What I know and can say about the Sikhs is that they are an unparallel race on this earth. Sikhs are the most brave and bold people, full of pride and self-esteem, most warm and kind hearted of all, uniquely handsome with their attire, well built; all this makes them unique. The self-esteem and pride is unmatched – you will never find a Sikh beggar on roads. They are the best when you request them for a photograph, no questions asked from photographers and ever-willing to be photographed with smile on their face.

The Sikh soldiers enjoy very special place in the Indian army, they are known as the `THE BRAVEST OF BRAVE’ and have the highest gallantry awards to their honour, won in all the battle field. The stories of Sikh gallantry are unmatched in the world. Though, I did not serve with Sikh troops, but had close interaction with them in Sri Lanka, where I served as an IPKF member for 18 months. They were bold like no one ! Their military history is full of unmatched valour and grit.  Their contribution to the British Empire, as soldiers is very much appreciated by the British, even today.

They are traditionally generous to travellers and there is no bar to caste and creed or religion, when it comes to hosting a traveller. Though, materialism and modern `rat race’ have taken its toll of that unique feature of Sikhs to great extent in modern times. If one is travelling and finds a Gurudwara (Sikh temple), and one needs shelter and food even at odd hours, just walk in and you will be welcome to be their guest. I have never enjoyed photographing any other place as much as I have at the Golden Temple; its open 24 hours, no restrictions, free kitchen, cleanliness of the highest grade, water, bathrooms, rooms to stay, etc. Since, Sikhs are very prone to political interference in their religious places as well. Most political parties reach the people of Punjab via religion and have political offices in Gurudwaras.  Off late, when I went to Golden Temple, I was shocked to face the irrational restriction for the use of tripods in Golden Temple, which is really sad.

Sikhs are workaholic, this trait has made them the most successful farmers in India and have proved it even overseas. They believe in this philosophy `work like a horse and enjoy like a king’. Also, they have acumen as transporters and they dominate transport business all over the country, they are leaders in the automobile spare-parts business as well. They are bold to explore any place on earth to make wealth.

The biggest worry of the custodians of this religion is that young generations are diluting the values which were well guarded for centuries. The menace of drugs is engulfing the health of youth in Punjab, which is affecting Sikhs as well. It has lead the youth to be casual towards values and respect for the teachings of their Gurus.

They are very interesting people to know, till you do not get on to their wrong side !!!

DISCLAIMER : This post is NOT to promote or support any religion. Sikhs are like any other subject to me, as a photographer. I have not written anything about religion here, so NO controversies please. These are my own views. Do not try to dig things out of a mole hill. All religions are respect worthy. My religion is ONLY to be a `good human-being’.

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I am proud to be a Gunner !

A TRIBUTE TO THE SOLDIERS

WHO MADE SUPREME SACRIFICE FOR THEIR MOTHERLAND INDIA

Indian Army is the second largest army in terms of military personnel (after China) in the world. It is a completely voluntary service, the military draft having never been imposed in India. The army has rich combat experience in diverse terrains, due to India’s diverse geography, and also has a distinguished history.

In spite of its large geographical size and diverse regional cultures, India is the best example of `unity in diversity’. India being a nation of variety of cultures and religions, has soldiers who have variety of rich traditions with completely different life styles. This makes the Indian army a splendid subject for a photographer; Indian army is rich with traditions and customs. The different types of uniforms have different decorative pieces of dress and have many colours, a photographers’ delight in real. The unwritten traditions and customs of the Indian army are the pivot of it and keep it united.

Eversince, I was about 5 years old, got fascinated by the Indian army, while I was growing under the watchful eyes of my father, who has been my teacher and trainer as well. While going to school or evening/ morning walks, he always narrated me the stories of valour and bravery of the Indian soldiers. He is the one who inculcated in me patriotism and `spirit to explore life’. He always emphasised to make us good human beings first and serve the nation and life on earth.

In 1981, I cleared my entrance test for the Combined Defense Services, but could not convince the Service Selection Board (SSB) that I am also a suitable candidate for the Indian army. On being declined, I was in tears, shattered as I always dreamed myself in the Indian army officer’s uniform, but did not give up my pursuit for the much cherished uniform. I was so fascinated by the Indian army and its uniform, I decided not to join any other job, except joining the Indian Army. Finally, in October 1983, I reported at the Officers Training School, Madras (now Officers Training Academy, Chennai). After a grueling training in the hostile climatic conditions of Tamil Nadu, on the 25th August, I was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant (2nd Lt) into the Indian army’s Regiment of Artillery, the 93 Field Regiment. I am proud of being a Gunner.

But for some personal reasons and the lure of the `call from the wild’, adventure, photography, travel, etc. I decided to hang my boots very early and I bid the Indian Army adieu, in a tearful separation from my beloved uniform. I always loved my uniform the most, more than my religion!

I left the Indian Army  with a very heavy heart and it was a tearful parting, I left behind my heart with the Indian Army, which I could never get back – I am still a soldier, always a soldier. I never wanted to leave my First Love, but then I had to take a decision myself to decline my permanent commission (PC). In spite of the fact that I had a very bad time with my two commanding officers in the first regiment, as I always called `a spade as a spade’ and they did not like this approach (probably, as a soldier I should only follow orders), I still love the Indian Army the most. The Indian Army is a great institution, much adored and revered by the true soldiers, all the time. As we all say `only good or bad officers make the Indian Army good or bad’.

I always make it a point that I am with my great regiments for their `raising days’ or even if I  am passing by, which could be within a day’s journey and will stop by for sure. It’s nostalgia which keeps good soldiers all together.

I have always dreamt of projecting the great Indian Army in photographs and make my countrymen proud of this great institution, which is so unique and India is so proud of.

Here, I will try to showcase the Indian Army through images, hope you enjoy and be proud of it.

“When You Go Home, Tell Them Of Us And Say,
For Their Tomorrow, We Gave Our Today”

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