Vikram Batra was an Indian Army officer and national hero best known for his exceptional bravery during the 1999 Kargil War. Honored posthumously with the Param Vir Chakra—India’s highest gallantry award—Captain Vikram Batra’s legacy continues to inspire generations with his courage, patriotism, and immortal words: “Yeh Dil Maange More!”
Born into a middle-class Punjabi family, Batra grew up with a strong sense of duty, discipline, and ambition. He was a natural leader, participating in NCC, excelling in academics, and later earning a Master’s in English before pursuing his ultimate dream of joining the Indian Army. He was commissioned as a lieutenant in 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, where he quickly stood out as a fearless and dedicated officer.
Captain Batra’s defining moment came during the Kargil conflict, when he led a daring mission to recapture Point 5140. Under heavy enemy fire and adverse conditions, Batra and his men successfully neutralized Pakistani positions. His radio message to command—“Yeh Dil Maange More”—became an iconic phrase reflecting the undying spirit of India’s armed forces. He later volunteered for another critical mission to capture Point 4875, where he was martyred while rescuing an injured comrade, displaying unmatched valor.
Even after more than two decades, his story is celebrated in films, books, and public memory, most recently brought to life by actor Sidharth Malhotra in the film Shershaah. Captain Vikram Batra is not just remembered as a war hero but as a symbol of youthful heroism, unshakeable commitment, and selfless sacrifice for the nation.
Personal Life
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Original/Real Name | Vikram Batra |
| Other/Nickname | Luv (nickname at home), Shershaah (code name) |
| Profession/Occupation | Indian Army Officer |
| Birthplace | Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Age | 24 (at the time of death in 1999) |
| Date of Birth | 9 September 1974 |
| Hometown | Palampur, Himachal Pradesh |
| Caste/Religion | Hindu Rajput |
| Zodiac sign/Sun sign | Virgo |
| Current career status | Deceased (1999) |
Physical Appearance
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Height (Centimeters) | 170 cm (5’7”) |
| Weight (Kilograms) | Approx. 60-65 kg |
| Body Measurements | Athletic build |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye’s Color | Dark Brown |
Family Relatives & Siblings
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Father’s name | Girdhari Lal Batra (School Principal) |
| Mother’s name | Kamal Kanta Batra (School Teacher) |
| Brother’s name | Vishal Batra (Twin Brother) |
| Sister’s name | Two elder sisters (names not publicly known) |
Marital Status Affairs Boyfriends Kids & Relationship
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Girlfriend | Dimple Cheema (rumored, long-time partner) |
| Dating | Dimple Cheema |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Spouse/Husband | N/A |
| Son | N/A |
| Daughter | N/A |
Education Qualification and Schooling/College
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| School | DAV Public School, Palampur |
| College/ University | DAV College, Chandigarh; Panjab University |
| Educational Qualification | M.A. in English; Cleared CDS Exam |
Controversies
Captain Vikram Batra led a life of honor and integrity. There were no controversies associated with him during or after his lifetime. His legacy remains untarnished and revered.
Favorite Things and Likes & Dislikes
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Favorite Food | Punjabi cuisine |
| Favorite Movie | Border (1997) |
| Favorite Actor | Amitabh Bachchan |
| Favorite Actress | Not Known |
| Favorite Color | Olive green (army uniform) |
| Favorite Designer | N/A |
| Favorite Destination | Mountains of Himachal Pradesh |
| Favorite Cafe | N/A |
| Favorite daily wear brand | N/A |
| Favorite Book | Military and inspirational biographies |
| Favorite Athlete | Not Known |
Money/Net Worth
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Salary | Indian Army Officer salary |
| Net Worth | N/A (sacrificed life in service) |
Contact Information
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Official Website | N/A |
| E-Mail Address | N/A |
| Phone Number | N/A |
| House Address | Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, India |
Social Media
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Wikipedia | Vikram Batra |
| N/A | |
| N/A | |
| N/A |
Personal Quote:
“Yeh Dil Maange More!”
Early Life and Career:
Born on 9 September 1974 in the scenic town of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Vikram Batra was the son of a school principal and a school teacher. From a young age, he exhibited leadership qualities, a strong sense of discipline, and a deep love for his country. He was an avid sports enthusiast and excelled academically, participating actively in the National Cadet Corps (NCC).
After completing his Master’s in English from Panjab University, he cleared the Combined Defence Services (CDS) Examination and was commissioned into the Indian Army in 1997. Assigned to the 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, he quickly established himself as a committed and fearless officer.
His heroism during the 1999 Kargil War catapulted him into national recognition. In two crucial operations—first at Point 5140 and later at Point 4875—Captain Batra’s leadership turned the tide of battle. His final act of valor, rescuing a fellow soldier under heavy fire, led to his martyrdom but cemented his place in Indian military history forever.
Current Life/Events:
Although Captain Batra passed away in July 1999, his legacy continues to shape the narrative of patriotism in India. In 2021, his story was immortalized in the film Shershaah, where actor Sidharth Malhotra portrayed him and Kiara Advani played his partner, Dimple Cheema. Schools, roads, and institutions have been named in his honor, and every year, tributes pour in on Kargil Vijay Diwas to remember his extraordinary sacrifice.
Facts: Here’s some interesting lesser known facts about Vikram Batra
- Vikram Batra had a twin brother, Vishal Batra, who works in the corporate sector.
- He was affectionately called “Luv” by his family, while his brother was “Kush.”
- He earned his green belt in Karate and represented his school in national competitions.
- He once fought off a group of men harassing a girl while studying in Chandigarh, showcasing his courage even before the army.
- He was deeply inspired by the Bollywood war film Border and often talked about the honor of dying for the country.
- His code name “Shershaah” was assigned during the Kargil War for mission communication.
- He was known for his warm personality, leadership, and unwavering positivity, even during high-risk operations.
- His relationship with Dimple Cheema remained strong, and she chose to stay unmarried in his memory.
- Posthumously promoted from Lieutenant to Captain.
- His last words before being fatally hit were, “Jai Mata Di!” as he pushed his comrade to safety.
