The translation of Param Vir Chakra is the "Wheel of the Ultimate Brave," and this accolade is conferred for the "most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy." Up until March 7, 2024, the medal has been awarded 21 times, with 14 of those instances being posthumous honors. Among the 21 awardees, 20 have hailed from the Indian Army, with the lone exception being from the Indian Air Force. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
The medal is crafted as a circular bronze disc measuring 35 millimeters in diameter. On its front side, the National Emblem of India takes center stage within a raised circle, encircled by four representations of the vajra, the legendary weapon of Indra, the ancient Vedic king of the gods. This imagery commemorates the sacrifice of Rishi Dadhichi, who offered his bones to create the vajra, ultimately used to defeat the demon Vritra. Suspended from a straight-swiveling suspension bar, the reverse side features two inscriptions encircled by lotus flowers within a plain center. The words "Param Vir Chakra" are inscribed in both Hindi and English. A purple ribbon, measuring 32 millimeters in length, adorns the Param Vir Chakra, completing its distinguished appearance.
Recipients:
The Param Vir Chakra has been conferred 21 times, with 14 of the awards being posthumous. Notably, 16 of these acts of valor were during Indo-Pakistani conflicts. Among the recipients, 20 have hailed from the Indian Army, while one has been from the Indian Air Force. The Grenadiers hold the distinction of receiving the highest number of Param Vir Chakras, with three awards. Additionally, various Gorkha Rifle regiments have received three awards collectively, with the 1st, 8th, and 11th Gorkha Rifle regiments each having one PVC recipient. As of 7 March 2024, Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously in 1971, remains the sole Indian Air Force officer honored with this medal. Among the recipients, Subedar Major Bana Singh, Subedar Sanjay Kumar, and Subedar Yogendra Singh Yadav stand as the only living awardees. Below is the list of all the braves who have received the Param Veer Charka:
At Trunk Story, we've embarked on a mission to pay tribute to the valor of these 21 brave souls through our 'VEER' t-shirt, where 'VEER' signifies bravery in Hindi. The design proudly showcases the names of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees. Join us in honoring their legacy by wearing this symbolic t-shirt with pride. Scroll down to place your order for the 'VEER' t-shirt. Jai Hind!
