The Legacy of Ranchhor Das 'Paagi': A Tribute from Sam Manekshaw
Remembering Ranchhor Das 'Paagi'
Ranchhor Das 'Paagi' is a name that resonates with the memories of Sam Manekshaw, the former Chief of the Indian Army, especially in his final moments.
Few in India are unaware of Sam Manekshaw, who led the Indian Army to victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war, playing a crucial role in the creation of Bangladesh. He was also a participant in World War II in 1942. Interestingly, his full name was 'Hormuzji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw', but due to his bravery, he was affectionately known as 'Sam Bahadur' from a young age.
A Distinguished General
Sam Manekshaw was the first Indian Army General to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal, a testament to his courage and valor. Born on April 3, 1914, in Amritsar, he has numerous fascinating stories associated with him. One notable incident involved Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who questioned him about the war with Pakistan. Throughout the conversation, Manekshaw referred to her as 'Prime Minister' instead of 'Madam', explaining later that 'Madam' was a term reserved for a specific class.
Heroic Tales of Ranchhor Das 'Paagi'
Many stories surround Manekshaw, including one from 1942 during World War II when he was shot seven times by a Japanese soldier. Had it not been for a comrade who carried him to safety, he might not have survived.
If a person of such stature remembers Ranchhor Das 'Paagi' in his last days, it prompts curiosity about who 'Paagi' was and why he held such significance for Manekshaw.
The Skills of Ranchhor Das 'Paagi'
Ranchhor Das 'Paagi' was born into a humble family in Gujarat, near the Pakistan border. His family raised sheep, goats, and camels, and he spent his youth in this environment. At around 58 years old, when most people retire, 'Paagi' was appointed as a police guide by the Superintendent of Police, Vanraj Singh Jhala, due to his unique skills. He could determine the number of riders on a camel just by examining its footprints and could estimate the weight and age of humans based on their tracks.
His remarkable talent led him to join the Indian Army as a scout. Just before the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the Pakistani army had occupied several villages in the Kutch region, and 'Paagi' was tasked with locating the enemy.
A Mission Accomplished
He successfully identified around 1,200 hidden Pakistani soldiers in the dark of the jungle, enabling the Indian Army to reach their destination 12 hours ahead of schedule. Manekshaw personally selected 'Paagi' for this mission and even created a special rank for him in the army, which meant a guide capable of reading footprints and navigating through deserts.
Following the 1965 war, 'Paagi' played a significant role in the 1971 conflict, assisting in logistics and ammunition supply. His contributions were pivotal in the victory at 'Palinagar', where the Indian flag was raised. After this success, Manekshaw rewarded him with a cash prize of 300 rupees from his own pocket, along with several medals for his service.
The Final Years of Ranchhor Das 'Paagi'
Ranchhor Das 'Paagi' retired from the army in 2009 at the age of 108, passing away at 112 in 2013.
In a historic move, a border has been named after him, the 'Ranchhor Das Paagi' border near the Kutch Banaskantha area, complete with a statue in his honor. Folk singers have also celebrated his legacy, though it seems the younger generation has largely forgotten such a revolutionary figure. This is the story of a 'Paagi' who was remembered by a military chief until his last breath.