“Legacy of Valor: The Inspiring Journey of Colonel Sushil Kumar Sharma and His Family”
Colonel Sushil Kumar Sharma’s family history is a powerful tale of resilience, dedication, and honor, spanning three generations. Originating from the humble village of Khajuri in Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, the Sharma family has risen from modest beginnings to achieve remarkable success, embodying the values and sacrifices that define their legacy. The story begins with Smt. (Late) Jai Raju Devi, a woman of strong character and unwavering commitment, and her husband, Shri (Late) Mata Prasad Sharma, a lower-class farmer and devoted patriot. Despite their limited resources, including a small farm and two mud rooms, they nurtured a deep connection to their traditions. The family deity, ‘Thakur Maharaj,’ is still worshipped in their home, and the Kuldevi, Vindhavasini of Vindhyachal, Mirzapur, remains a significant part of their heritage. The family’s narrative took a transformative turn with the second genera[1]tion. 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 from her, including an education. Despite the early respon[1]sibility of supporting his family, Shri J.N. Sharma was appointed as a ‘Pesh[1]kaar’ in the Allahabad Civil Court at the young age of 14. His son, Squadron Leader Ram Narayan Sharma, went on to become a highly decorated officer in the Indian Air Force, recognized by Presidents and Prime Ministers for his exemplary service. Squadron Leader Sharma’s first wife, Smt. (Late) Madhu[1]ri Sharma, passed away after giving birth to three daughters, and he later married Mrs. Prabha Sharma. During his service, he played a vital role in flying VVIPs globally and participating in major wars and operations, earning him widespread respect. The third generation of the Sharma family is epitomized by Colonel Sushil Kumar Sharma, whose distinguished career in the Indian Army reflects his extraordinary commitment and service. With 29 years of operational and educational experience, Colonel Sharma served across India, from Gujarat and Rajasthan to Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Siachen, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, until his retirement in October 2023. An alumnus of K.V. IIT Powai, Mumbai, Colonel Sharma 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 an LLM (Criminal Law) and a Ph.D. (Psychol[1]ogy/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 also made significant strides, particularly in the IT sector as an entrepreneur. He founded EduTech companies and served 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 dedicated 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 emphasizes the importance of upholding national values and inspiring future generations with the mantra: Jai Kisan, Jai Jawan, Jai Vigyan, and Jai Amar Jawan Jyoti.
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