Colonel Sushil Kumar Sharma’s family legacy is a profound narrative of resilience, dedication, and honor, reflecting the values and sacrifices that have shaped their lives over three generations. Hailing from the modest village of Khajuri in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, the family’s journey from humble beginnings to remarkable achievements is both inspiring and exemplary.

The story begins with Smt. (Late) Jai Raju Devi, a woman of strong character and unwavering commitment, who, along with her husband, Shri (Late) Mata Prasad Sharma, a lower-class farmer and patriot, laid the foundation for a lineage marked by valor and perseverance. Despite their limited resources, including a small farm and two mud rooms, they maintained a deep connection to their traditions. The family deity, ‘Thakur Maharaj,’ continues to be worshipped in their home, and the Kuldevi, Vindhavasini of Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, remains an integral part of their heritage.

The family’s narrative took a significant turn with the second generation. Shri (Late) J.N. Sharma, who began his career as a housekeeper for Smt. (Late) Uma Shankar Munshi, a wealthy Kashmiri Pandit widow, received crucial support, including education, from her. Despite the early responsibilities of supporting his family, Shri J.N. Sharma was appointed as a ‘Peshkaar’ in the Allahabad Civil Court at the tender age of 14. His son, Squadron Leader Ram Narayan Sharma, went on to become a highly decorated officer in the Indian Air Force, honored by Presidents and Prime Ministers for his exceptional service. His first wife, Smt. (Late) Madhuri Sharma, passed away after bearing three daughters, and he later married Mrs. Prabha Sharma during her husband VVIP service tenure has been the right hand of all the 1st ladies of the proud Nation from Gadhani, Bihar. His distinguished service included flying VVIPs globally and participating in major wars and operations.

The third generation is exemplified by Colonel Sushil Kumar Sharma, whose career as an Indian Army veteran reflects his extraordinary commitment and service. With 29 years of operational and educational experience, Colonel Sharma served across the length and breadth of India, from Gujarat and Rajasthan to Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Siachin, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, until his retirement in October 2023. He is an alumnus of K.V. IIT Powai, Mumbai, and holds multiple degrees, including B.Sc., M.Sc. (Tech), M.D.C.S. (Computers), MA (Psychology), MBA (HR), Hotel Management, LLB, and is currently pursuing LLM (Criminal Law) and PhD (Psychology/Education). His service extends beyond the military as he leads the PRABHASTHA Trust, which supports veterans, Veeranganas, Veernaaris, and orphans, and promotes the Indian Armed Forces.

Colonel Sharma’s brother, Anil Kumar Sharma, has made significant strides in the IT sector as an entrepreneur, founding EduTech companies and serving as a former CEO. With degrees in B.Sc., MCA, and MBA (Double), along with various global certifications, Anil Kumar Sharma, alongside his wife, Dr. Deepti Sharma, a senior psychologist and counselor, is committed to aiding low-income students through online coaching and providing consultancy in Vedic astrology and Vaastu Shastra.

This family’s story is a testament to the enduring values of the joint family system, honor, sacrifice, and perseverance. Their legacy reflects the strength and spirit of the nation, and Colonel Sharma’s message underscores the importance of cherishing national values and continuing to inspire future generations with the mantra: Jai Kisan, Jai Jawan, Jai Vigyan, and Jai Amar Jawan Jyoti.

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