Despite Losing Her Father, Fourth-Generation Soldier Captain Samira Buttar Chooses Duty; Her Steps Echo All the Way to Pakistan

Republic Day 2026: Captain Samira Buttar – “My father must be encouraging me from above, just as he always did,” says Captain Samira Buttar, daughter of Colonel Sarabjeet Singh Buttar. Her words reflect both love for her country and a deep bond with her father. Despite grappling with the grief of losing him, Captain Samira remains steadfast in her duty, leading the Integrated Operations Center contingent for the special tableau of Operation Sindur at the Republic Day parade.

Leading with Duty Amid Personal Loss
For Captain Samira and her family, this is a moment of personal sorrow. She recently lost her father, Colonel Sarabjeet Singh Buttar. Even while mourning, she has chosen to lead her team with unwavering commitment. On Republic Day, along with her command, she carries the memory of her father, the pain of his absence, and an unbreakable sense of duty. Her actions embody the army principle of “Service Before Self.”

“Being the Parade Commander is a Tribute to My Father”
Captain Samira says that leading a contingent at the national celebration is itself a tribute to her father. In an interview with UI, she remarked, “Being the commander of a team in the Republic Day parade is my way of paying homage to my father.”

“My Father is Encouraging Me from Above”
Her words resonate with both her patriotic zeal and the grief of losing her father. Since her family cannot attend the parade due to their mourning, Captain Samira added, “I am confident that my father is encouraging me from above, as he always did.”

A Fourth-Generation Soldier
Hailing from Chandigarh, Captain Samira carries forward a proud family tradition of military service. She is the fourth generation in her family to serve in the Indian Army. She is the daughter of Colonel Sarabjeet Singh Buttar (retired), granddaughter of Brigadier Sampuran Singh Buttar (retired), recipient of the Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra, and great-granddaughter of Risaldar Major Ratan Singh. Inspired by her forefathers, she decided early in life to pursue a career in the armed forces, fulfilling a childhood dream.

Her Steps Resonate Beyond Borders
All eyes will be on the Operation Sindur tableau during the 77th Republic Day parade, which commemorates India’s decisive response to Pakistan in 2025. Captain Samira stated, “Leading the contingent representing Operation Sindur’s success is a dream for any officer.” She further explained, “The Integrated Operations Center tableau reflects national unity, strong strategic will, the contribution of our armed forces, and the support of Indian citizens. It symbolizes our preparedness, strength, and the self-reliant Indian Army.”