A Kodava Soldier’s Tale – Palachanda Uthappa

Mamatha Subbaiah, CLN’s loyal and proficient stalwart contributor has written a heartfelt account about being an Army Veteran’s proud daughter and the sacrifices and valour that her father endured as a brave soldier of the Armed Forces. There was a time when almost every Okka and for that matter every family had one member in the Armed Forces. As earlier mentioned, it is remarkable that for a community of our size, we have a disproportionate representation in the Armed Forces – more than any other community in the country. We Kodavas are proud of the selfless service rendered and look forward to stories, anecdotes and snippets from all families. We would be honoured and privileged to showcase these stories! – CLN Newsdesk

Many kudos on bringing out the ultimate sacrifice, a legacy of courage, love and duty of the retired solder from Kodagu. Kodavas have a large population of “serving” and “ex- servicemen”, who have served the nation with honour and courage – deserving our respect and appreciation for their sacrifices. They deservedly enjoy the pride and privilege of being honourable ex-servicemen of this great country. These Heroes make a significant impact but for some unknown reason go largely unnoticed, with their efforts sometimes taken for granted.

They are many retired solders who served the nation in lesser known capacities but their efforts are essential and make a significant impact. They are a diverse and proud group of people who have served the nation in various capacities and roles.

I am the proud daughter of Palachanda Uthappa, the soldier who took part in the Indo-China war of 1962, which was a significant conflict in which my father had a challenging experience. To my father’s knowledge, the only other Kodava soldier who fought this was Bayavanda Subbaiah, who unfortunately lost his life. My father served in the army from 1954 to 1970.

The Army was not as well equipped as we are now. During the 1962 war, soldiers had limited access to basic necessities like food and shelter, relatively poor infrastructure, remote areas with inadequate roads and communication networks, harsh weather, limited food and medical supplies. Despite these challenges, the soldiers showed remarkable resilience and bravery.

In those times soldiering was not a meal ticket. It was a calling and an act of devotion beyond anything. My father’s story is not just his alone. They are many such Heroes from Kodagu who demonstrated extraordinary courage for their country and upheld values larger than themselves and gave their all, so that we could live in peace and freedom.

Being a daughter of an Indian Army soldier can be a fulfilling experience filled with pride and valuable lessons. They serve as role models, demonstrating values such as discipline, courage and commitment. I truly wish many soldier’s stories of valour, and a message of resilience, sacrifice and undying love for the nation should be brought out which inspires future generations to stand tall, no matter the odds. Their sacrifice serves as a beacon of valour, reminding us that Heroes don’t seek comfort – they seek honour in protecting their land.

In a previous article of mine I had the privilege of writing about the soul-stirring, identity defining disciplined Kodavamme Balo Nadp. Many Armed Forces personnel took place in the march and it is a testament to our community that the District Administration heaped paeans of praise for the orderly conduct of the procession without a single mishap. Perhaps involving ex-servicemen in positions of responsibility serving the Kodava community would be welcomed given their secular, honest and inclusive experience, which is precisely how they served in the Armed Forces.

Once again, the initiative in bringing out such stories of the soldiers in Kodagu was much needed . They are many such soldiers in Kodagu who need to be recognized and appreciated.