In the rugged, unforgiving landscape of Drass, where the echoes of the Kargil War still resonate, a father's unwavering love finds its most poignant expression. Every year, as the snows melt and the harsh winter recedes, Colonel Virender Thapar (Retd.) embarks on a solemn pilgrimage. He travels to Drass to honor a promise made to his son, Captain Vijayant Thapar, who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Kargil War in 1999.
Captain Vijayant Thapar, a young and promising officer of the 12 Rajputana Rifles, was martyred on June 29, 1999, while leading his platoon in a daring mission to capture the Knoll complex, a strategically vital position in the Drass sub-sector. He was just 22 years old. His bravery and leadership earned him the Vir Chakra posthumously, one of India's highest wartime gallantry awards.
Before embarking on his final mission, Captain Thapar penned a letter to his family, a farewell that has since become an enduring part of Indian military history. "Dearest Papa, Mama, Birdie, and Granny," he wrote, "by the time you get this letter, I'll be observing you all from the sky, enjoying the hospitality of Apsaras." He urged his family to donate to an orphanage and remember him with a smile. This letter wasn't just a goodbye; it was a testament to his courage, his love for his family, and his unwavering dedication to his country.
Since his son's martyrdom, Colonel Thapar has made it a point to visit Drass every year. His journey is not just a ritual; it's a deeply personal and emotional experience. He retraces his son's final steps, walking through the rocky terrain where Vijayant fought and breathed his last. He spends time at the Kargil War Memorial, a place that commemorates the sacrifices of all the soldiers who laid down their lives in the conflict.
The Kargil War Memorial is more than just a monument; it's a place of pilgrimage for the families of the fallen heroes. It stands as a stark reminder of the cost of freedom and the sacrifices made by those who defend it. For Colonel Thapar, it's a place to connect with his son, to feel his presence, and to keep his memory alive.
The annual visit to Drass is Colonel Thapar's way of honoring the promise he made to his son. It's a promise to remember him, to keep his spirit alive, and to ensure that his sacrifice is never forgotten. It's a journey of remembrance, of grief, and ultimately, of hope. He carries with him the weight of his loss, but also the pride of knowing that his son died a hero, defending his country with unwavering courage and dedication.
This pilgrimage is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring bonds of family. It's a story of love, loss, and the unwavering spirit of a father who refuses to let his son's memory fade away. Each year, as Colonel Thapar stands in Drass, amidst the towering mountains and the solemn silence, he keeps the promise he made to his fallen son, ensuring that Captain Vijayant Thapar's legacy of bravery and sacrifice continues to inspire generations to come.
