A Tale of Valour Class 8 NCERT English Poorvi | Summary, Theme, Textual Analysis & Question Answers
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Also Read: Somebody's Mother Summary Analysis Question Answers
Summary Of "A Tale of Valour"
The chapter pays tribute to Major Somnath Sharma, India's first Param Vir Chakra recipient, whose extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice safeguarded the Kashmir Valley during the Indo–Pakistan War of 1947–48. It recounts the historic Battle of Badgam, where Major Sharma and his company of only 90 soldiers bravely defended the Srinagar airport against nearly 500 Pakistani-backed tribal invaders.
After Pakistan launched Operation Gulmarg to capture Kashmir, Indian troops were airlifted to Srinagar to protect the region. Although Major Somnath Sharma had his left arm in a plaster cast, he insisted on leading his men into battle, declaring that he would never let them fight without him. On 3 November 1947, his company was assigned to patrol the village of Badgam. Soon, they were attacked by a much larger enemy force. Realising the importance of holding the position until reinforcements arrived, Major Sharma requested air support and personally guided the aircraft by laying out ground panels.
Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing severe enemy fire, Major Sharma continued to encourage his soldiers, direct the battle, and even load ammunition for the machine gunners. When ordered to retreat due to the shortage of ammunition, he courageously refused, saying that he would "fight to the last man and the last round." Moments later, he was killed by a mortar shell while assisting his men.
Inspired by their leader's courage, the soldiers of D Company continued fighting for several more hours, delaying the enemy long enough for Indian reinforcements to arrive. Their heroic stand saved Srinagar from falling into enemy hands and played a decisive role in protecting the Kashmir Valley.
The chapter also highlights Major Somnath Sharma's early life. Born into a family with a proud military tradition, he was inspired by stories from the Mahabharata and received military training at prestigious institutions. His bravery in World War II and his unwavering devotion to duty prepared him for the ultimate sacrifice. At the age of only 24, he laid down his life for the nation and was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra. His story continues to inspire generations with its message of patriotism, courage, leadership, and selfless service.
Theme Explanation
1. Patriotism and Love for the Nation
The central theme of the chapter is unwavering patriotism. Major Somnath Sharma places the nation's security above his own life and personal safety. Despite being injured, he willingly leads his company into battle and sacrifices his life to protect India's sovereignty. His devotion reminds readers that true patriotism demands courage, commitment, and selfless service.
2. Courage and Supreme Sacrifice
The chapter celebrates exceptional bravery in the face of overwhelming odds. Major Sharma and his 90 soldiers fight fearlessly against nearly 500 enemy invaders. Refusing to retreat despite severe injuries and limited ammunition, he inspires his men to continue fighting until reinforcements arrive. His ultimate sacrifice becomes a shining example of heroism and dedication to duty.
3. Leadership and Duty
Major Somnath Sharma demonstrates outstanding leadership by choosing to remain with his soldiers even though his arm is in a plaster cast. Throughout the battle, he motivates his men, directs military operations, and personally assists them despite the danger. His actions show that a true leader leads from the front, accepts responsibility, and never abandons those under his command.
4. Inspiration for Future Generations
Major Somnath Sharma's life and sacrifice continue to inspire soldiers and citizens across India. His bravery is honoured through the Param Vir Chakra, the National War Memorial, patriotic songs, books, and stories of valour. The chapter reminds readers that the freedom and security of the nation have been achieved through the sacrifices of countless brave men and women, encouraging every generation to uphold the values of courage, duty, and national service.
Textual Analysis
Text
Mera desh, mera desh re
Mera desh hua re roshan,
le qurban kiya tujh hee pe ye tan man…
This is a tribute to the valiant Major Somnath Sharma, India’s first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, whose name is etched in the annals of history. His bravery and sacrifice stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations. At every intersection of patriotism—whether through the National War Memorial, soul stirring patriotic songs, books, and stories recounting acts of valour, or the celebrations of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav— his memory is honoured. Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive… reminding us of the ultimate price paid for our freedom.
Word Meaning
- Tribute - An expression of respect and admiration
- Valiant - Brave and courageous
- Etched - Permanently recorded
- Legacy - Something valuable passed on to future generations
Explanation
The chapter opens with patriotic song lyrics expressing love for the nation and the willingness to sacrifice everything for it. The author introduces Major Somnath Sharma, India's first Param Vir Chakra awardee, as one of the nation's greatest heroes. His extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice continue to inspire every generation. His memory is honoured through the National War Memorial, patriotic songs, books, and national celebrations such as Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. The introduction reminds readers that India's freedom and security have been protected through the sacrifices of brave soldiers like Major Somnath Sharma.
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The serene Kashmir valley in the shadows of the majestic Himalayas witnessed a tale of extraordinary heroism and sacrifice to protect the integrity of Indian borders. The day began with the silence of a cold November dawn but ended with echoes of courage that served as an inspiration for generations to come.
This is the story of Major Somnath Sharma and the brave men that he led on a mission to protect the Srinagar airport from falling into the hands of a guerrilla force trained and backed by Pakistan. This is a story of how 90 men managed to foil the plan of some 500 infiltrators who wanted to capture Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley and deliver a blow to newly-independent India.
Word Meaning
- Serene - Calm and peaceful
- Integrity - Unity and territorial wholeness
- Guerrilla force - Irregular armed fighters using surprise attacks
- Foil - Prevent or defeat a plan
- Infiltrators - People who secretly enter an area with harmful intentions
Explanation
The author describes the peaceful beauty of the Kashmir Valley, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, which soon became the setting for one of India's greatest stories of courage and sacrifice. On a cold November morning, Major Somnath Sharma and his soldiers undertook the crucial mission of defending the Srinagar airport from Pakistani-backed guerrilla invaders. The chapter highlights the extraordinary bravery of 90 Indian soldiers, who courageously resisted nearly 500 infiltrators determined to capture Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley. Their fearless stand prevented the enemy from succeeding and protected the sovereignty of newly independent India. This battle remains an inspiring example of patriotism, determination, and selfless service.
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The events that led to the Battle of Badgam started in August 1947, when Pakistan launched Operation Gulmarg to annex the Kashmir Valley. This was in violation of an existing agreement with Hari Singh, the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, who had committed Pakistan not to attack the state.
However, instead of honouring the commitment, the Pakistani Army trained and equipped around 1000 invaders who possessed deep knowledge of mountain passes and the local terrain to enter Kashmir and take control of strategic locations, including the Srinagar airport. The ultimate goal of their plan was to engineer a revolt in Kashmir, overthrow the government, and capture the territory. If they had succeeded, it would have allowed them to control strategic mountain passes, peaks, and rivers. On 22 October, Operation Gulmarg was launched and these infiltrators invaded Kashmir, which led to the Princely State becoming a part of India on 26 October 1947.
Word Meaning
- Annex - To take control of another territory and make it part of a country
- Equipped - Supplied with necessary weapons or resources
- Invaders - People who enter another country by force
- Mountain passes - Narrow routes through mountains
- Terrain - The physical features of an area of land
- Engineer (a revolt) - To secretly plan or organise
- Princely State - A semi-independent kingdom ruled by a local monarch before India's independence
Explanation
This section explains the historical background of the Battle of Badgam. In August 1947, Pakistan planned Operation Gulmarg to capture the Kashmir Valley, violating its agreement with Maharaja Hari Singh. Instead of keeping its promise, Pakistan trained and armed around 1,000 invaders, who secretly entered Kashmir through mountain routes with the aim of capturing important locations, especially the Srinagar airport. Their larger objective was to create unrest, overthrow the government, and seize control of the region. The invasion began on 22 October 1947, forcing the Maharaja to accede to India on 26 October 1947. This marked the beginning of India's military efforts to defend Kashmir and ultimately led to the historic Battle of Badgam, where Major Somnath Sharma displayed extraordinary courage.
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In response to this invasion, the Government of India sent its troops to defend the people of Kashmir and India’s borders on 27 October 1947. A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar because the land route through Pathankot was not in a good condition.
On 31 October, the D Company of the 4th Battalion of Kumaon Regiment, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was also flown into Srinagar. At that time, Major Somnath Sharma’s left hand was in plaster, but he insisted on being with his company while in combat. He knew that this mission would be very challenging and told his senior officers, “I know my men better than anyone else, and if they are going into action, they are not going in without me.” These words highlighted his commitment to his men and his country.
Word Meaning
- Invasion - An attack by armed forces entering another country
- Troops - Groups of soldiers
- Contingent - A group of soldiers sent for a particular mission
- Airlifted - Transported by aircraft
- Battalion - A large military unit consisting of several companies
- Regiment - A permanent military unit of the army
- Combat - Fighting in a war or battle
Explanation
After Pakistan-backed forces invaded Kashmir, the Government of India quickly sent troops on 27 October 1947 to protect the people of Kashmir and defend India's borders. Since the road through Pathankot was unsuitable for rapid movement, soldiers were airlifted to Srinagar. A few days later, on 31 October, D Company of the 4th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Somnath Sharma, also reached Srinagar.
Although Major Somnath Sharma's left hand was in plaster, he refused to stay behind. He firmly believed that a commander should lead his men in battle and declared that they would not go into action without him. His determination, courage, and deep sense of responsibility towards both his soldiers and his country reveal his exceptional leadership and unwavering devotion to duty.
Text
Before their arrival in Srinagar, there had been unfounded rumours of tribal movement towards the village of Badgam, less than 5 kilometres away from the Srinagar airport. The village was on a higher altitude than the airfield, and access was through the village. Hence, it was important for Indian forces to retain control of the area in order to protect troops and facilitate supplies arriving via air.
In reality, the enemy had started arriving in Badgam in small groups to avoid detection. On 03 November 1947, several companies, including Major Somnath Sharma’s D Company, were sent to patrol and assess emerging threats in and around the village. Throughout the day, the valley was eerily silent. Around afternoon, the companies were ordered to return one by one. D company with 90 soldiers was the last, and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m.
Word Meaning
- Unfounded - Without proof or evidence
- Rumours - Unconfirmed reports or stories
- Tribal movement - Movement of armed tribal groups
- Retain - To keep or maintain control
- Detection - The act of being discovered
- Emerging threats - New or developing dangers
- Eerily - In a strange and frighteningly quiet manner
Explanation
Before Major Somnath Sharma's company reached Srinagar, reports suggested that tribal fighters were moving towards Badgam, a strategically important village located less than five kilometres from the Srinagar airport. Since Badgam was situated at a higher altitude and controlled the route to the airport, it was essential for the Indian Army to secure the village and ensure the safe arrival of troops and supplies by air.
Meanwhile, the enemy secretly entered Badgam in small groups to avoid being noticed. On 3 November 1947, several Indian Army companies, including Major Somnath Sharma's D Company, were sent to patrol the area and evaluate possible threats. Although everything appeared unusually quiet throughout the day, the silence concealed the enemy's presence. As other companies were ordered to return, D Company, consisting of 90 soldiers, remained behind as the last unit, unknowingly preparing to face a massive enemy attack. This section builds suspense and highlights the strategic importance of Badgam before the historic battle began.
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When the enemy (tribal guerrilla invaders), under the command of the Pakistani army, saw that only a small group of Indian soldiers were left behind in Badgam, they attacked them. Their initial attack was met with stiff resistance by Major Somnath and his men. However, Major Somnath correctly visualised that the first attack was just a distraction. Shortly thereafter, a major attack came from another side. By then, Major Somnath Sharma and his 90 soldiers were facing about 500 invaders.
The Pakistani invaders sought to capture the Srinagar airfield and its surrounding areas. It was clear to Major Somnath Sharma that defending Srinagar town, the airfield, and the wider valley was indeed difficult until reinforcements arrived.
Word Meaning
- Guerrilla - A fighter who uses surprise attacks rather than regular warfare
- Stiff resistance - Strong and determined opposition
- Reinforcements - Additional soldiers sent to help in battle
- Wider valley - The larger area of the Kashmir Valley
Explanation
The silence at Badgam was suddenly broken when the Pakistani-backed tribal guerrilla invaders launched an attack on Major Somnath Sharma's D Company. Since only a small group of Indian soldiers remained in the village, the enemy believed they could easily overpower them. However, Major Somnath Sharma and his men fought back with great courage and determination, successfully resisting the first assault.
Major Somnath quickly realised that the initial attack was only a diversion designed to distract his soldiers. As he had anticipated, a much larger attack soon came from another direction. His company of 90 soldiers found itself facing nearly 500 enemy invaders. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Major Somnath understood that protecting the Srinagar airfield was crucial because it was the only route through which reinforcements and military supplies could reach Kashmir. Therefore, he decided to hold his position and defend the area until additional Indian troops arrived. His calm judgment, strategic thinking, and fearless leadership became the turning point of the Battle of Badgam.
Text
After assessing the situation, he requested air strikes. He bravely laid out ground panels to guide the aircraft towards their target. The aerial attacks were successful in hitting the tribal invaders, but they still outnumbered D Company by almost seven to one, the attack on the positions occupied by Major Somnath’s men continued.
Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma’s voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour.
Word Meaning
- Assessing - Carefully examining or evaluating
- Ground panels - Markers placed on the ground to guide aircraft
- Aerial - Related to aircraft or the air
- Outnumbered - Having fewer people than the enemy
- Tenacity - Great determination and persistence
- Directing fire - Guiding soldiers where to shoot
- Hold their ground - Continue defending a position without retreating
Explanation
After carefully assessing the battlefield, Major Somnath Sharma realised that his company urgently needed support. He requested air strikes and courageously laid out ground panels to guide Indian aircraft to the enemy's position. The aerial attacks inflicted heavy damage on the tribal invaders, but the enemy still greatly outnumbered D Company by nearly seven to one and continued their fierce assault.
Although the situation became increasingly dangerous, Major Somnath Sharma and his soldiers remained resolute. Amid the deafening sounds of gunfire and explosions, he continuously inspired his men with words of courage, urging them to fight with determination and bravery. Even after being injured and witnessing many of his comrades become casualties, he refused to stop leading. He fearlessly moved across the battlefield, directing fire, supplying ammunition to machine gunners, and motivating his soldiers to hold their position. This passage highlights his exceptional leadership, selfless courage, and unwavering dedication to the defence of the nation.
Text
Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.
However, as the battle progressed, D Company began running out of ammunition. When Major Somnath Sharma informed Brigade headquarters about this, he was asked to pull back. Aware of the gravity of the situation, he responded with the words, “The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round”.
Word Meaning
- Casualties - Soldiers who are killed or injured in battle
- Unparalleled - Unequalled; without comparison
- Ammunition - Bullets, shells, and other supplies for weapons
- Gravity - Seriousness of a situation
- Heavily outnumbered - Facing an enemy much larger in number
- Last man and the last round - To continue fighting until every soldier and every bullet is exhausted
Explanation
Although Major Somnath Sharma was injured and many of his soldiers had become casualties, he continued to lead his company with exceptional courage. Ignoring his own safety, he moved fearlessly across the battlefield, directing his soldiers, supplying ammunition to the machine gunners, and constantly encouraging them to defend their position. His actions reflected outstanding leadership and selfless devotion to duty.
As the battle continued, D Company began to run out of ammunition. Major Somnath Sharma informed the Brigade Headquarters about the critical situation and was ordered to retreat. However, he fully understood the importance of defending the Srinagar airfield. Refusing to abandon his position, he declared, "I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round." These famous words reveal his unwavering patriotism, determination, and willingness to sacrifice his life for the nation. His courage inspired his soldiers to continue fighting despite overwhelming odds, making him one of India's greatest military heroes.
Text
Just a few minutes later, when he was crouched in a trench next to a machine gun operator, in order to help him load the gun, his position was hit by a mortar shell, killing him instantly.
Despite losing their Major and faced with the overwhelming numerical superiority of the enemy, the heroic actions of late Major Somnath Sharma motivated his men to hold on to their position for over six more hours before being overrun by the enemy.
Their brave resistance provided time for reinforcements to arrive, including flying in soldiers from the Punjab regiment to Srinagar. The heroic deeds of Major Somnath and his men thoroughly demotivated the enemy, causing more than 300 casualties, including injuring their leader.
Word Meaning
- Crouched - Bent down low while keeping close to the ground
- Trench - A long, narrow ditch dug for soldiers' protection during battle
- Machine gun operator - A soldier who operates a machine gun
- Mortar shell - An explosive projectile fired from a mortar
- Numerical superiority - Having a much larger number of soldiers than the opponent
- Overrun - Defeated or overwhelmed by a stronger attacking force
- Resistance - The act of fighting against an enemy
Explanation
While helping a machine gun operator load ammunition from inside a trench, Major Somnath Sharma was struck by a mortar shell and was killed instantly. Even in his final moments, he remained committed to supporting his men and defending the nation. His death was a great loss to the Indian Army, but his courage became a source of inspiration for his soldiers.
Despite losing their commanding officer and facing an enemy with overwhelming numerical superiority, the soldiers of D Company did not lose heart. Inspired by Major Somnath Sharma's fearless leadership, they continued fighting for more than six hours before finally being overrun. Their determined resistance delayed the enemy's advance and gave the Indian Army enough time to send reinforcements, including soldiers from the Punjab Regiment, to Srinagar.
The bravery and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma and his men inflicted more than 300 casualties on the enemy and even injured their leader. Their heroic stand played a crucial role in protecting the Srinagar airfield and saving the Kashmir Valley from falling into enemy hands. This passage highlights the values of supreme sacrifice, unwavering patriotism, courageous leadership, perseverance, and devotion to duty, making Major Somnath Sharma an everlasting symbol of heroism in Indian military history.
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In many significant ways, D Company’s sacrifice and Major Somnath’s leadership saved Srinagar for India. The 4 KUMAON battalion was awarded the Battle Honour, Srinagar. Major Somnath laid down his life for the nation at the young age of 24. For this act of conspicuous bravery, Major Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC). His citation reflects his heroism, patriotism, and courage. He was the first recipient of the PVC, awarded posthumously for gallantry and supreme sacrifice.
We have delved into how the events of 03 November 1947, played out. It is also worth knowing more about the early life of Major Somnath and the events that led him to make the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.
Word Meaning
- Battalion - A large military unit made up of several companies
- Battle Honour - An official military award given for outstanding performance in battle
- Laid down his life - Sacrificed his life
- Conspicuous - Clearly noticeable; outstanding
- Posthumously - Awarded after a person's death
- Gallantry - Fearless courage in battle
Explanation
The sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma and the brave soldiers of D Company played a decisive role in saving Srinagar from enemy capture. Their courageous stand delayed the invading forces long enough for Indian reinforcements to arrive and secure the region. In recognition of this remarkable achievement, the 4 Kumaon Battalion was awarded the prestigious Battle Honour, Srinagar.
Major Somnath Sharma made the supreme sacrifice for his country at the young age of 24. His exceptional courage, outstanding leadership, and unwavering patriotism earned him the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest wartime gallantry award. He became the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, receiving the honour posthumously. His official citation praises his extraordinary heroism, fearless leadership, and devotion to duty.
The passage then shifts from the Battle of Badgam to introduce the next part of the chapter, which explores Major Somnath Sharma's early life. It prepares readers to understand how his upbringing, military training, and strong values shaped him into one of India's greatest war heroes, whose sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
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Born on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction. Young Somnath was also deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather.
From his early education at Sherwood College, Nainital, to his rigorous training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Major Somnath Sharma’s life was a testament to discipline and dedication. Commissioned into the 8th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942, he served with distinction during World War II in the Arakan Campaign in Burma, earning mentions in despatches for his bravery. However, it was during the Indo–Pakistan War of 1947–1948, particulary in the battle of Badgam, that the legacy of Major Somnath Sharma was truly forged.
Word Meaning
- Picturesque - Beautiful and attractive
- Military legacy - A family tradition of serving in the armed forces
- Rigorous - Very strict, thorough, and demanding
- Despatches - Official military reports
- Legacy - A lasting contribution or achievement remembered by future generations
Explanation
This passage describes the early life and military background of Major Somnath Sharma, showing how his upbringing prepared him to become one of India's greatest war heroes. Born on 31 January 1923 in the beautiful town of Dadh, Kangra (Himachal Pradesh), he belonged to a family with a proud military tradition. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, served the nation with honour, while his grandfather inspired young Somnath by narrating the brave stories of the Mahabharata, which instilled in him the values of courage, duty, and patriotism.
Major Somnath Sharma received his early education at Sherwood College, Nainital, and later underwent rigorous military training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. His disciplined training and unwavering dedication shaped him into an outstanding army officer. In 1942, he was commissioned into the 8th Battalion of the 19th Hyderabad Regiment and served with distinction in the Arakan Campaign during World War II, where his bravery earned him official recognition in military despatches. However, it was his extraordinary leadership and supreme sacrifice during the Battle of Badgam in the Indo–Pakistan War of 1947–48 that immortalised his name in Indian military history and established his enduring legacy as India's first Param Vir Chakra awardee.
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The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism. He has been a source of inspiration for soldiers and citizens alike. Most importantly, his story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in defence of the motherland and highlights the profound sense of duty that inspired them.
In the quiet of the Kashmir Valley, where the echoes of D Company’s battle with infiltrators have long since faded, the story of Major Somnath Sharma remains a beacon of courage and sacrifice. His valour ensured that the tricolour would continue to fly over Srinagar, and his name is forever etched in the golden pages of India’s military history. The life and legacy of Major Somnath Sharma stands as a poignant reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who fought to protect it. His story, marked by selflessness and bravery, will continue to inspire and guide generations to come, ensuring that his sacrifice is never to be forgotten. His name is etched on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.
Word Meaning
- Embody - To represent or express something fully
- Profound - Deep and strongly felt
- Poignant - Deeply touching and emotionally moving
- National War Memorial - India's national monument honouring soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation
Explanation
The concluding passage honours Major Somnath Sharma as a true embodiment of duty, honour, courage, and patriotism. His extraordinary sacrifice continues to inspire not only soldiers but also every citizen of India. The author reminds readers that the nation's freedom and security have been safeguarded through the sacrifices of countless brave men and women who placed their duty above their own lives.
Although the sounds of the Battle of Badgam have long faded from the Kashmir Valley, Major Somnath Sharma's bravery remains alive in the hearts of the people. His fearless leadership ensured that the Indian Tricolour continued to fly proudly over Srinagar, protecting the unity and sovereignty of the nation. His heroic deeds have earned him a permanent place in the golden pages of India's military history, and his name is engraved on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.
The passage concludes by emphasizing that Major Somnath Sharma's life is a timeless example of selfless service, unwavering courage, and supreme sacrifice. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to serve the nation with dedication, reminding everyone that the freedom enjoyed today has been secured through the bravery and sacrifices of heroes like him.
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Let us salute this braveheart.
Vande Mataram, vande mataraṁ
Sujalam suphalam malayaja shitalam,
Shasya shyamalam ṃataram!
Jai Hind
Word Meaning
- Vande Mataram - "I bow to thee, Mother"; a patriotic song dedicated to Mother India
- Sujalam - Rich in water
- Suphalam - Rich in fruits and prosperity
- Malayaja - Fragrant sandalwood breeze from the Malaya hills
- Shitalam - Cool and refreshing
- Shasya - Crops or harvest
- Shyamalam - Green and fertile
Explanation
The chapter concludes with a heartfelt tribute to Major Somnath Sharma, inviting readers to salute the brave soldier who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The patriotic song "Vande Mataram", composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, praises Mother India as a land blessed with abundant water, fertile fields, fruits, and cool, refreshing breezes. The song expresses deep love, respect, and gratitude towards the motherland.
Ending the chapter with "Vande Mataram" and "Jai Hind" strengthens the message of patriotism, national pride, and remembrance. It reminds readers that the peace, freedom, and unity of India have been preserved through the courage and sacrifices of heroes like Major Somnath Sharma. The concluding lines inspire every citizen to honour these brave soldiers and remain devoted to the nation with the same spirit of courage, duty, and selfless service.
Textual Question Answers
Let us discuss
Answer: Correct Order:
- Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. (Given)
- Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
- Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
- The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.
- Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.
- Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.
- Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.
- Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. (Given)
Let us think and reflect
1. Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma’s voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour.
(i)
What can be inferred about the conditions from the line: ‘The air
was thick with gunfire...’
A. The gunshots had stopped for a while.
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
C. The invaders were retreating from the fight.
D. The Indian soldiers had achieved victory.
Answer: B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
Answer: Despite heavy casualties, Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men because he was deeply committed to protecting the nation and inspiring his soldiers to fight courageously until the end.
Answer: A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
Answer: Major Somnath Sharma was filling magazines, and encouraging his men to hold their ground despite injuries.
Answer: C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty
Answer: False
Answer: It means that he performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence and earned great respect for his service to the nation.
My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but visually charming house surrounded by trees.
Answer: Picturesque
II Answer the following questions.
Answer: The repetition of the words "forever alive" emphasizes that Major Somnath Sharma's bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism will never be forgotten. It highlights that his inspiring legacy will continue to motivate future generations of soldiers and citizens to serve the nation with courage and dedication.
Answer: Major Somnath Sharma's leadership was crucial because he remained calm, fearless, and determined despite being heavily outnumbered and injured. He inspired his soldiers by directing the battle, filling magazines, and encouraging them to fight bravely. His leadership prevented the enemy from capturing Srinagar and gave the Indian Army enough time to send reinforcements.
Answer: Major Somnath Sharma's last words were:
"The enemy are only fifty yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round."
These words reflect his extraordinary courage, patriotism, unwavering determination, and complete devotion to his duty. They show that he valued the safety of the nation above his own life
Answer: If Major Somnath Sharma and his company had not defended their position, the enemy could have captured Srinagar and its strategically important airport. This would have severely affected India's defence in Jammu and Kashmir. Their brave resistance delayed the enemy's advance and enabled reinforcements to arrive, ultimately helping India secure the region.
Answer: Major Somnath Sharma's story inspires both soldiers and civilians because it demonstrates the highest ideals of courage, patriotism, self-sacrifice, and leadership. His willingness to fight despite serious injuries reminds everyone that true heroes put the nation and the welfare of others before themselves. His life encourages people to remain dedicated, fearless, and responsible in every situation
Answer: We can apply Major Somnath Sharma's values by facing challenges with courage, performing our responsibilities honestly, and helping others without expecting rewards. Students can show courage by standing up for what is right, fulfil their duties by studying sincerely and respecting rules, and practise self-sacrifice by supporting classmates, family members, and society. These values help build responsible citizens and strengthen the nation.
