Brigadier Mohammad Usman: The Lion of Naushera

Remembering the Hero of Jhangar on his death anniversary, July 3

By Ravi Rohmetra

Brigadier Mohammad Usman, MVC, occupies a distinguished place in India’s military history as a symbol of courage, patriotism and the secular traditions of the Indian Army. Popularly remembered as “Naushera ka Sher” (The Lion of Naushera) and the “Hero of Jhangar”, he made the supreme sacrifice on July 3, 1948, during the first Indo-Pak war in Jammu and Kashmir.

On the occasion of his death anniversary, it is fitting to pay tribute to this legendary soldier whose valour, leadership and unwavering commitment to India continue to inspire generations.

Born on July 15, 1912, at Bibipur village in present-day Azamgarh district of Uttar Pradesh, Mohammad Usman received his early education at Harish Chandra High School in Varanasi. An outstanding student and a determined young man, he earned admission to the prestigious Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst, in England despite intense competition.

He belonged to the last batch of Indian cadets to be trained at Sandhurst and was commissioned into the Baluch Regiment in the mid-1930s. During his military career, he served in Afghanistan and Burma, earning recognition for his professional competence and exceptional leadership qualities.

The Partition of India in 1947 posed a difficult choice for many officers of the undivided Indian Army. As the Baluch Regiment was allotted to Pakistan, Brigadier Usman came under tremendous pressure to join the newly created Pakistan Army. Historical accounts suggest that he was even offered the prospect of becoming its Army Chief.

However, Brigadier Usman remained steadfast in his loyalty to India. Rejecting all inducements, he chose to serve the land of his birth and was subsequently transferred to the Dogra Regiment. His decision remains one of the most powerful examples of patriotism and commitment to national ideals.

By late 1947, Pakistan had launched tribal invasions and military operations in Jammu and Kashmir. Brigadier Usman was appointed commander of the 50 Independent Parachute Brigade and entrusted with the defence of the strategically vital Naushera sector.

The fall of Jhangar to Pakistani forces on December 25, 1947, was a serious setback for Indian forces. Brigadier Usman reportedly vowed not to sleep on a cot until Jhangar was recaptured. The loss of Jhangar also emboldened Pakistani forces, increasing pressure on Naushera.

Against overwhelming odds, Brigadier Usman successfully organised the defence of Naushera in February 1948. His troops repulsed repeated enemy assaults and inflicted heavy casualties on a numerically superior force.

Military historian Lt Gen S.K. Sinha, who accompanied General K.M. Cariappa to Naushera, later recalled how Brigadier Usman quickly captured the strategically important feature known as Kot under Operation Kipper. Soon thereafter, more than 10,000 infiltrators launched a major offensive against Naushera. Indian troops, under Brigadier Usman’s inspiring leadership, decisively defeated the attackers, who reportedly left behind over 900 dead.

The victory transformed Brigadier Usman into a national hero and earned him the titles “Hero of Naushera” and “Saviour of Naushera.”

Yet, Jhangar remained his primary objective.

After meticulous planning, Brigadier Usman launched an offensive to recapture the town. On March 18, 1948, Indian forces successfully regained control of Jhangar, marking one of the most significant achievements of the 1947-48 war.

Sadly, it was the same battlefield that claimed his life.

On the evening of July 3, 1948, Brigadier Usman was at his command post near Jhangar after offering prayers and reviewing operational matters with his officers. During a lull in enemy shelling, he emerged from cover. Moments later, an enemy artillery shell exploded nearby, killing him instantly. He was only 35 years old, just days short of his 36th birthday.

Pakistan had reportedly announced a reward of Rs 50,000 for his capture or death—a huge sum at the time—reflecting the importance it attached to neutralising one of India’s most formidable commanders.

Brigadier Usman was posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award.

The nation mourned his loss deeply. In recognition of his extraordinary service and sacrifice, he was accorded a State funeral in New Delhi. Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Defence Minister Sardar Baldev Singh, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Sheikh Abdullah and senior military officers attended the funeral. He was laid to rest with full honours at Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi.

To this day, Brigadier Mohammad Usman remains India’s highest-ranking military commander to have laid down his life on the battlefield while leading his men in combat.

Several anecdotes from his life reveal the strength of his character. It is said that as a child he overcame a stammer through sheer determination and once risked his own life to save a drowning child. These qualities of courage, perseverance and self-belief remained with him throughout his distinguished military career.

Had Brigadier Usman survived the war, many believe he would have risen to the highest ranks of the Indian Army. Yet, his legacy transcends military accomplishments. He stands as an enduring symbol of patriotism, secularism and selfless service to the nation.

More than seven decades after his martyrdom, the memory of “Naushera ka Sher” continues to inspire soldiers and civilians alike, reminding us that courage, integrity and loyalty to the nation remain timeless virtues.

— (Ravi Rohmetra is a social worker and freelance writer.)