battlegrounds of Ladakh. Their courage and patriotism remain etched in the soul of the nation.

As we mark Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025, let us remember five legendary warriors whose names will forever resonate with valour and sacrifice.

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1. Captain Vikram Batra

Captain Vikram Batra, of the 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, became the face of India's valour during the Kargil War. His fearless leadership in recapturing Point 5140 and later Point 4875 earned him the nation’s highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra. Widely known as the "Lion of Kargil," he led his team under intense enemy fire. His iconic radio message, "Yeh Dil Maange More," symbolised the spirit of Indian soldiers on the frontlines. On July 7, 1999, he sacrificed his life while rescuing a fellow soldier during a counter-attack at Point 4875. His story continues to inspire millions even today and remains one of the most celebrated icons of India’s military history.

2. Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav

Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav of the Grenadiers Regiment was just 19 when he was part of the Ghatak platoon assigned to capture Tiger Hill. Though he was shot 17 times, he still managed to climb a vertical cliff face, scale the rock wall, reach the top, and neutralise enemy bunkers. He was the youngest to receive the Param Vir Chakra for his incredible courage. The Param Vir Chakra was initially awarded to him posthumously. Later, it was found that he had survived the mission and was recovering in a hospital. His resilience continues to be a benchmark of military courage.

3. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar

A soldier from the 13 JAK Rifles, Rifleman Sanjay Kumar displayed fearless determination during the capture of Area Flat Top on July 4, 1999. Charged with storming a fortified enemy position, he led the charge despite being wounded in the chest and forearm. Despite all the injuries, he refused to stop. Summoning every ounce of his strength, he charged forward and killed multiple enemies in hand-to-hand combat. Without pausing, he seized an enemy machine gun and moved toward a second bunker. His audacious bravery earned him the Param Vir Chakra and secured a strategic win for the Indian side in the Batalik sector.

4. Captain Anuj Nayyar

Captain Anuj Nayyar of the 17 Jat Regiment played a key role in the capture of Pimple Complex near Tiger Hill. His unit faced intense artillery and machine gunfire, yet Nayyar led the assault with exceptional calm and tactical brilliance. The final phase of the operation targeted the last enemy bunker. While clearing it, an enemy RPG struck Nayyar directly, killing him on the spot. The mission was accomplished on 8 July with the capture of Pimple II, but it came at the cost of Anuj Nayyar’s ultimate sacrifice.

5. Lieutenant Saurabh Kalia

Lieutenant Saurabh Kalia of the 4 Jat Regiment was among the earliest Indian soldiers to confront the intruders in the Kargil sector. In May 1999, Lt Kalia and five soldiers encountered Pakistani forces and were captured after a fierce gunfight. Held in Pakistani captivity, Lt Kalia and his men were subjected to brutal torture. Their bodies were returned in a mutilated condition, shocking the nation and igniting a wave of anger and sorrow across India. At just 23 years old, Lt Kalia had shown exemplary bravery, being the first to alert Indian forces to the scale of the enemy infiltration.

The Kargil War may have ended in 1999, but the legacy of these bravehearts lives on. Their courage under fire, unshakable will, and love for the nation embody the very best of India. On Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025, we salute these warriors of the Indian Armed Forces who defend our freedom with unmatched bravery.

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