Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Oct 17: Garodi Thimappa Alva, a veteran who served in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, passed away at his residence in Lohith Nagar, Mangaluru, on October 16 evening. He was 85.

Family members have informed that his mortal remains will be donated to K S Hegde Hospital, Derlakatte.

Recently, Alva’s war memoir titled Garodi Maneyinda Sena Garadige (From Garodi House to the Army Camp) was published, narrating his remarkable life journey.

Born into an agrarian family in Tulunadu, Alva joined the Indian Army as a young man and participated in the 1971 war. During a mission in a helicopter to a war camp, his aircraft came under attack from Pakistani forces near Chittagong. He miraculously survived after crash-landing in the forest and battling against all odds — an experience he later chronicled in his book.

The 1971 Indo-Pak war was a defining moment in Indian history, marking a resounding victory for the nation. Under the leadership of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, with the strategic brilliance of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and the courage of thousands of soldiers, India emerged as a global symbol of democracy and military resolve.

Garodi Thimappa Alva, who had also participated in all three wars India fought against Pakistan, was among those who brought pride to the nation through his service and sacrifice.