Captain Santhanam Kashinathan SC SM

Captain Santhanam Kashinathan, fondly known as "Kashi," was born on October 28, 1960, into a family with a proud military legacy. As the third of five sons of Major K.S. Santhanam and Smt Alemelu, he grew up in an environment steeped in discipline, patriotism, and service to the nation. From an early age, these values shaped his character, instilling in him a deep sense of duty and leadership. Capt Kashinathan received his early education at Kendriya Vidyalaya, Gill Nagar, Chennai, where he stood out for his sharp intellect, exemplary discipline, and natural leadership qualities. An all-rounder, he actively participated in extracurricular activities, further honing his ability to inspire and lead his peers. His academic journey continued at the prestigious Madras Christian College (MCC), Tambaram—one of India's oldest and most esteemed institutions. At MCC, he excelled not only in academics but also in physical fitness and leadership training, preparing himself for the challenges that lay ahead in his military career.

Inspired by his father’s service and driven by a desire to serve the nation, Capt Kashinathan joined the Indian Army. In 1983, after completing his training at the Officers Training School, he was commissioned into the 4th Battalion of the 3rd Gorkha Rifles. His rigorous training included specialized courses at the Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School, where he excelled in counter-insurgency tactics. His dedication and skill quickly became apparent, leading to deployments in some of the most challenging operational environments. A well-rounded officer, he excelled in academics, sports, and music, demonstrating adaptability and resourcefulness. His ability to learn local languages and immerse himself in the nuances of counter-insurgency warfare proved invaluable. This skill enabled him to build a network of trusted local informants, a crucial element in combating insurgency. His leadership played a pivotal role in Operation Hifazat, a critical mission aimed at neutralizing insurgent activities in the volatile regions of Manipur. 

Manipur Operation : 18 Dec 1985

In December 1985, Captain Santhanam Kashi was serving with the 4/3 Gorkha Rifles, an elite infantry battalion known for its valour and dedication. At the time, his unit was deployed in Manipur, a region fraught with insurgent activities that posed a serious threat to national security. Given the challenging operational environment, the battalion frequently carried out counter-insurgency patrols to maintain stability in the area. On 18 December 1985, Captain Kashi was leading a patrol mission in the Awangkhul region, a dense, hilly, and treacherous terrain that provided a strategic advantage to insurgents. The region was known for its difficult geography, which made tracking and engaging hostile elements an arduous task. However, undeterred by the challenges, Captain Kashi led his troops with courage and vigilance.

As the patrol advanced through the jungle, Captain Kashi suddenly spotted an armed insurgent attempting to escape. Without hesitation, he pursued the threat, fully aware that he might be walking into an ambush. His swift response demonstrated his tactical acumen and commitment to neutralizing threats before they could strike. As he closed in on the insurgent, a fierce exchange of fire ensued. Despite being outnumbered, Captain Kashi held his ground. During the intense firefight, he was shot in the leg, a wound that could have easily incapacitated him. However, displaying extraordinary resilience and determination, he refused to retreat or seek medical aid. Instead, he continued the chase, pushing through excruciating pain with a singular focus—capturing the insurgent. The encounter escalated into a dramatic close-quarters battle, where Captain Kashi, wounded but undeterred, engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the insurgent. The dense jungle provided little room for maneuvering, forcing them into a fierce and desperate struggle for survival.

During the violent clash, Captain Kashi sustained a severe head injury. Despite his worsening condition, he refused to let go of the insurgent, using every ounce of his remaining strength to subdue the enemy. His unwavering resolve and indomitable spirit in those final moments became a true testament to his heroism. Even as his life ebbed away, he did not relinquish his grip, ensuring that his sacrifice was not in vain. His last stand embodied the highest ideals of duty, courage, and self-sacrifice—hallmarks of an exceptional soldier. Captain Santhanam Kashi’s supreme sacrifice went beyond the call of duty. He displayed an unyielding commitment to his mission, prioritizing the safety of his fellow soldiers and the nation above his own life. His actions not only neutralized a significant threat but also set an enduring example of bravery and leadership for future generations of warriors. In recognition of his extraordinary gallantry and selfless devotion, Captain Santhanam Kashi was posthumously awarded the "Shaurya Chakra", one of India’s highest peacetime military honours. 

Captain Santhanam Kashinathan  is survived by his wife Smt Anuradha Rajput.

The citation for the “Shaurya Chakra” awarded to him reads :

After completing Counter Insurgency Jungle Warfare School training, Captain Santhanam Kashinathan had been operating in the insurgency area since June 1983. The officer had shown a remarkable aptitude for conduct of counter-insurgency operation in "Operation Hifazat" area. On 18 December 1985, Captain Santhanam Kashinathan, in search of an insurgent, in Awangkhul, Manipur, received a bullet in his leg. Despite being wounded, in his eagerness to catch the insurgent alive, he rushed forward and in the ensuing scuffle received another bullet in his head and died. Till the end, he held on to the insurgent to resolve this rebellion. Captain Santhanam Kashinathan thus displayed conspicuous courage and laid down his life in supreme sacrifice in the call of duty.

He was awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his act of valour and supreme sacrifice.