On April 3rd, we remember and celebrate the birth anniversary of one of India’s most legendary military figures—Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw. As the first Field Marshal of the Indian Army, Manekshaw’s career and legacy stand as a beacon of leadership, courage, and strategic brilliance. While his military exploits are well-documented, his insights on leadership, especially in the context of politics and governance, provide invaluable lessons that remain relevant today.
Manekshaw was more than just a military tactician; he was a leader who understood that true leadership transcends battlefields. His thoughts on leadership, grounded in the values of integrity, professionalism, and care for those he led, offer powerful guidance for today’s leaders in both the military and political spheres.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key principles that defined Field Marshal Manekshaw’s leadership—principles that we need more of in today’s world.
Independence and Integrity
At the core of Manekshaw’s leadership was his unwavering commitment to integrity and independence. He believed that leaders, especially in politics, must place the nation’s interests above personal or party agendas. One of the clearest demonstrations of this principle came during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, when, despite significant political pressure to rush into action, Manekshaw stood firm in his decision to wait for the military to be fully prepared. This deliberate approach ensured that the Indian military was ready for what would become a decisive victory that led to the creation of Bangladesh. His commitment to the long-term welfare of the nation, over short-term political gain, played a pivotal role in India’s success.
In today’s political environment, where short-term gains and populism often cloud decision-making, we need leaders who emulate Manekshaw’s sense of integrity—leaders who will make tough decisions, even when they’re not immediately popular, and prioritize the country’s future over personal or political ambitions.
Professionalism
For Manekshaw, professionalism was non-negotiable. Whether it was on the battlefield or in the corridors of political power, he believed that leaders must be well-informed, competent, and capable of making rational, informed decisions. His military career exemplified this commitment to professionalism. For instance, during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, he was instrumental in the planning of Operation Vijay, ensuring meticulous preparation and the highest standards of training for his troops. His approach wasn’t just about winning battles—it was about upholding the highest standards of excellence in every aspect of leadership.
In today’s military, and indeed in any leadership role, professionalism should be a guiding principle. Manekshaw taught us that leaders must not only understand the tasks at hand but also be prepared for every possible outcome. The stakes are high, and the best leaders are those who ensure their teams are ready, well-equipped, and capable of rising to the challenge.
Decisiveness
Manekshaw’s leadership was also defined by his decisiveness—the ability to make tough choices, especially when those choices were not popular. In 1971, when political leaders were hesitant to take military action, Manekshaw pushed for an all-out war against Pakistan. His firm belief in the military’s capabilities and his unwavering resolve in making the decision to go to war played a crucial role in India’s success in the war, resulting in the birth of Bangladesh.
This quality of decisiveness is crucial in today’s world as well. Whether in military leadership or political governance, the ability to make clear, bold decisions in times of uncertainty is what separates great leaders from the rest. In today’s volatile geopolitical climate, we need leaders who can make difficult decisions, even when they face immense pressure from multiple fronts.
Leading by Example
One of Manekshaw’s most admired qualities was his ability to lead by example. He wasn’t just a commander giving orders from the back; he led from the front, inspiring his subordinates with his courage, composure, and unwavering commitment to duty. His personal integrity, humility, and strong ethical standards earned him the respect and loyalty of those who served under him.
In an era where leadership is often more about appearances than actions, Manekshaw’s example reminds us that true leadership begins with personal integrity. Today’s leaders, both in the military and in political spheres, must set the standard through their actions. Leaders who act with honor and integrity will naturally inspire those around them to do the same.
Trust and Unity
Manekshaw understood that trust and unity were paramount, especially in a diverse country like India. The Indian Army under his command was a mosaic of regional, linguistic, and cultural diversity, yet he was able to unify the force into a cohesive, effective unit. His leadership transcended these differences, emphasizing that the strength of any organization, especially a nation, lies in its ability to build trust among its people.
In today’s globalized world, where divisiveness often takes center stage, building unity is more critical than ever. Manekshaw’s leadership demonstrated that, in both the military and political spheres, success hinges on a shared sense of purpose and mutual trust. In India and across the world, leaders must prioritize unity, bringing together diverse groups under common goals for the greater good.
Care for the Welfare of the Troops and the People
One of the most significant aspects of Manekshaw’s leadership was his deep concern for the welfare of his soldiers. He understood that a leader’s true strength comes from the loyalty and well-being of those they lead. Manekshaw worked tirelessly to improve the conditions of the Indian soldiers, from better equipment and compensation to improved living standards.
This care extended beyond the military; he believed that political leaders should similarly prioritize the welfare of their citizens. In his view, a nation’s strength lies in its people, and leaders must ensure that their needs—whether material, social, or emotional—are met.
In today’s military and political climate, where the welfare of individuals can often take a back seat to grandiose policies, Manekshaw’s approach is a vital reminder that the true power of leadership comes from the people you lead.
We Need Leaders Like Him in Today’s Army
Reflecting on Field Marshal Manekshaw’s legacy, one cannot help but think: we need leaders like him in today’s army. As the world faces new and evolving challenges, the Indian Army—like all military institutions—needs leaders who embody the same values that Manekshaw championed: professionalism, decisiveness, integrity, and concern for the welfare of those they lead.
Today’s officers and commanders must look to Manekshaw’s example as a model for leadership. As India faces complex security challenges in an increasingly unpredictable world, we need leaders who can think strategically, act decisively, and above all, lead with honor and responsibility.
Sam Manekshaw’s Lecture on Leadership
One of Manekshaw’s most memorable contributions to the world of leadership was his lecture on the fundamentals of command and leadership. In it, he emphasized that true leadership is not about giving orders but about taking responsibility, especially in moments of crisis. According to him, “The true test of leadership is not when things are going well, but when you’re faced with adversity. It is at that moment that your leadership will be truly tested.”
This lecture continues to resonate with military and political leaders alike. It’s a call to all leaders to step up during difficult times, to remain calm in the face of uncertainty, and to always keep the well-being of those they lead as their top priority.
Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw’s legacy is not just about military victories but about his vision of leadership—one rooted in integrity, professionalism, decisiveness, and care for the people you lead. In today’s world, we need more leaders who embody these values, whether in the military or in political governance.
As we remember his extraordinary contributions on his birth anniversary, let us commit ourselves to carrying forward his leadership principles. Whether we are commanding troops or governing nations, we must ensure that the values of independence, professionalism, and unity guide our actions. Field Marshal Manekshaw’s life reminds us that great leaders are not born—they are made, through integrity, dedication, and a relentless commitment to the welfare of others.
Let’s strive to lead with the same honor, courage, and foresight that made Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw one of India’s greatest heroes.
