The Lion Of Naushera: Honouring Brigadier Mohammad Usman On His Martyrdom Day With Pride

India on Thursday remembered Brigadier Mohammad Usman, MVC, popularly known as the “Lion of Naushera,” on his martyrdom anniversary, honouring one of the nation’s most celebrated military heroes.

His inspiring journey has been vividly chronicled in The Lion of Naushera by Ziya Us Salam and Anand Mishra, published by Bloomsbury.

Born on July 15, 1912, in Bibipur village, now in Uttar Pradesh’s Mau district, Usman grew up in a family devoted to public service.

After studying in Varanasi, he joined the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1932 and received his commission in 1934.

He served with distinction in the 5/10 Baluch Regiment, including deployments on the North-West Frontier and in Burma during the Second World War.

During Partition in 1947, Brigadier Usman rejected offers to join Pakistan, including the reported opportunity to become its Army chief.

He instead chose India, driven by his faith in the country’s pluralistic ideals. After transferring to the Dogra Regiment, he embodied the secular spirit of the Indian Army.

During the 1947-48 Indo-Pak War, Brigadier Usman commanded the 50th Parachute Brigade in Jammu and Kashmir.

Following the capture of Jhangar by Pakistani forces and tribal raiders, he vowed not to sleep on a bed until Indian troops reclaimed the town.

He successfully defended Naushera, inflicted heavy enemy casualties and earned the title ‘Lion of Naushera’. He later fulfilled his pledge by recapturing Jhangar.

On July 3, 1948, Brigadier Usman attained martyrdom after enemy shelling while defending Jhangar.

India posthumously awarded him the Maha Vir Chakra. His state funeral, attended by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, senior ministers and military chiefs, reflected the nation’s immense respect.

His legacy continues to symbolise courage, patriotism, secular values and selfless service.

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