Nupur Jha
Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, commonly known as Sam Manekshaw, served as the eighth Chief of Army Staff in the Indian Army and is the first and only Field Marshal. Manekshaw is a legendary personality for his patriotism, leadership, charm, and spirit to this date.
Sam played a pivotal role in shaping the military and the success of the Indian Army. He was commissioned into the British Indian Army before independence. Manekshaw served in several wars, including World War II and the Burma Campaign.
Post-independence in 1947, Manekshaw continued his service to the country and the Indian Army. His notable contribution during the Indo-Pak War in 1971 showcased his leadership and strategic prowess. Manekshaw was known for his no-nonsense approach and unwavering leadership, along with his magnetic charisma, earning him immense love and respect.
Sam Manekshaw’s life and career have much to offer for today’s youth. From his discipline and commitment to leadership, here are the top 5 quotes that will empower and guide him to success.
“If leaders are not born, can we make leaders? And my answer is yes. Give me a man or a woman with common sense who is not an idiot, and I assure you I can make a leader out of him or her. “
Manekshaw believed that true leadership is not limited to a few people. It’s not a gift from a God but a skill that can be cultivated in anyone, regardless of who they are. However, individuals should possess common sense, willingness, and rational thinking to acquire this skill. He valued practicality over mere intelligence.
“You should have to fight and fight to win. There is no room for the losers. If you lose, don’t come back. You will have disgraced the country, and the country won’t accept you. “
Manekshaw strongly believed in being determined and not giving up. He encouraged people to face and overcome challenges in life. According to him, quitting is not the right answer; only weak people choose that path. He believed everyone to aim higher, leaving behind half-hearted efforts and mediocrity.
“Professional knowledge and professional competence are the main attributes of leadership. ”
An essential lesson for today’s youth, Manekshaw believed that people should build a foundation of competence and knowledge. This forms a sturdy base for leadership. You should be knowledgeable and skilled in your work, always striving to improve yourself.
“‘Yes man’ is a dangerous man. He is a menace. He will go very far. He can become a minister, a secretary, or a Field Marshall, but he can never become a leader nor be respected.”
Manekshaw was known to be an opinionated and strong-headed person. He emphasized the importance of independent thinking in individuals. The Field Marshal also encouraged young people to express their opinions, thoughts, and concerns openly, regardless of who is in front of them. He warned against being a ‘yes man’ and blindly following superiors without asking questions. Manekshaw stated that such a person can never experience personal growth or gain respect from others.
“Professional knowledge has to be acquired the hard way. It is a continuous study, and you never acquire it in today’s fast-moving technological world that you are living in. “
Sam Manekshaw quotes a lesson that can be excellent for the youth. He emphasized the importance of learning and self-improvement throughout his career. However, in this quote, he mentions that growth and learning cannot be one-time achievements. To truly grow and learn, a person should do it continuously. The constant effort to update and keep yourself ready to learn is key to gaining professional knowledge.
