A UNIT FULFILLING A FATHER’S DUTY

On 21 February 2026 the daughter of Grenadier Bhagirath Karwasara, SC of 13 GRENADIERS (GJ) was married, a deeply emotional moment that came 26 years after his supreme sacrifice.

Grenadier Bhagirath Karwasara, SC was enrolled on 05 January 1995 into 13 GRENADIERS (GJ). In 2002 while deployed in Assam under Eastern Command during Op Rhino, he engaged heavily armed terrorists. On 08 June 2002 despite sustaining gunshot wounds to his chin and chest he continued fighting to safeguard his comrades and made the supreme sacrifice. For his exceptional gallantry and devotion to duty he was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra.

Though Grenadier Bhagirath Karwasara was not physically present at his daughter’s wedding, his battalion ensured that his presence was felt in every ceremony and every ritual. Col Somendra Kumar, Commanding Officer of the unit along with Col Suresh Chander Rana (Ex-CO) and 24 ranks of 13 GRENADIERS (GJ), attended the wedding to stand in for their fallen comrade and to uphold the sacred bond between the unit and the family of its martyr.

It began with a solemn Wreath Laying Parade in honour of Grenadier Bhagirath Karwasara where all ranks paid homage. His daughter performed tilak to all the ranks of the Unit, expressing the close knit relationship which still exists with the Unit. The daughter was presented a gift by the Commanding Officer on behalf of all ranks of the unit as a mark of collective affection and solidarity. A memento was also presented to her symbolising the enduring bond between the battalion and the family of Grenadier Bhagirath Karwasara. She was escorted to the stage by all ranks, symbolising collective guardianship and fatherly presence. The unit band ceremonially welcomed the groom and added military dignity to the occasion. The Commanding Officer and 24 ranks participated in the key rituals, and the Vidai was conducted by the unit fulfilling a father’s most emotional responsibility with honour and unity.

The presence of 13 GRENADIERS (GJ) transformed the occasion into more than a wedding, it became a powerful testament to regimental ethos, camaraderie, and unwavering commitment to a martyr’s family.

For in the Indian Army a soldier may fall in battle, but his family is forever embraced by the unit he served.