Despite Losing Her Father, Fourth-Generation Soldier Captain Samira Buttar Chooses ‘Duty’—Her Steps to Echo Even Across Borders

New Delhi: “My father must be cheering me from above, just as he always did,” said Captain Samira Buttar, daughter of Colonel Sarabjit Singh Buttar, expressing a deep blend of love for her country and remembrance of her father. Even in the grief of losing her father, she remains steadfast in her duty, leading the team for the special tableau of Operation Sindoor at the Republic Day parade.

As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, the sound of applause will resonate across the nation while Captain Samira Buttar marches forward on Kartavya Path, commanding her squad with precision. The rhythmic echo of her steps will convey to neighboring nations that the new India is strong and resolute. Her contingent represents the Integrated Operation Center, showcasing the success of Operation Sindoor. Alongside her, the memory of her father and her unwavering sense of duty will be vividly visible—an inspiring story for the daughters of India.

Grief Amid Duty
The loss of Colonel Sarabjit Singh Buttar has been a deeply emotional period for Captain Samira and her family. Yet, despite personal grief, she chose to lead her team on Republic Day. The parade will witness not just her command, but also the memory of her father, the sorrow of his absence, and her relentless dedication to duty. Her actions epitomize the army’s principle of “Service Before Self.”

Honoring Her Father Through Service
For Captain Samira, being the commander of a contingent on Republic Day is itself a tribute to her father. In an interview, she said, “Leading a team during the Republic Day parade is my way of paying homage to my father.” She added, “Although my family will not be present on the parade ground, I am confident that my father is cheering me from above, just as he always did.”

A Fourth-Generation Soldier
Hailing from Chandigarh, Captain Samira Buttar continues her family’s proud military tradition. She is the fourth generation in her family to serve in the Indian Army: daughter of Colonel Sarabjit Singh Buttar (Retd.), granddaughter of Brigadier Sampuran Singh Buttar (Retd., Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra awardee), and great-granddaughter of Risaldar Major Ratan Singh. Inspired by her forefathers, Samira dreamt of joining the army from childhood and prepared herself diligently after completing her schooling in Chandigarh.

Steps That Echo Beyond Borders
All eyes on Republic Day 2026 will be on the tableau representing Operation Sindoor, which delivered a decisive response to Pakistan in 2025. Captain Samira expressed, “Being the commander of the team showcasing this special tableau is a dream for any officer.” She elaborated, “The Integrated Operation Center’s tableau reflects the success of Operation Sindoor. It symbolized the unity of a nation, strong strategic will, the armed forces, and the contribution of the people of India. It represents our unity, readiness, strength, and the spirit of a self-reliant Indian Army.”

Captain Samira Buttar’s inspiring story of dedication and courage stands as a shining example for the nation and for every young woman aspiring to serve her country.