Remembering Major Mohit Sharma: Soldier whose story rises above 'Dhurandhar' movie controversy

Remembering Major Mohit Sharma

As the buzz around the Bollywood film Dhurandhar grows, so does the conversation about the real-life hero many believe inspired it: Major Mohit Sharma. While the filmmakers deny the connection, the story of this brave soldier is more gripping and inspirational than any screenplay.

So, who was the man behind the headlines?

Born in Rohtak, Haryana, in 1978, Mohit was a multi-talented boy, his family lovingly called him "Chintu." He had a rare gift for music, able to master any instrument he laid his hands on—be it the guitar, mouth organ or synthesizer. His friends and colleagues in the army, however, knew him by his nickname, "Mike."

But behind the artistic soul lay a fierce patriot. Though he initially enrolled in an engineering college, he soon followed his true calling and joined the National Defence Academy (NDA). There, the musician transformed into an elite warrior, excelling as a champion horse rider, a featherweight boxer, and a top swimmer.

Read Also: Unbelievable comeback story of DSP Jainendra Nigam who was once ARRESTED and JAILED

Operation "Iftikhar Bhatt"

Major Sharma's most legendary feat was a daring undercover mission. To infiltrate a terrorist group, he became "Iftikhar Bhatt." He grew his hair, kept an unkempt beard, and perfected his Kashmiri. He weaved a heartbreaking story of a brother killed by the army, convincingly portraying a man seeking revenge.

He gained the terrorists' trust so completely that they planned attacks with him. When their suspicion grew, "Mike" didn't back down. In a breathtaking moment of courage, he threw down his AK-47 and challenged them, "If you don't trust me, kill me right now." In their moment of confusion, he drew his pistol and neutralized both terrorists. For this incredible act of gallantry, he was awarded the Sena Medal.

An Ashoka Chakra Awardee

Major Sharma's bravery knew no bounds. In 2009, while leading his team in a dense Kashmiri forest, they were ambushed. Under heavy fire, he crawled forward to rescue two of his wounded soldiers. Even after being shot in the chest, he continued to fight, saving his men and eliminating multiple terrorists before making the ultimate sacrifice.

For this final act of "conspicuous bravery and leadership," he was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime military honor.

The controversy around Dhurandhar has brought Major Mohit Sharma's name back into the spotlight. But his true legacy doesn't need a film to be remembered. He remains a timeless icon of passion, versatility, and unimaginable courage.

He was the musician who played melodies of peace and the soldier who fought with the roar of a warrior. His story is not just one of conflict, but of profound love—for his art, his comrades, and his country.