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From Legacy to Leadership: How Vijay Singh Shekhawat Elevated Vijay Udyog to New Heights

Devendra Khati |

Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion and this is what  Vijay Singh Shekhawat, Director Vijay Udyog Kitchen Equipment Pvt. Ltd. lives by. His career trajectory is a curious story. He joined his father Girvar Singh immediately after Graduation in 1998 and started his journey of aspirations on Hamara Bajaj. He was swift in his rides. Servicing customers on-site took a turn when he added his sense of utmost priority to Vijay Udyog’s clients.

 

Vijay Udyog was founded in 1987. Mr Girvar Singh carved a niche for Vijay Udyog as a manufacturer and supplier of quality Refrigeration and kitchen products. Vijay Singh Shekhawat predicted the growth potential of the Hospitality Equipment Industry and the entrepreneur in him took the rein. He started visiting Central and Northern India in search of new market space, armed with a high-performing range of commercial kitchen equipment and end-to-end display solutions. Bingo! A new innings of Vijay Udyog started. With late-night AutoCAD hours, Vijay Singh Shekhawat himself started designing & facility planning for trendy Hotels, Restaurants, Clubs, bars, cafes, and whatnot in the hospitality space. Vijay Udyog products became synonymous with matchless quality and cool aesthetics. He kept on learning the emerging trends across the board and offering the best product for the best value price.

 

Today the enterprise is in partnership with international brands like Taj, Marriott, Fairmont, Le Meridian, Hyatt,  Alila, Radisson, Four Points by Sheraton, and also has authorised dealerships with IFB, Rational, and Astoria & other international brands. All this has been possible due to the increased quality and efficiency under Vijay Singh Shekhawat’s guidance. The journey of Vijay Udyog from humble beginnings in 1987 to the India MSME Award 2021 and India CEO Award 2021 has been a textbook case study of solidarity, resilience, innovation, diligence, collaboration, the legacy of foundational values, and remarkably a passion shared by family. Virendra Singh, younger brother of Vijay Singh, also joined in 2014 and the company has scaled new heights under the trio of a seasoned businessman Father and two sons.

 

Vijay Singh believes entrepreneurship comes with its own bag of mixed rewards; the joy of adventure and the roller-coaster of new competition. To stem the tide of obsolescence needs continuous renewal of ideas and pursuit of new world order strategies. That is why Vijay is still a student. A look at his academics shows his undying spirit for learning. His academics go English Literature (M.A., 2001), Software Technology(2001), Air-Conditioning Technology(2002), MBA (2013), Strategic Management (IIM, CALCUTTA, 2013), GST consultant (2017), EXIM Mgt. Consultant (2019), General Business Mgt. (IIM, AHMEDABAD,2023) Doing academic programs while doing business comes at a price. Vijay has learnt to pay this price from his Mentor, his father, Girvar Singh Shekhawat.

Three Bravehearts martyred in Anantnag Terror Attack

Arsh Verma |

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed another terror attack, which claimed the lives of three army officials on Wednesday. On 13 September, Kashmir police posted about the encounter and informed about the injuries of the officers on Social Media platform ‘X’. Three officers including, Major Ashish Donack, Colonel Manpreet Singh who was the commanding officer of the 19th battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles, and, DSP Humayun Bhatt serving the J&K police surrendered to death during their treatment. 

 

The officers were involved in a gunfight against the terrorists in the Garol area of Anantnag district in the early morning of Wednesday. The death of another Jawan was also confirmed, but the information of the soldiers was not known. Many politicians expressed their condolences for the death of the Bravehearts. DGP Dilbag Singh sympathized with the demise of the brave officials of the police and army. He said every loss of life is tragic and claimed that the perpetrators of the offense would be brought to justice soon. “Terrible terrible news from J&K. An army colonel, a major, and a J&K Police DYSP gave the ultimate sacrifice in an encounter in the Kokernag area of South Kashmir today. DySP Humayan Bhat, Major Ashish Dhonack, and Colonel Manpreet Singh laid down their lives in an encounter with terrorists. May their souls rest in peace & may their loved ones find strength at this difficult time,” Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah showed his consolations.

 

The Resistance Front, a proxy group of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba has taken responsibility for the attack. The officers think that it is the same group of militants that invaded army personnel on August 4, which led to the death of three jawans in the Halan forest area.

 

President of the People’s Democratic Party, Mehbooba Mufti while presenting condolences to the grieving families said “There was no place for such acts of brutality.” People’s Conference leader Sajad Gani Lone also commiserated about the death of the Brave Soldiers.  Honoring the three martyred officers, BJP leader Altaf Thakur said the security forces are commissioned to uproot terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir.

 

Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘Guts’ World Tour: Dates, Special Initiatives, & All You Need to Know

Preyensha Srivastava |

Seeing Oliva Rodirigo tonight? It ain’t a bad idea, right? Well, well, well, Miss Olivia Rodrigo just released her new album ‘Guts’ and now she is all set to go on a world tour tour. The tour which is of 57 days and is produced by Live Nation will kick off on February 23, 2024, at the Acrisure Arena in Palm Springs, California. 

 

She is set to perform for her fans in North America until the end of April. Her itinerary includes two shows on April 5 and 6 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Afterwards, she will kick off her international tour on April 30 in Dublin, Ireland. The pop star will make a comeback to the United States with a performance in Philadelphia on July 19 and will conclude her global tour with two concerts at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on August 13 and 14.

 

Artists like The Breeders, PinkPantheress, Chappell Roan and Remi Wolf are scheduled to open on a few of the selected dates. If your city isn’t listed on the tour dates yet, don’t worry. Rodrigo hinted in her announcement caption that more dates will be announced soon! 

 

How to book tickets for the Guts World Tour? 

 

Other than that, fans are encouraged to register for tickets before September 17th at 10 p.m. ET on Ticketmaster.com to help prevent scalping. Once registration closes, randomly selected fans will receive access codes to purchase tickets on September 20th and 21st. American Express cardholders can also register for early access starting at 3 p.m. local time on September 20th through Ticketmaster’s website. Honestly, do this because you know the struggle Ticketmaster gives everyone!! DUH!! 

 

What will be the price of the Guts World Tour? 

 

Rodrigo is aiming to ensure her concert tickets are accessible to her fans. As per the press release, a new program called Silver Star will offer a limited quantity of tickets at a later date for $20 each (plus taxes and fees). These tickets must be purchased in pairs, with a maximum of two tickets per transaction. While the seats will be adjacent, fans won’t be informed of their exact location until they pick up the tickets on the concert day. These seats could be situated on the floor, on the lower and upper levels, or in sections with limited views.

 

Fund 4 Good Initiative 

 

Furthermore, the pop star is making a positive impact with her Guts World Tour. She is launching the Fund 4 Good initiative, which aims to “promote an equitable and just future for all women and girls by providing direct support to community-based non-profits that advocate for girls’ education, reproductive rights, and the prevention of gender-based violence,” as stated in the tour’s press release. A portion of the proceeds from all ticket sales will contribute to this initiative.

Asia Cup 2023: India advances to the Final of the Asia Cup for the 10th time

Arsh Verma |

In the 10th match of the 13-match-long tournament, the Indian cricket team emerged victorious against the host Sri Lanka. In a close tussle, India fought hard to set an average score of 213 because of a heroic half-century from the Indian Captain, and the hosts despite some good knocks from Dhananjaya de Silva and Dunith Wellalage, were unable to defeat India. 

 

India won the toss and batted first, India was on to a flying start. Rohit Sharma along with Shubman started attacking the bowlers from the very start. The captain looked in an excellent touch completing his half-century of 44 deliveries. At the score of 80, India lost its first wicket in the form of young Shubhman Gill. The previous match’s hero, Virat Kohli came out to bat with all eyes on him, he was expected to score big. Virat started his innings in traditional Kohli fashion, looking to find gaps and depending on running rather than scoring boundaries. 

 

The weakness of Indian batting against the left-arm bowlers was yet again exposed, as the left-arm spinner Wellalage trapped the Indian batters in his trap. Wellalage dismissed Kohli as the ball gripped on the surface, Kohli unable to flick gave a simple catch to the mid-wicket fielder. Wellalge then trapped KL, Rohit and Pandya. Other Indian batsmen fell prey to Charith Aslanka, who dismissed four batsmen, and Maheesh Theekshana with a single one. With the scorecard of the first innings, it was sure that the pitch had something to offer for the spinners as 38 out of the 50 overs were bowled by the spinners dismissing all 10 batsmen.

 

As the second innings started, the Lankan batting tumbled as the Indian pace battery dismissed the top-order for just 25 runs. Bumrah dismissed Pathum Nissanka off a 141 km/h beauty and deceived Kusal Mendis with a slower ball, who chipped the ball straight to Surya Kumar Yadav at covers. Unlike Bumrah, Siraj was more economical, he dismissed Dimuth Karunaratne in a proper test match fashion as Dimuth tried to cut the ball and gave a catch to Shubhman at first slip. The magical spell from the opening duo of the Indian bowling line-up brought Samarawickrama and Asalanka to the crease. 

 

The two new batters started their work to reconstruct the innings. As the track was a spin-friendly one, Rohit introduced the spin battery of the Indian bowling unit. Jadeja created an early chance as he almost dismissed Asalanka in his third over. While the two set batsmen were looking to attack the bowlers, the spinners were able to grip and spin the ball resulting in back-to-back wickets for the young Chinaman, Kuldeep Yadav. Joining the party, Jadeja got the captain’s wicket as Rohit took a screamer at slip. 

 

Sri Lanka was 99/6 and in desperate need of a partnership, which Wellalage and de Silva tried to build. The heroes for Sri Lanka with the ball were not countering the Indian spinners with the bat. Both the batsmen went all out against every loose ball, scoring a 63-run partnership before de Silva gave an easy catch to Gill at mid-on. Wellalage showed some intent of fighting back and winning the game for Sri Lanka but he was unsuccessful. The remaining wickets were a result of some excellent catching from the fielders and some mindful bowling from the talented china-man. India won the match by 41 runs as they comfortably dismissed the hosts for 172.

 

The match was a contest of tug of war as both the teams looked equally balanced and eager to perform, but in the end, it was the seven-time Asia Cup champions, who emerged victorious. There were many stand-out performances in the match like Rohit Sharma’s fifty on a turning track, Kuldeep’s four-wicket haul, and Wellalage 42 not out and 5/40. Although India won the match, it was an all-round performance from Wellalage that won the Man of the Match. This win over the defending champions won India a spot in the finals of the tournament.

Rohit Sharma now second fastest to score ten thousand runs in ODI Cricket

Arsh Verma |

 

Indian Captain Rohit Sharma on 12th September became the second fastest, sixth Indian, and fifteen overall to complete 10,000 runs in one-day internationals. The modern-day great joined this elite list on Tuesday when playing against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup at R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, Colombo. He was the only batter in the match who scored a half-century and helped his side to set a decent target, Sharma scored 53 runs in 48 balls with the help of seven 4s and two 6s. India won the match by 41 runs. 

 

It was the 7th over of the Indian inning when Hitman achieved this feat, he hit Ranjitha for a six to reach the milestone. Out of 15 people who scored 10k runs In terms of average, he was only behind his countrymen Virat Kohli and his first International captain the great Mahendra Singh Dhoni. 

 

This is not the only milestone he arrived at in the game, now he is also the leading six-hitter in the history of the Asia Cup with 28 sixes. He surpassed the record of Pakistani veteran Shahid Afridi to bring this landmark. The well-known six-hitter is not far away from hitting the most sixes in international cricket, he was just 14 sixes away from breaking the record for most sixes in world cricket. 

 

From being the third slowest to score two thousand runs in one-day cricket in 2013 to becoming the second fastest to complete 10k runs, Hitman Sharma has come a long way in the last 10 years. He is a perfect example of how to convert talent into legacy, a guy who was once considered the future of Indian cricket is proving to the veterans for believing in him and giving him an opportunity.  

 

Apart from personnel milestones, he also joined a special club of 5k runs in partnership with his brother of destruction, Virat Kohli. They only became the third Indian, eight overall, and the fastest pair to have a partnership of 5000 runs. Out of 13 pairs who scored more than four thousand runs in one-day International cricket, Rohit and Kohli have the maximum average. They scored 5006 runs together with an average of 62.57, with 15 half-centuries and 18 centuries partnership. He also scored 5k runs with Shikhar Dhawan and became the only cricketer in the ODI format, who was involved in two pairs, who scored 5 thousand runs jointly.

Russian President Putin praises India at Eastern Economic Forum

Arsh Verma |

After the successful conclusion of the 18th G20 Summit in New Delhi, the global focus shifted towards another grand event of the East. The 8th Eastern Economic Forum was started on 10th September in Vladivostok, Russia. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonwal was representing India at the economic summit and addressed the stakeholders on the Eastern Maritime Corridor, which operationalises from Chennai to Vladivostok, as an alternative trade route. The minister held several strategic bilateral talks on economics and political issues with his Russian counterparts Alexey Chekunkov and Vitaly Saveliev. Russian President Vladimir Putin also spoke to the attendees on the final day of the summit, 13 September.  

 

The Russian President skipped two major global events in the last 20 days, the BRICS Summit in South Africa and the G20 Summit in India due to the arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court for war crimes in Ukraine. Foreign Minister Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov represents Russia in both events. 

 

Speaking at the 8th Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, the Russian President praised the efforts of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enhancing the global economy. He also said that PM Modi is doing the right things for India to promote the open market in the country. 

 

In addition he said, “Everyone knows, we did not have domestic cars in the past, but now we do. True, they look more modest than the Mercedes or Audi cars we bought and drove in the 1990s, but that’s not a problem. I think we should follow the example of many of our partners, especially India. They focus on manufacturing and servicing vehicles made in India. I think PM Modi is doing the right thing to promote Make in India. He is right.” 

 

However, he did not make any comment on the offer of North Korean President Kim Jong Un, who offers support to help the Russians in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.  Delegations from China, Laos, Mongolia and ASEAN countries are also participating in the economic forum.

Beware of bats, the Nipah virus is back

Arsh Verma |

A health advisory warning has been issued in Kerala’s Kozhikode district regarding a suspected Nipah virus outbreak. Health Minister of Kerala Veena George held a high-level meeting on September 11, where she advised the citizens to take precautionary measures. The matter spread when two unnatural fever deaths were reported in Kozhikode on August 30, Four relatives (including one adult and three children) who were in contact with one of the victims were admitted to a hospital for treatment. Another apparent death from the Nipah virus occurred on September 11. In May 2018, 17 people died due to the Nipah virus in Changaroth village of Kozhikode district near Perambra and in 2021, a 12-year-old boy also died of a virus. 

 

The Chief Minister of Kerala P. Vijayan requested everyone to follow the action plan issued by the medical advisory committee. It’s my appeal to the people of states that do not panic or not believe in fake news, the government must ensure the safety and security of its citizens. He also added the state is observing the situation very closely.

 

Nipah is a deadly virus with a mortality rate of over 50 per cent. Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus which jumps from animals to humans who are in touch with them. It is a viral infection that mainly affects the body of animals such as bats, pigs, dogs, and horses. Symptoms of this virus are; fever, swelling of the brain, headache, breathing issues, cough and sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, severe pain, and muscle weakness. 

 

Nipah can spread to humans through close contact with infected animals or through secretions containing the virus in fruit trees, fruits, date palm sap, sap or rushes. It can spread from person to person through close contact at home or in the hospital. It can be spread by handling the corpses of Nipah patients.  

 

This virus is also known to spread through droplets in closed and confined environments. This happened with the 2018 outbreak in Kerala. The infection spread from the index patient to others in a small x-ray corridor in the hospital. It cannot spread in open, well-ventilated spaces.

Master the art of cooking 5 budget friendly meals

Preyensha Srivastava |

Creating budget-friendly meals has improved over time thanks to a combination of factors. Increased access to information through the internet has allowed for the sharing of cost-effective recipes and cooking tips. Additionally, awareness of the importance of budget-conscious eating has grown, leading to innovations in affordable ingredients and cooking techniques.

 

Why are budget-friendly meals helpful?

 

Budget-friendly meals are helpful for various reasons. Firstly, it encourages financial stability by the reduction of grocery expenses, allowing individuals and families to allocate funds to other essential needs. Moreover, budget-friendly meals often emphasize healthier, homemade options, which can lead to improved overall well-being and reduced healthcare costs. Moreover, this shift towards budget-conscious cooking is environmentally responsible, as it encourages the use of local, and less wasteful ingredients.

 

How to start preparing meals on a budget? 

 

  1. Design a menu and decide the meals you want to have for each course so that you are able to make a grocery list. With a meal plan, one tends to spend less on fast foods or convenience meals. 
  2. While buying groceries check for sales, coupons, etcetera so that you get good buys. However, do not buy unnecessary items or else they will go to waste.  
  3. Plant-based meals offer great protein options at a reasonable price, thus, try incorporating them into your menu. 
  4. Start incorporating ingredients like rice, pasta or barley into your recipes as they are inexpensive and still can be used in a plethora of different ways. 
  5. Avoid recipes that require special ingredients so that you do not go overboard. If by any chance you have to get that ingredient then see how it can be helpful to you in future as well. 
  6. Smartly use leftover ingredients so that you neither waste anything nor do you get bored because of repeating meals. 

 

Easy meals on a budget:  5 budget friendly meals

  

1. Egg Bhurji 

 

Honestly, it is very hard to go wrong with egg bhurji, moreover, the recipe is also very easy to make.

Ingredients: Eggs, onions, tomatoes, green chillies, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, salt, oil, fresh coriander

Recipe: In a pan, sauté onions until translucent. Add tomatoes and chillies. Once softened, add spices and beaten eggs. Scramble and cook until done. Garnish with fresh coriander, for that beautiful presentation and aromatic smell.

 

 

2. Vegetable Pulao 

  

It is one of the easiest yet wholesome meals. 

Ingredients: Basmati rice, mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, etc.), whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves), onions, ginger-garlic paste, green chillies, salt, oil or ghee

Recipe: Sauté whole spices and onions in oil or ghee. Add the ginger-garlic paste, vegetables, and rice. Add water, salt, and cook until the rice is done.

 

 

3. Vegetable Stir-Fry

  

A dish that can be combined with a bunch of things and can always be customised. 

Ingredients: Your favourite vegetables, soya sauce and ginger

Recipe: Stir-fry your favourite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots in a pan with soy sauce and ginger. Cook until the vegetables are soft, approx 10-15 mins depending on each type. At last serve, it with cooked rice or noodles. 

 

 

4. Spaghetti Carbonara 

  

Who does not love a good spaghetti? 

Ingredients: Spaghetti, eggs, grated cheese, bacon, spices

Recipe: Cook spaghetti.  Then mix eggs, grated cheese, and cooked bacon. Toss cooked spaghetti in the mixture and lastly serve it with season with black pepper.

 

 

5. Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken

 

Baked chicken with that lemony taste is all one needs!

Ingredients: Chicken drumsticks or thighs, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper

Recipe: Marinate chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Enjoy it. 

 

 

Always remember, that each of these are basic recipes, thus, you can always add or subtract ingredients based on what you have on hand and your personal preferences. 

 

Conclusion

 

The world of budget-friendly culinary endeavours provides a canvas rich with possibilities, from taste to nutrition. As individuals become more informed and responsible consumers, the importance of creating meals that are both cost-effective and nourishing becomes evident. The provided recipes, alongside the tips, are a testament to the fact that quality meals do not always have to come with a hefty price tag. By being mindful of our choices, we can achieve culinary delights that nourish our bodies, do not strain our wallets, and are environmentally conscientious. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, there is always room to explore, innovate, and delight in the realm of budget-friendly meals.

Ayodhya Sage puts a bounty of Rs.10 Crore on Udhayanidhi Stalin’s head

Arsh Verma |

 

For a second week, the demands for the execution and criticism against the DMK Minister were on the rise, because he remarked on eradicating Sanatan Dharma. K Annamalai the BJP Leader in Tamil Nadu bashed the people who believed that they would become heroes by spreading hate against any religion. Also, Ayodhya visionary Paramhans Acharya has declared a ₹10 crore bounty for Udhayanidhi’s head.

 

The BJP leader said, “Some people are unworthy, they think that demeaning someone’s religion can make them idols. People want overnight stardom, they came into politics as they belong to a bloodline related to politics.” The Politician told the local media, “Anyone who puts a bounty on someone’s head is a fake preacher.” pointing towards Paramhans Acharya. The leader did not disclose the name of the sage, the claim has since provoked a sharp comeback from the opponent leaders. Replying to the claim of the Ayodhya sage the Congress MP Karti Chidambaram.“Why does not your bulldozer government capture this imposter?” referring to the Yogi government in UP.  The Ayodhya seer, in the meantime, seems to have increased the severity of his threat by advising Stalin to “read the history of Sanatan Dharma” before criticizing it. 

 

“He should apologize for everything he has said that is contrary to our Sanatan Dharma; else, he would be punished, regardless of whether he is the chief minister’s son. If his head is not beheaded, I will raise the reward, and if necessary, I will execute him myself, Paramhans Acharya had promised last week. Earlier last month, the DMK leader caused controversy when he suggested that Sanatan Dharma should be destroyed. Additionally, he compared ‘Sanatan Dharma’ to diseases like dengue fever and malaria, stirring up debate across the country.

Saragarhi: The story of 21 Sikh soldiers who became immortal

Arsh Verma |

12 September 1897, on this day 126 years ago, 21 valiant Sikh soldiers of 36th Sikh Regt led by Havildar Ishavar Singh repelled a ferocious attack by thousands of Orakzai tribesmen. Today in 1897 at Saragarhi, Havildar Ishavar Singh led 20 Sikh soldiers in a last stand rarely witnessed in the annals of military history. 21 soldiers of the Sikh Regiment fought against 10,000 Afghan tribesmen. They had the option of withdrawing from the post, they were offered money and safe passage, but they refused. Havildar Ishavar Singh and his men willingly choose death before dishonour, for the ashes of their fathers, for the honour of the regiment, and for the pride of being soldiers. The 21 Sikh soldiers at Saragarhi became immortal and walked with the gods.  

 

Saragarhi was a small village in the border region of Kohat, located in the Samana Hills in present-day Pakistan. On 20 April 1894, the 36th Sikhs of the British Indian Army were formed under the command of Colonel J. Cook, consisting entirely of Jat Sikhs. In August 1897, five companies of the 36th Sikhs under Lieutenant Colonel John Haughton were sent to the north-west frontier of British India (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) and were stationed at Samana Hills, Kurag, Sangar, Sahtop Dhar, and Saragarhi.

 

The Day of Forgotten Battle

It was a sunny morning on 12th September, when Sepoy Gurmukh Singh reported that around thousands of armed men were marching towards the fort. Immediately, he informed his commander at Fort Havildar Ishavar Singh and Colonel Haughton for help. However, the British official denied sending immediate reinforcements to protect the fort and asked the soldiers to back out from the post. Then the 21 fearless soldiers of the Sikh regiment remember the teachings of their religious guru and decide to fight for the motherland. 

 

Around 10:00 a.m., the 21 courageous men of the 36th Sikh regiment started to retaliate against the attack of Martini-Henry rifles with their old weapons. Sepoy Bhagwan Singh was the first who attained martyrdom and Sepoy Lal Singh was the first who was highly wounded. After a long hurdle, the Afghans broke a portion of the wall and successfully entered the fort. The leaders of the enemy forces reportedly made promises to the soldiers to entice them to surrender, but they refused and some of the fiercest hand-to-hand battles occurred.

 

The last surviving defender was Sepoy Gurmukh Singh, who reported the battle to Haughton. His last message was to ask permission to take the gun. After receiving permission, he packed the tape recorder and kept the door closed. He reportedly killed 40 Afghans and the Pashtuns were forced to light a fire to kill him. Singh is said to have repeatedly shouted the Sikh battle cry, as he died. “Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal!” means (Blessed forever is he who says that God is the ultimate truth!).

Aftermath

The battle was not as easy as the Afghans had thought. They were thinking that they would defeat these 21 soldiers within an hour and move forward to capture Fort Gulistan, but that did not happen. The war lasted almost the whole day which broke the confidence of the Pashtuns. The enemies also praised the bravery of Sikh soldiers, “They died fighting like demons.” 

 

The 21 Sikh non-commissioned soldiers who died in the Battle of Saragarhi were from the Majha district of Punjab and were posthumously awarded the Indian Order of Merit, the highest award an Indian soldier could receive at the time. The equivalent award for bravery was the Victoria Cross. The award is equivalent to today’s Param Vir Chakra, which is conferred by the President of India.