Brigadier Maharaja Bhawani Singh

Brigadier Maharaja Sawai Bhawani Singh Ji, MVC, was born to Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II and Marudhar Kanwar of Jodhpur. He hailed from the royal family of Jaipur. Bhawani Singh received a permanent commission in the Indian Army in 1957.

Military Career

In 1967, Bhawani Singh served as the second-in-command of the 10th Parachute Regiment, one of India’s elite Special Forces battalions, and became the Commanding Officer (CO) in 1968.

In 1970, prior to the commencement of the Bangladesh Liberation War, he played a key role in training the Mukti Bahini. During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Bhawani Singh, then an acting lieutenant-colonel, led the Para Commandos of the 10th Parachute Regiment.

Battle Actions: 1971 War

On the night of 5 December 1971, Lt. Colonel Bhawani Singh led his commandos deep into enemy territory. For four days and nights, he conducted relentless raids on heavily fortified enemy posts at Chachro and Virawah. Despite harsh conditions and personal risk, he showed inspired leadership and extraordinary courage, resulting in the capture of large areas, creation of panic among enemy ranks, and the seizure of prisoners and equipment.

His gallantry in this operation earned him the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC).

Post-War and Retirement

In 1973, Bhawani Singh was promoted to the substantive rank of lieutenant-colonel. He took early retirement in 1975 from the Indian Army.

During Operation Pawan, when the Indian Army was active in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi requested him to visit Sri Lanka and boost the morale of his former unit, 10 Para. His mission was successful.

In recognition of this, the President of India conferred upon him the honorary rank of Brigadier on 29 November 1991 — a rare distinction of being promoted post-retirement.

Death

Brigadier Bhawani Singh Ji passed away in 2011. His courage, leadership, and service continue to be remembered as an unparalleled example of bravery in Indian military history.