The last man at Srijap: Major Dhan Singh Thapa’s defiance of 600

As the nation bows in reverence to its heroes, one name rises like a mountain peak among the bravest of the brave — Major Dhan Singh Thapa, Param Vir Chakra awardee, whose defiance at Srijap stands as an eternal ode to courage.

Born on April 28, 1928, in Shimla, Major Thapa grew up in the quiet hills of Solan, where his father, Padam Singh Thapa, tilled the land as a farmer. As a child, he often trekked long distances carrying sacks of corn and other produce on his back to his maternal uncle’s home in Shimla. Years later, he would fondly recall these journeys to his children — unbelievable to many, but a glimpse of the resilience and endurance that shaped his spirit from an early age.

His life found companionship in Shukla Rana of Dharamsala, who stood by him as he donned the olive green. Today, at 91, she lives with her daughters and grandchildren, still holding vivid memories of a husband who lived not just for her, but for a nation. His daughter, Madhulika Thapa, immortalised his tale of sacrifice, capture and return in her book The Warrior Gorkha.

In 1962, with China’s storm brewing on the northern borders, destiny called Major Thapa to Pangong Lake. His wife, then expecting, let him go with a promise — that he would return with India’s highest honour. Fate did not disappoint. Their newborn son, named Paramdeep after the medal his father earned, proved to be a symbol of survival and fortune.

Commissioned into the 1st Battalion, 8 Gorkha Rifles, Thapa had always been known for grit. But on the bitter night of October 19–20, 1962, his name was etched into eternity. With just 28 Gorkhas at Srijap Post against a wave of 600 Chinese soldiers, he knew retreat was no option. His command was simple: “Dig fast, dig deep — hold the post.”

The sky lit up with artillery, mortars and incendiary bombs. The earth shook with rockets and tank fire. Yet, the Gorkhas thundered back with their battle cry — “Jai Maha Kali, Ayo Gorkhali!” The defenders fought like warriors from another age, cutting down wave after wave of the enemy. Ammunition dwindled, trenches collapsed, comrades fell — but Thapa and his men did not yield. When bullets ran dry, khukris flashed; when even khukris slipped from hands, they fought bare-handed.

By dawn, Srijap was a smoking ruin. Only three men stood. Major Thapa, refusing surrender, fought till the last breath of strength before being overwhelmed and taken prisoner. For days, his family believed him martyred — until the Chinese released a list of prisoners and his name glowed like a miracle.

For this unmatched gallantry, Major Thapa was conferred the Param Vir Chakra. He returned to service, rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and after retirement, lived quietly, away from the limelight of his own legend. On September 6, 2005, he passed into history — leaving behind a family and a nation that will forever remember him not just as a soldier, but as the soul of courage itself.

Across India today, in statues, memorials and the tales passed down in Army schools, Major Dhan Singh Thapa’s name is spoken not with words alone — but with pride, with reverence and with a lump in the throat