For all those who have zero clues about who Lt. Ummer Fayaz is, he was an officer in the Indian Army who belonged to Kashmir. He was just like another braveheart in the forces except he was kidnapped and murdered in his hometown by a group of terrorists. The ruthless act left the entire country in shock and the young officer left behind an inconsolable mother, his sisters who doted on him and his relatives. None of them, for a long time, could process what had happened to their beloved ‘sahib Ji’; as his grandfather used to lovingly call him. After overcoming the shock of this valiant officer’s death, the bestselling author Ms Bhaavna Arora decided to write a book about his struggles and his life. The patriot in her worked hard as she spent two years researching and looking for information about our brave lieutenant; travelling to Kashmir, Mhow and other places that held significance in Lt. Ummer’s life. Her hard work culminated in the book, Undaunted Lt Ummer Fayaz of Kashmir. The young officer has epitomized Kashmiriyat in its truest sense, who pursued his dream against all odds. After I finished reading the book along with a box of tissues (it is an extremely emotional memoir), I decided to do what I do best, write about it. Lt Ummer may not be with us, but his memories, his courage, kindness and philosophy of life will stay with us forever. Through this article, I want to talk about the lessons we can learn from this braveheart and his journey.
- You are your only limit.
Even as a young child Ummer was privy to the situation in the Valley and people’s perception of the Indian Army. Despite all that, ever since the age of twelve, he dreamt of donning the olive green uniform. Regardless of all the obstacles, he only dreamt of having those stars on his shoulders instead of a million stars in the sky. Even as his friends discouraged him and poked fun at the organization that protects our nation, his intentions did not deter. After four years of rigorous training at the NDA and the IMA; he fulfilled his dream of becoming an army officer with flying colours.
- Hard work pays off. Every time.
Ummer was a bright student who was consistent with his studies and persevered to shine out in the class. Every teacher adored him, not because he was good in studies but was an all-rounder. Whether it was sports or academics, he took part in everything with diligence. He had to travel for an entire day to submit his NDA form due to the internet shutdown in the Kashmir valley. The NDA has the reputation of being one of the six toughest colleges to get into worldwide. Yet despite the lack of good schools, coaching centres and frequent lockdowns, he was able to clear his NDA exam. He had always believed there isn’t any substitute for hard work and proved it.
- Be fearless in the pursuit of what you truly desire.
It was common knowledge to Lt. Ummer that people in his native place disliked the defence forces and were always in a tiff with them. The attitude people had was radical enough for Lt. Ummer to not disclose his dream to a lot of people for a long time. He knew they wouldn’t approve of his dream to join the Indian Army. Yet, he did not give up on his dreams worked hard day and night. No matter what his friends or the taunts of people said; he remained determined and emerged victorious.
- Your perception shapes your life.
As a child, our brave lieutenant had a rough interaction with an Army troop who had slapped him for not cooperating and just then an officer arrived at the scene and dealt with Ummer. He realized the amount of respect the officer got and the control he had over his people. He was inspired by the officer and asked him how he could become like him; the officer told him to join the National Defence Academy. Since then Ummer didn’t look back and began preparing himself for the prestigious academy. A known militant, Burhan Wani had a similar encounter as a child, but he used that incident to become a terrorist. Ummer chose to see this incident as an inspiration to set a goal for himself and achieve something in life. He always saw the half glass full, no matter the situation; which led him to amass the success he so desired.
- Be open to change.
As a young student, young Ummer had to switch schools due to a lack of facilities in his old school and due to the frequent lockdowns. Even though the class as a whole was shifted to the new place, many of his classmates were apprehensive about the type of teachers they’ll get, the school mates and whether they would be able to adapt to the change. Fourteen-year-old Ummer felt none of that. He told his classmates and friends to not be afraid; instead, embrace the change; view it as a new opportunity and a bundle of possibilities. He emerged as calm during the storm; one of his many attractive qualities. Naturally, everyone there loved him and enjoyed his company.
- Religion becomes disruptive only if you make it.
Since a young age, children are taught about religion and values. Sadly, a lot of Kashmiri families are conditioned into thinking they need to ‘protect’ their religion, which has over the years led to communist ideologies. As for Lt. Fayaz, even as a child he respected all religions and kept an open mind towards the various communities that coexisted in India. When he went to the National Defence Academy, he celebrated all the festivals with his coursemates with vigour. He was the first-ever cadet to request the reading of daily namaz at the academy mosque whilst maintaining the proper discipline that is expected of him. Even while he was fasting for Ramadan, he participated in the cross country run for the spirit of his squadron. He believed in the true purpose; which is to guide mankind.
He was a true gentleman and had qualities that not only made him an exemplary officer but also a socially responsible citizen. His story is truly saddening and tragic. The way students have explained their thought processes to the author reflects the sad reality of the Valley that is supposed to be heaven on earth. Lt. Fayaz was one of the few who dared to dream differently in a world that was surrounded by radical ideologies. His death not only a loss to his family but also a loss to India for we lost a brave son and a great officer on the 10th of May. May his story inspire many young citizens and may his soul rest in peace.
This article is written by Parnika Vaid
