Sirijap - The Gorkha Spirit
Major Dhan Singh Thapa - Captured but Unbroken
Major Dhan Singh Thapa defended Sirijap against massive Chinese attacks. When his position was overrun, he fought hand-to-hand, then led survivors in a counterattack. Captured, presumed dead, he survived Chinese POW camps and returned home - one of the few living PVC recipients of 1962.
"Jai Mahakali, Ayo Gorkhali!"
Of all the battle cries in the world, few strike more terror into enemies than the Gorkha war cry:
"Jai Mahakali, Ayo Gorkhali!" ("Victory to the Goddess Mahakali, the Gorkhas are here!")
This cry has echoed across battlefields for over two centuries - from the hills of Nepal to the trenches of World War I, from the deserts of North Africa to the frozen heights of the Himalayas. When a Gorkha draws his kukri and raises this cry, he is announcing that retreat is not an option.
On October 20, 1962, at a remote outpost called Sirijap in Ladakh, Major Dhan Singh Thapa of the 1/8 Gorkha Rifles would add another chapter to this legendary tradition.
The Outpost at Sirijap
Sirijap was one of several forward posts established under India's 'Forward Policy' in Ladakh. It sat at over 14,000 feet, near the Chinese-claimed Aksai Chin plateau. The terrain was stark - rocky, frozen, with little cover.
Major Dhan Singh Thapa commanded the post with a small force of Gorkha soldiers. Their mission was to maintain Indian presence and observe Chinese movements.
But on October 20, 1962, observation turned to combat.
The Chinese Onslaught
The Chinese launched their offensive simultaneously across the entire frontier. At Sirijap, the attack came with overwhelming force.
| Factor | Indian Position | Chinese Attack |
|---|---|---|
| Troops | Small garrison | Multiple companies |
| Artillery | None | Mortars and mountain guns |
| Terrain advantage | Defensive positions | Superior numbers for assault |
| Reserves | None | Continuous reinforcements |
The Chinese had planned meticulously. They knew exactly where Indian posts were and attacked them simultaneously to prevent mutual support. Sirijap was isolated - help could not come.
The First Defense
When the Chinese assault began, Major Thapa organized his defense with the calm professionalism that marked Gorkha officers. He positioned his men, ensured ammunition was distributed, and prepared for the attack.