A Legacy of Resilience and Honor: The Inspiring Journey of Colonel Sharma’s Family
Colonel Sharma’s family history is a poignant illustration of resilience, dedication, and honor, spanning three generations from humble beginnings in the village of Khajuri in Mirzapur. The story begins with Smt. Late Jai Raju Devi, a woman from Khajuri, Uttar Pradesh, married to Late Mata Prasad Sharma, a lower-class farmer and patriot. Despite their modest means, including a small farm and two mud rooms where their family deity, Thakur Maharaj, was worshipped, they maintained a strong connection to their traditions. Their Kuldevi, Vindhavasini of Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, remains an integral part of their family heritage.
The second generation of the family features Shri (Late) J.N. Sharma, who worked as a housekeeper for Smt. (Late) Uma Shankar Munshi, a wealthy Kashmiri Pandit widow, in 1942. Known affectionately as “BibiJi,” she provided crucial support, including shelter and education, to both J.N. Sharma and Colonel Sharma’s father. J.N. Sharma, married to Smt. (Late) Gunvanti Devi, had three sons (one surviving) and a daughter (alive). Despite his early responsibilities, J.N. Sharma was appointed as a Peshkar in the Allahabad Civil Court at the age of 14, supporting his siblings and his widowed mother. Colonel Sharma’s father, Sqn. Ldr. Ram Narayan Sharma, became a highly decorated senior Indian Air Force officer, recognized by Presidents and Prime Ministers of India. He married Smt. (Late) Madhuri Sharma, who passed away desiring a son after having three daughters. He later married Mrs. Prabha Sharma from Gadhani, Bihar, and served in the VVIP Squadron, Delhi Cantt, flying Presidents and Prime Ministers around the globe. His distinguished service included participation in all major wars and operations until his retirement in 1993.
The third generation is marked by Colonel S.K. Sharma, a decorated Indian Army veteran with an extensive educational background. He studied at K.V. IIT Powai, Mumbai, and holds numerous degrees including B.Sc., M.Sc. (Tech), M.D.C.S. (Computers), MA (Psychology), MBA (HR), a degree in Hotel Management, LLB, and is currently pursuing an LLM (Criminal Law) and a PhD (Psychology/Education). With 29 years of distinguished military service, Colonel Sharma has served across multiple Indian borders and is associated with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, anti-crime organizations, and various educational and charitable institutions. He also leads PRABHASTHA Trust, which encourages Indian youth to join the Armed Forces, and works as a freelance journalist.
Anil Kumar Sharma, Colonel Sharma’s brother, has made significant contributions as an entrepreneur, founding EduTech companies and serving as a former CEO in the IT sector. His academic credentials include degrees in B.Sc., MCA, MBA, and various professional certifications. Anil Kumar Sharma is committed to aiding low-income students through online coaching and offers consultancy in Vedic astrology and Vaastu.
His family story is a tribute to the joint family system and an embodiment of unwavering commitment to familial duties. Their legacy of honor, sacrifice, and perseverance upholds the values and traditions passed down through generations. It is a reminder of the nation’s greatness and the enduring spirit of its people.
His message to his fellow soldiers and citizens is clear: our legacy will continue to inspire even after we are gone. Cherishing our nation and its values remains paramount.
********************