Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa, affectionately known as KM Cariappa, was a pioneering leader and a symbol of dedication, discipline, and service to the nation.
He was the first ‘Indian’ commander-in-chief of the Indian Army who took over from Roy Butcher on 15 January, 1949, and the second person to have been conferred the rank of Field Marshal in 1986 after former Army chief Sam Manekshaw.
Born on January 28, 1899, in Shanivarsanthe, Kodagu (Coorg), Karnataka, Cariappa played a pivotal role in shaping the modern Indian Army and became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces.
Born into a Kodava family with a proud military tradition, he completed his early education at Central High School in Madikeri and later studied at Presidency College in Madras (now Chennai).
Inspired by stories of valor from World War I, Cariappa chose to pursue a military career. In 1919, he was among the first Indians selected for training at the Royal Military Academy in Sandhurst, England, and was commissioned into the British Indian Army in 1920.
Cariappa began his career with the 2/88 Carnatic Infantry, later renamed the 1/7 Rajput Regiment. Over the years, he rose steadily through the ranks, gaining extensive experience in diverse military operations.
During World War II, he served in multiple theatres, including the Middle East and Burma (Myanmar). His leadership and tactical skills earned him widespread recognition and numerous promotions.
In 1947, during the Partition of India, Cariappa oversaw the division of the Indian Army between India and Pakistan. Despite the communal tensions and logistical complexities of the period, he ensured a smooth transition with minimal disruption.
On January 15, 1949, he made history by becoming the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, succeeding General Roy Bucher. His appointment marked the end of British control over the Indian military and symbolized India’s sovereignty and independence.
As Commander-in-Chief, Cariappa emphasized discipline, modernization, and self-reliance in the armed forces. He played a crucial role in fostering unity and integration within the Army, especially vital in the aftermath of Partition.
He also contributed significantly during the first Indo-Pak war (1947–1948), ensuring the successful defense of Jammu and Kashmir. Field Marshal Cariappa’s life remains an enduring inspiration, reflecting courage, discipline, and dedication to duty.
A Father’s Principle: Standing by Duty During the 1965 War
Field Marshal Cariappa’s life remains an enduring inspiration, symbolising courage, discipline and dedication to duty.
During the 1965 India-Pakistan war, Field Marshal KM Cariappa faced a deeply personal test. His son, Squadron Leader KC Cariappa of the Indian Air Force, was captured by Pakistan during a combat mission.
The news reached India amid heightened national anxiety, but Cariappa’s response reflected his unwavering commitment to military principles.
Pakistan’s President Ayub Khan, who had earlier served under Cariappa, reportedly sent a message offering the release of his son as a special gesture. Cariappa, however, declined the offer, stating that his son should be treated like any other prisoner of war and that no exception should be made due to his position or rank.
By doing so, he reinforced the Army’s core values, that all soldiers’ lives and dignity are equal, and service to the nation comes before personal relationships.
His decision sent a powerful message within the military ranks: even the nation’s top military leader would not bend rules for family. This incident later became part of military lore, frequently cited as an example of ethical leadership and integrity.
After retiring in 1953, Cariappa continued serving the nation as High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand, strengthening India’s diplomatic ties.
In 1986, he was conferred the rank of Field Marshal, the highest in the Indian Army, becoming only the second Indian to receive this honor, after Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
Known for his integrity, simplicity, and unwavering commitment, Cariappa emphasized the apolitical nature of the armed forces and upheld the highest standards of professionalism.
He passed away on May 15, 1993, in Bengaluru, leaving behind a legacy of exemplary leadership and patriotism. In India, January 15, the day he became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief, is celebrated as Army Day, honoring his lifelong contributions to the nation.
