Sanawar: The two-day Sanawar Military Literature Festival kicked off at The Lawrence School, Sanawar which brought together authors, military veterans, historians and enthusiasts to explore the rich tapestry of military literature and its profound impact on history, culture and society. Welcoming the attendees, the school’s Headmaster, Himmat Singh Dhillon, highlighted the institution’s remarkable legacy, stating, “The 178-year-old institution has produced numerous distinguished figures who served as heroes in both the British and Indian armies and played a pivotal role during historical conflicts, including the British Raj and India’s independence. Through this initiative, we pay tribute to those who shaped our history and continue to inspire future generations.”
While unfolding the topic “Role and Legacy of Women in the Armed Forces” Komal Chadha emphasized the women’s achievements are not just symbolic but represent a profound shift in military strategy where competence and dedication transcend gender barriers. The session featured senior army lady officers, decorated women veterans and wives of the army officers who have shattered barriers in military service. They highlighted the resilience, courage and leadership demonstrated by women in combat and support roles across different branches of the armed forces.
Major Priya Jhingan , former faculty member of Sanawar, known for being one of the first women cadets to join the forces lauded that Policies like the Supreme Court’s ruling on permanent commission for women in the Indian Army and the opening of the National Defence Academy (NDA) for female cadets were recognized as significant steps toward a more inclusive military.
Ambreen Zaidi, an Army Officer’s wife and author of books “Warrior Widows” and “Soldiering On”. Deeply moved by the heart wrenching struggle of war widows , she felt inspired to pen down their saga of pain and struggle. She emphasized that there is an urgent need to create more awareness about the sacrifice made by the ‘men in uniform’ and their immediate family members who often battle unsympathetic bureaucracy and their utter indifference.
Sqn Ldr Phagun Rishi, an OS 2009 batch alumna, recalls the powerful moment that sparked her dream, watching Chief of Army Staff Gen JJ Singh land in a helicopter on school’s founders’ day accompanied by a lady aviator. That image ignited her ambition to become the first IAF officer from Sanawar. Breaking barriers in the once male-dominated defence aviation sector, she finds pride in how the path has become more accessible.
Mahua Pal Singh, Beeban Sidhu and Rindy Shergill emphasized the need for continued reforms and societal support to further strengthen women’s participation in national defense.
Later, the Old Sanawarian (OS) War Heroes Samvad which was addressed by Brigadier Pradeep Sharma, Col. AP Randhawa and Captain Dilsher Singh Randhawa was a tribute to the fearless alumni of Sanawar School who have dedicated their lives to the nation’s defense. This session celebrated their sacrifices, leadership and unwavering commitment to service which inspired students as future generations to follow in their footsteps. Their insights on leadership, battlefield courage and commitment motivated students to consider a career in the defense forces. Brig. Sharma’s strategic expertise, Col. Randhawa’s tales of valor and highlighted Sanawar’s enduring military legacy.
At the end, ‘the Clarion Call: Episodes of Bravery’ session featured an inspiring exchange with Chief Guest Lt Gen Tejinder Singh Shergill (Retd.), PVSM, Col. Amresh Sharma, and Commodore Rohit Kaushik. Through riveting accounts of their service, they illuminated the values of courage, discipline and commitment that define a military career. Their deliverable resonated deeply with students, instilling a sense of pride and motivation to uphold Sanawar’s rich legacy of producing dedicated defenders of the nation.
The Lit Fest will continue on Saturday with the Basantar Memorial Inter-School English Declamation and a military-themed inter-school poetry composition contest. Later, Lt. Gen. Mohit Wadhwa, SM, Chief of Staff, HQ Western Command will review the coffee table book titled “The Lawrence School, Sanawar—Military Heritage, 1847–2024”which highlights the rich military legacy of the institution and its long-standing association with the armed forces.
