Captain Vikram Batra Age, Height, Family, Career, Net Worth, Lifestyle & Facts

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Nickname: ‘’Sher Shah’’ (“Lion King”)

Profession: Army Personnel

Famous For: Being honoured with “Param Vir Chakra” (Posthumous) for his martyrdom in the 1999 Kargil War

Date of Birth: 9 September 1974

Birthplace: Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India

Age (at the time of death): 24 Years

Zodiac sign: Virgo

Nationality: Indian

Hometown: Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India

Religion: Hinduism

Caste: Punjabi Khatri

Age: 24 Years

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EDUCATION

School: • D.A.V. Public School, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh (up to 8th class) • Central School, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh (Senior Secondary)

College/University: • DAV College, Chandigarh • Panjab University, Chandigarh

Educational Qualification(s): • B.Sc Medical Sciences • MA English (did not complete)

PHYSICAL STATISTICS

Height (approx.): in centimeters – 173 cm in meters – 1.73 m in feet inches – 5’ 8”

Eye Colour: Black

Hair Colour: Black

FAMILY & RELATIONSHIPS

Marital Status: Unmarried

Affairs/Girlfriends: Dimple Cheema (1995-till his death)

Wife/Spouse: N/A

Parents: Father – Girdhari Lal Batra (a government school principal) Mother – Kamal Kanta Batra (a school teacher) (deceased) Note: His mother died in Palampur on 15 February 2024.

Siblings: Brother – Vishal (twin) Sisters – Seema and Nutan

Girlfriend: Dimple Cheema

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Awards, Honours, Achievements: Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous)

OTHER INFORMATION

Service/Branch: Indian Army

Rank: Captain

Years of Service: 1996-1999

Unit: 13 JAK RIF

Wars/Battles: • Battle of Point 4875 • Battle of Point 5140 • Operation Vijay • Kargil War

Date of Death: 7 July 1999

Place of Death: Area Ledge, Point 4875 Complex, Kargil, Jammu & Kashmir, India

Death Cause: Martyrdom (during the 1999 Kargil War)

Hobbies: Playing Table Tennis, Listening to Music

Favourite Restaurant: Neugal Cafe in Palampur

INTERESTING BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Captain Vikram Batra was born in the tranquil town of Palampur, nestled in the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh. As the third child in a family devoted to education, with both parents being teachers, Vikram was instilled with a strong sense of learning from an early age. He entered the world just 14 minutes before his twin brother, Vishal, who was affectionately named after the sons of Lord Rama, with Vikram taking the name “Luv.” This early bond between the twins would shape much of their shared childhood, characterized by friendly rivalry and mutual support. Vikram’s early education was primarily facilitated by his mother, laying a solid foundation for his academic pursuits. Not only was he an exceptional student, but he also demonstrated remarkable athleticism. Vikram represented his school at the national level in various competitions, including table tennis and karate, earning accolades such as a Green Belt at a national camp.

His academic journey continued at DAV College in Chandigarh, where he joined the Air Wing of the National Cadet Corps (NCC). His leadership abilities became evident as he was recognized as the best NCC Air Wing Cadet of Punjab Directorate for the North Zone. In addition to his commitment to the NCC, Vikram held the prestigious role of president of the Youth Service Club at his college. Driven by a desire to serve something greater than himself, he declined an offer to join the Merchant Navy, choosing instead to pursue a path that he believed would bring him closer to glory and contribute to his country. After completing his Bachelor’s degree in 1995, he enrolled in a Master’s program in English at Panjab University, all while working part-time to alleviate any financial burden on his family. It was during this time that he met Dimple Cheema, a love story that solidified his belief in profound commitment; a testament to this was when he filled her ‘Maang’ with his blood, symbolizing his devotion.

In 1996, Vikram’s ambition led him to successfully complete the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination and secure a position at the Services Selection Board in Allahabad, where he ranked among the top candidates. His journey in military training began at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun in June 1996. After 19 months of rigorous training, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army in December 1997, specifically in the 13th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. His early postings took him to Sopore in Jammu and Kashmir, challenging him with numerous encounters against militants. One harrowing encounter left a deep mark on him when he lost a man under his command, driving him to avenge the loss with determination and grief.

As the Kargil War erupted in 1999, Vikram’s resolve only intensified. He made a poignant last call to his mother, assuring her of his safety. Arriving in Dras on June 6, he led his unit into battle, capturing strategic points with exceptional bravery. His indomitable spirit was encapsulated in his rallying cry during the operations: “Yeh Dil Mange More!” Following his successful capture of Point 5140, where he displayed extraordinary valor, he was promoted to Captain. Unfortunately, his next mission to capture Point 4875 was fraught with peril, ultimately leading to his tragic death. On July 7, he selflessly exposed himself to enemy fire to save a fellow soldier, ultimately succumbing to his injuries. Vikram Batra’s exemplary courage did not go unrecognized; he was posthumously awarded India’s highest gallantry honor, the Param Vir Chakra, which his father accepted in 2000.

Captain Vikram Batra’s legacy continues to inspire generations. His bravery during the Kargil War was immortalized in the 2003 film “LOC Kargil,” where his character was portrayed by Abhishek Bachchan. Several memorials and honors have been established in his name, including Batra Top and various facilities like the Vikram Batra Block at the Services Selection Center in Allahabad and the Captain Vikram Batra Enclave in Jabalpur. His story is set to be retold in a biopic with actor Sidharth Malhotra, further solidifying his status as a national hero. Even in 2022, art commemorating his valor surfaced, showcasing the enduring impact of Captain Vikram Batra’s life and sacrifice on the hearts of many.

Note: All biographical information compiled from publicly available sources.

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