Service No : IC-27373X
Date of Birth : July 29, 1951
Place of birth : Kodagu Dist (Kar)
Service : Army
Last Rank : Major
Unit : 5 Rajput
Arm/Regt : The Rajput Regiment
Operation : Op Pawan
Martyrdom : December 2, 1987
Maj Ranjit Muthana
Maj Ranjit Muthana hailed from Madikeri taluk in the Coorg district of Karnataka, a region renowned for its proud martial tradition. Born on 29 July 1951, he completed his early education at Don Bosco School in Mumbai. From a young age, he aspired to serve the nation in uniform, and this dream continued to guide him through his formative years. With unwavering resolve, he prepared for a career in the Armed Forces and eventually secured admission into the prestigious National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune. He subsequently went to IMA Dehradun for further training. Upon completing his rigorous training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant on 24 December 1972. He joined the illustrious Rajput Regiment—an infantry regiment known for exceptional bravery, a rich legacy of battle honours, and its inspiring motto, “Sarvatra Vijay”, meaning “Victory Everywhere.” The Regiment had participated in all major post–post-Independence wars and was later a prominent part of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) in Sri Lanka.
Over the course of his career, he displayed exceptional professionalism, discipline, and leadership. Serving with his unit, 5 Rajput, he held various assignments across the country, including Nagaland, Palampur, Suratgarh, Banbasa, and eventually Sri Lanka as part of the IPKF. His competence was recognized early, and as a young Captain, he earned the honour of serving as an Instructor at the NDA, shaping and mentoring future military leaders. Amidst his demanding service commitments, Maj Muthana also built a life of personal fulfilment and companionship. On 12 November 1978, he married Ms Geetha Aiyappa, marking the beginning of a new chapter alongside his dedicated service to the nation. Continuing his upward trajectory, he later attended the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) at Wellington—one of the most prestigious military leadership institutions. Upon successful completion, he was appointed Brigade Major of 167 Infantry Brigade, a role he served in with distinction from 1985 to 1987.
Operation Pawan: 02 Dec 1987
The Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) launched its first major offensive on 9 October 1987 after finalizing a multi-pronged operational strategy against the LTTE. The operation, code-named “Op Pawan,” aimed to dismantle the LTTE’s capability in and around Jaffna by targeting its command structure, logistics, and strongholds. A key objective of the plan was the neutralization or capture of the top LTTE leadership, which was expected to render the militant organization directionless and vulnerable to subsequent ground assaults. As part of these operations, the IPKF launched an attack on Jaffna University on 12 October 1987 involving troops from 13 Sikh Light Infantry, 4/5 Gorkha Rifles, and 10 Para. This assault marked a turning point in the operation and resulted in the complete breakdown of relations with the LTTE. Instead of honouring the earlier agreement that required militants to surrender weapons following the induction of Indian forces in August 1987, the LTTE reneged and began a violent offensive against Indian soldiers. By December 1987, the IPKF had secured control over key portions of Jaffna, but scattered resistance, ambushes, and fierce firefights continued across the region. The terrain, combined with the guerrilla-style tactics of the LTTE, made the mission extremely challenging. It was during this turbulent operational phase that Maj Ranjit Muthana displayed extraordinary courage.
On 2 December 1987, despite knowing the risks and the increasing hostility from the LTTE, he volunteered to undertake convoy protection duty beyond his designated area of responsibility. As the column commander of the foot escort accompanying the convoy on the Batticaloa–Colombo route, his task was critical to ensuring the safe passage of men and material. During the movement, intelligence indicated the presence of a hidden consignment of weapons, prompting Maj Muthana and his troops to proceed toward the suspected location. Unbeknownst to them, the group had moved into a well-concealed LTTE hideout. As they advanced, heavily armed militants opened fire from fortified and elevated positions. Taken under sudden and intense fire, the soldiers found themselves surrounded, with the enemy dominating the engagement from multiple directions.
Displaying exemplary presence of mind and leadership, Maj Muthana immediately swung into action. Using his experience and battlefield acumen, he regrouped and directed his troops to retaliate effectively. Despite being vastly outnumbered and facing automatic fire from vantage positions, he continued to inspire and lead from the front. A fierce exchange of fire followed as the troops fought back with determination and courage. In the midst of the battle, Maj Muthana was struck by a direct burst from a medium machine gun that pierced his helmet. He succumbed to his injuries on the battlefield. However, his gallant stand compelled the militants to withdraw and abandon their positions, demonstrating the impact of his leadership and resolve even in the face of overwhelming odds. Maj Ranjit Muthana’s actions were in the finest traditions of the Indian Army—marked by selflessness, courage, and unwavering duty. He made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation in hostile foreign territory, upholding the honour of his regiment and country.
Maj Ranjit Muthana is survived by his wife, Smt Geetha Muthana.
Brig Gangadharan Venu M/I Sqn JAKRIFHonourpoint
2025 at 3:49 pmCapt Ranjit Muthanna was my DivO at NDA Wg Ghorpuri. He left an indelible impression on my impressionable self by his dyamic personality exubering a rare warmth to those under his tutelage. He was smart , eloquent and shrewd in his obeservations .with a rare sense of humour . His observations and guidance at that point have helped me grow in my outlook and military skills . I met him again when he visited NDA . He was destined for greater glories or that was my impression . It was sad to learn about his demise during Op PAWAN . His spirit continues to remain a motivation for me for all time
Harinder Yadav
2025 at 3:49 pmMaj Muthana sacrificed his life for the nation while leading his column through a tough terrain in a hostile environment in Sri Lanka. It was a huge setback for the battalion and took long time to accept this irreparable loss.I was with him at Kiran post till morning on the fateful day. Fortune to have served under him . Perfect example of an officer and a gentleman . I Pay my respectful homage to the noble soul
Maj MS Jamwal Retd
2025 at 3:50 pmStylish Brave Maj Ranjit Muthanna.
It’s Beyond Comprehension
As to why
The Act of Courage & Bravery went Unrecognized
With No Gallantry award Being Conferred on him.
IC 41095A Maj MS Jamwal Retd here.
+919636214303 is my what’s app.
Any Officer
From 5 Rajputana Rifles,
Or
4 Or 25 Rajputana Rifles(Other Rajputana Rifles units in Op Pawan)
Or
Then anyone aware
Kindly update me on my what’s app +919636214303, as to why wasn’t he Decorated with a Gallantry Award despite the act of bravery that recognised on the ‘Honour Point’ beyond doubt.
Dr Sanjiv Lewin
2025 at 3:51 pmJust seen this post online and remember him fondly. He was a young officer under my father Cmde Roland Lewin during his tenure at the NDA Wing Ghorpuri in Pune in the early 1980s. Remember him fondly as he enjoyed playing Tennis taking on his boss on the courts. Will show this site to my father whom I sure will remember him fondly.
Anand Ashiya
2025 at 3:52 pmMy respectful homage to this brave son of our country who laid down his life in serving the nation with such courage . An officer who had served India and never returned home leaves me in debt . A salute to Major Ranjit Muthana from core of my heart for his exemplary service for following the motto of his unit and defending it it until his last battle .
SUSHI KUSHALAPPA.
2025 at 3:53 pmIt was eons ago but I feel it all happened just yesterday. My husband then a Dy Comdt,
BSF, was posted in Chedema,Nagaland.
It was a bolt from the blue when we got The news via army sources of Maj Ranjit Muthanna being martyred in an ambush,by the LTTE in Sri Lanka. It was pai
Shockingly painful as Geetha his wife was
my niece.
We had found Maj Ranjit to be a smart,impressive officer with a pleasant disposition which was just the thing for our
Geetha.They were really complimentary to
each other.
…. .. Careerwise also Ranjit had made a mark .He had a long way to go with a bright future in store.Unfortunately a spray of lead silenced everything.
Ranjith had walked off into
The silent valley leaving behind..a deafening silence & a horde of memories
Which so far Geetha has borne so stoically
& admirably.God bless her.
.Maj Ranjith Muthanna a real Kodava is a standing example of bravery
Courage & loyalty towards country& duty
Which our YOUNG Kodava boys & girls
Should learn to follow.IT IS THE NEED OF THE HOUR BOTH FOR KODAGU& OUR INDIA.
.. Sushi&Mittu .
K G Appaiah
2025 at 3:54 pmIn 1978, we first met Captain Ranjit Muthanna and Geetha Muthanna as a newly married young couple, at one of our common army officer’s house, in Pune. Although we are civilians, we became friends instantly and our friendship just got stronger in the coming years. He was one person who always had a smile on his face and was most loved amongst all our friends. Those few years we spent together in Pune, are the most memorable years of our friendship.
In 1981, we moved to Bangalore. But we continued to be good friends. Just few days before Ranjit Muthanna (Serving Major then) went to Sri Lanka as part of the IPKF operations, he and Geetha Muthanna dined with us. It was such a lovely evening. Unfortunately that was our last meeting with our dearest and closest friend Ranjit.
Even till this day, we continue to cherish our memorable days in Pune and his last dinner with us. May his soul rest in eternal peace for ever. May his bravery be a guiding factor to all young officers, in all disciplines. We are really fortunate to have continued our friendship with Geetha Muthanna. This has ensured that our relationship with Ranjit will always be treasured – Jaggu & Geetha “
Ravi MM
2025 at 3:55 pmHonourpoint is a laudable and an interesting initiative highlighting brave actions by some of our less known heroes. It’s been interesting to read some heroic actions by our men and officers. I was particularly pleased to read about my friend, Maj Ranjit Muthanna. Ranjit and I had met each other in the early 80’s at Pune where he was posted as an instructor in the NDA. We took instant liking to each other and kept in touch thereafter. Though we belong to Kodagu, we joined the forces from different cardinal directions, he from Mumbai and me from Kodagu.
As luck would have it, soon thereafter we got posted to the same formation at Ranchi/Barackpur, I with my battalion, and he as Brigade Major in one of the brigades. We could meet each other quite often and I got to know him more intimately. Ranjit was a brilliant career officer who excelled in every dept., and to top it all he had a pleasing personality. A quick witted Kodava who turned out to be a good friend with credible professional acumen. His wife Geetha also became a good family friend of ours. Our next meeting was at Bangalore RSI in Nov 1987, the day after which he was to leave for Srilanka. That was the last of Ranjit that I got to see, the next was receiving the shocking news of his sad demise. His pleasant personality, cheeky smile which made his profile more interesting kept coming to my mind.
The action of Ranjit which made him succumb to his injuries highlights adequately of the brave officer that he was till the end. His demise has been a definite loss of a brilliant and outstanding officer who would go places. It also has been a loss to the community and the army as a whole.
Mrs Geetha Muthanna lives in Bangalore, a brave wife of the brave officer and a good friend.
Lt General Ravi Eipe (Retd)
2025 at 3:55 pmMy respectful salutes to this brave soldier who laid down his life in operations against the LTTE in keeping with the highest traditions of the Indian Army. A bright officer who would have risen to high ranks in our Army.
Maj Gen. Nanjappa
2025 at 3:56 pmRanjit was a bright and upcoming officer of our regiment and an excellent young leader from the KODAVA Community . His untimely death deprived our KODAVA Community and the army of a potential General.