A new painting in the Indian Army Chief’s lounge, replacing the iconic image of the 1971 Bangladesh war surrender, has sparked discontent among military veterans. The lounge, a space where the Army Chief hosts visiting dignitaries, now features a painting titled Karam Kshetra – Field of Deeds, created by Lt. Col. Thomas Jacob of the 28 Madras regiment.
The New Artwork: A Modern Narrative
Army sources explain that the painting aims to depict the Indian Army as a “guardian of Dharma,” representing justice and the protection of the nation’s core values. The artwork highlights the Army’s evolution into a technologically advanced and integrated force, blending ancient Indian philosophical wisdom with modern military might.
Set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, the painting showcases the Pangong Tso lake in Eastern Ladakh on the right and iconic symbols like Garuda, Krishna’s chariot, and Chanakya on the left. It also incorporates modern military assets such as tanks, all-terrain vehicles, patrol boats, indigenous Light Combat Helicopters, and Apache attack helicopters.
“This painting symbolizes a country with a rich civilization that has always stood for righteous causes and just use of force,” Army sources said. “It portrays an Army that draws inspiration from the teachings of the Mahabharata and the strategic insights of Chanakya, embodying leadership, diplomacy, and modern warfare.”
The painting is seen as part of a larger effort to integrate India’s ancient strategic philosophies into contemporary military frameworks. This initiative seeks to establish an “indigenous strategic vocabulary” rooted in Indian philosophy and culture while highlighting the Army’s readiness to face future challenges.
Veterans Question the Change
The decision to replace the iconic 1971 surrender image has not been without criticism. The replaced photograph captured Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi of the Pakistan Army signing the instrument of surrender before Lt. Gen. J.S. Aurora of the Indian Army, marking the end of the Bangladesh Liberation War. This moment not only symbolized the birth of Bangladesh but also represented India’s first major military victory in over a millennium.
On social media, retired military officials voiced their concerns. Former Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen. H.S. Panag commented, “The photo/painting symbolising India’s first major military victory in 1,000 years has been removed by a hierarchy which believes that mythology, religion, and a fragmented feudal past will inspire future victories.”
Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Singh (Retd.) echoed the sentiment, questioning the intent behind the move. “Dignitaries and military heads of other countries meet the Army Chief here and see the symbol of the GREATEST EVENT IN INDIA’s & Indian Army’s history. Now, this ham-handed effort—at what?”
Another veteran lamented, “We are hitting the ‘absolute pits.’”
Balancing Legacy and Modernity
The move appears to be part of a broader strategy to emphasize India’s ancient wisdom and cultural heritage alongside its modern military capabilities. However, the removal of the 1971 surrender image, a moment deeply entrenched in India’s military history, raises questions about how the Army balances its historical legacy with the evolving narrative it wishes to project.
While the new painting aims to reflect the Army’s readiness for future challenges and its alignment with national values, veterans argue that the iconic image of 1971 serves as an irreplaceable reminder of the Army’s sacrifices and achievements. For now, the debate over this change underscores the delicate interplay between tradition and modernity in shaping the Indian Army’s identity.
Source: The Hindu
