In a poignant tribute to bravery and sacrifice, Indian Army Havildar VV Subbaiah was laid to rest with full military honors at his native Narpala village in Anantapur district. The ceremony took place after Subbaiah lost his life in a landmine explosion while on patrol in the Poonch sector along the Line of Control (LoC).
Havildar Subbaiah, hailing from Raavipadu village in Prakasam district, showed remarkable heroism in his final moments. Upon realizing he had stepped on a landmine, he immediately shouted a warning to his 30 teammates, urging them to “Go back!” Thanks to his quick thinking, his comrades were able to retreat to safety moments before the deadly blast claimed his life.
The soldier’s mortal remains were brought back to Narpala in the early hours, greeted with a heartfelt reception from a large gathering of locals. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as the crowd escorted the army vehicle, chanting slogans such as ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Amar Jawan Amar Rahe,’ expressing their solidarity and respect for the fallen hero.
The final rites took place in a solemn setting within his family’s agricultural field, where his mother, Galemma, wife Leela, son, daughter, and other relatives gathered to say their goodbyes. An air of grief enveloped the event as family members struggled with their loss, yet the pride in Subbaiah’s bravery was palpable.
Army officials were present to pay their last respects, offering a final salute and presenting the National Flag and military insignias to Subbaiah’s wife. This act underscored the country’s recognition of his sacrifice and the valor exhibited in service to the nation. The ceremony not only celebrated Havildar Subbaiah’s life but also served as a powerful reminder of the courage displayed by soldiers serving in challenging terrains and circumstances.
