Vikram Khakhar's involvement underscores the importance of this project, which promises to shed light on a pivotal figure in Indian military history, says Dr S Ramachandran. Report from the #newsdesk.

In a significant announcement, producer Vikram Khakhar has acquired the life rights of War Hero Abdul Hamid as well as the rights to the forthcoming biography Mere Papa Param Vir, chronicling the extraordinary life of Abdul Hamid, India's sole Muslim recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. 

According to Khakhar, the biography, authored by Dr S. Ramachandran, is set to explore profound themes of humanity and nationalism. Khakhar expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "I believe that Abdul Hamid's story is one that deserves to be told with authenticity and reverence. His bravery and sacrifice serve as an inspiration to us all, and it is an honour to be a part of preserving his legacy."

Dr S Ramachandran, known for his incisive writing and meticulous research, has assured that the biography will offer readers an intimate glimpse into Abdul Hamid's life. "Through extensive research and first-hand accounts from Abdul Hamid's son, Zainul Hasan, we aim to paint a comprehensive picture of this revered war hero," remarked Dr S Ramachandran.

One of the key aspects of Mere Papa Param Vir is the inclusion of previously undisclosed research and personal anecdotes. Hasan, Abdul Hamid's son, shared his insights exclusively for the biography, offering a deeper understanding of his father's character and motivations. "My father's story goes beyond his acts of valour on the battlefield. He was a man of integrity and compassion, and it is important to convey that aspect of his personality," stated Hasan.

Khakhar's commitment to preserving Abdul Hamid's legacy extends to securing the Life Rights to Abdul Hamid's personality from his family members. "It is essential that we honour Abdul Hamid's memory authentically. By collaborating closely with his family, we ensure that his story is told with the respect and reverence it deserves," emphasised Khakhar.

Khakhar's vision is to inspire future generations with Abdul Hamid's exemplary courage and unwavering dedication to the nation. Through this collaboration, he aims to immortalise a hero whose legacy continues to resonate with the spirit of resilience and selflessness.

Mere Papa Param Vir is poised to transcend the boundaries of a traditional biography, serving as a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and the timeless ideals of valour and sacrifice. With Vikram Khakhar at the helm, this endeavour promises to shine a spotlight on a true icon of courage and honour, ensuring that Abdul Hamid's legacy continues to inspire and uplift hearts for generations to come.

ABOUT ABDUL HAMID:

Abdul Hamid was born on 1 July 1933 in a village in Ghazipur district of Uttar Pradesh. His mother was Sakina Begum and his father was Mohammad Usman, a tailor. Hamid would help his father's business by stitching clothes. 

He joined the Grenadiers regiment of the Indian Army on 27 December 1954 and was later posted to the regiment's 4th Battalion (formerly the 109th Infantry), where he served for the rest of his career. 

Abdul Hamid served with the battalion in Agra, Amritsar, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, NEFA and Ramgarh. During the Sino-Indian War of 1962, Hamid's battalion was part of the 7th Infantry Brigade commanded by Brigadier John Dalvi and participated in the Battle of Namka Chu against the People’s Liberation Army. Surrounded and cut off, the battalion broke out on foot into Bhutan and on to Misamari. Second Lieutenant G.V.P. Rao was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his actions during the war; it was the highest gallantry award received by the battalion since Indian independence, until Hamid's commendation. 

As a prelude to Operation Gibraltar, Pakistan's strategy to infiltrate Jammu and Kashmir and start a rebellion against Indian rule, Pakistani forces attempted a series of incursions across the  border. From 5 to 10 August 1965, Indian troops uncovered a mass infiltration. Captured documents and prisoners revealed Pakistan's plans to capture Kashmir with a guerrilla attack were brought to light; about 30,000 guerrillas were trained by the Pakistanis for this purpose.

In a counter-offensive, India launched operations across the international border. The 4th Infantry Division was charged with the capture of Pakistani territory east of the Ichogil Canal, and the suppression of a possible attack along the Kasur-Khem Karan axis. After reaching the canal, the division awaited a Pakistani assault. 4 Grenadiers were entrusted with a vital position before the village of Chima on the Khem Karan-Bhikhiwind line. At the Battle of Asal Uttar on 9–10 September 1965, Hamid destroyed eight Pakistani tanks and was killed in action destroying the ninth tank. For his actions Hamid was awarded the Param Vir Chakra on 10th December 1965.

The official citation read:

At 0800 hours on 10 September 1965 Pakistan forces launched an attack with a regiment of Patton tanks on a vital area ahead of village Cheema on the Bhikhiwind road in the Khem Karan Sector. Intense artillery shelling preceded the attack. The enemy tanks penetrated the forward position by 0900 hours. Realising the grave situation, Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid who was commander of a RCL gun detachment moved out to a flanking position with his gun mounted on a jeep, under intense enemy shelling and tank fire. Taking an advantageous position, he knocked out the leading enemy tank and then swiftly changing his position, he sent another tank up in flames. By this time the enemy tanks in the area spotted him and brought his jeep under concentrated machine-gun and high explosive fire. Undeterred, Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid kept on firing on yet another enemy tank with his recoilless gun. While doing so, he was mortally wounded by an enemy high explosive shell. Havildar Abdul Hamid’s brave action inspired his comrades to put up a gallant fight and to beat back the heavy tank assault by the enemy. His complete disregard for his personal safety during the operation and his sustained acts of bravery in the face of constant enemy fire were a shining example not only to his unit but also to the whole division and were in the highest traditions of the Indian Army.

Gazette of India Notification No. 111-Press/65.