The Unforgettable Story of the Sinking of INS Khukri: A Tale of Courage and Sacrifice

War is often described as a theater of heroism and tragedy, where both glory and despair find their place. One such poignant episode in the history of the Indian Navy is the sinking of INS Khukri. This chilling tale of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie will forever be etched in the hearts of those who witnessed it, leaving an indelible mark on the annals of Indian naval history.

The Birth of INS Khukri

INS Khukri, named after a formidable Indian dagger, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 23rd June 1969, with Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla as its commanding officer. The Khukri was a renowned British-built frigate of the 'Blackwood' class, known for its versatile capabilities and unwavering performance. Despite being built during World War II, the ship's impeccable design and technological advancements made it a formidable force.

The Sinking of INS Khukri: Survivor's Stories: Survivors Stories

by Czeslaw Tubilewicz(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1136 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages

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Over the years, the INS Khukri grew to become one of the most trusted vessels in the Indian Navy fleet. Its bravery was tested in numerous operations, including patrolling, anti-aircraft escort, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface vessel engagement. The reputation of the Khukri and its crew as masters of the sea began to flourish.

The Unfateful Night

It was a dark and stormy night on 9th December 1971, during the Indo-Pak war. INS Khukri, along with its sister-ship INS Kirpan, was assigned the task of protecting the essential convoy consisting of merchant ships. The waters around the Diu headland were treacherous, but the crew of the Khukri was undeterred. They knew their responsibility was paramount, even in the face of danger.

At around 5 PM, two torpedoes launched from the Pakistani submarine PNS Hangor ripped through the calm ocean, both finding their mark on the Khukri's starboard side. Chaos ensued on the ship as it began to tilt precariously, with water gushing inside. The brave sailors on board sprang into action, striving to save their fellow crew members amidst the chaos and rapidly deteriorating conditions.

The Heroic Battle

The ship's commanding officer, Captain Mulla, displayed extraordinary leadership skills, ensuring that the crew remained focused on their mission. Even as the Khukri struggled against the onslaught of the unforgiving sea, Captain Mulla defiantly vowed to fight until the last breath. He pushed his crew to escape the sinking vessel, while he stayed back, sacrificing his life for the safety of his men.

The crew fought valiantly, desperately trying to save their comrades. Minutes turned into hours as they battled the strong currents and inch-by-inch, the Khukri sank deeper into the Arabian Sea. The ship's wreckage disappeared into the depths of the ocean, taking with it the hopes and dreams of the courageous sailors who fought alongside each other till the end.

Survival Amidst Tragedy

Three hours passed before rescue arrived, but by then, the brave crew of the Khukri had been battling the odds without respite. Sadly, only 61 men out of the 176 onboard the ship survived that fateful night. The cold, stormy waters claimed the lives of numerous brave souls who had sworn to protect their country at any cost.

The 61 survivors were rescued by INS Kirpan and Pakistani vessel PNS Khaibar, both of which had been witness to the Khukri's fierce battle of survival. The survivors recounted tales of astonishing bravery, resilience, and selflessness, highlighting the exceptional camaraderie that existed within the crew of the Khukri.

Legacy and Remembrance

The sinking of INS Khukri left an indelible mark on the Indian Navy and the nation as a whole. The bravery exhibited by the crew members in the face of extreme adversity stands as a testament to the grit and determination of Indian soldiers. Their selflessness and sacrifice, epitomized by Captain Mulla, will always be remembered.

Every year, on 9th December, the Indian Navy pays homage to the gallant souls who lost their lives in service of the nation. The sacrifice of the Khukri's crew acts as a constant reminder of the valor and dedication that continue to form the bedrock of the Indian Armed Forces.

The sinking of INS Khukri remains a chilling reminder of the horrors of war and the boundless courage and sacrifice displayed by Indian soldiers. The heroism of Captain Mulla and his crew will forever echo through the ages, inspiring generations to come. Their unwavering commitment to duty and their unwavering spirit in facing adversity truly make them the epitome of heroism.

As we honor the memory of the brave souls who perished on that fateful night, let us never forget their sacrifice and ensure that their legacy lives on, epitomizing the valor of the Indian Navy.

The Sinking of INS Khukri: Survivor's Stories: Survivors Stories

by Czeslaw Tubilewicz(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1136 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	176 pages

FREE

9 December 1971. 8.45 p.m. Torpedoed by a Pakistani submarine, the INS Khukri sank within minutes. Along with the ship, 178 sailors and 18 officers made the supreme sacrifice. Last seen calmly puffing on his cigarette, Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla, captain of the Khukri, chose to go down with his ship. This defining moment of the 1971 war between India and Pakistan is the basis of Major General Ian Cardozo's attempt to understand what happened that day and why. Major General Cardozo brings fresh insight into the hellish ordeal by including the heartfelt accounts of the survivors and of the members of their families. These accounts transform the stereotypical understanding of the incident; they also supplement it. We glimpse fear, trauma and death at first hand. In the annals of war writing, General Cardozo humanizes this cataclysmic event as never before.