The Lion of Ladakh: Colonel Chhewang Rinchen and his many exploits

There are some soldiers who are born to be soldiers. It is not a choice they make consciously, but a vocation that pulls them towards it subconsciously. Col Chhewang Rinchen, Maha Vir Chakra and Bar, Sena Medal, Mentioned-in-Despatches, was one such man. Not much is known about this legendary soldier of the Indian Army and Ladakh beyond regimental history and Ladakhi folklore. But he is not the only soldier to suffer such ignominy. There are countless others who remain unrecognised among their countrymen. Lately, however, there has been some effort in highlighting the tales of bravery and soldierly accomplishments of…