Who is Jitendra Singh Gurjar of Bharatpur, Keeper of Records of Over 15,000 Martyrs

Bharatpur: Hailing from Suroth village in Rajasthan’s Bharatpur district, Jitendra Singh Gurjar (Rathore) may not have joined the Indian Army, but he has carved a unique path of patriotism. Despite facing financial hardships, limited education, and the loss of sight in one eye, he has devoted his life to honoring the country’s martyrs.

A Tireless Mission

Over the years, Jitendra Singh has reached out to over 15,500 families of martyrs, collected data on 2.07 lakh soldiers, and archived more than 24,300 photographs of fallen heroes. His ultimate dream is to establish a Martyrs’ Hall, where future generations can draw inspiration from the sacrifices of these brave soldiers.

Humble Beginnings

Jitendra Singh studied only up to the tenth grade and used to commute daily on a broken bicycle. While his dream of joining the army remained unfulfilled, his spirit never wavered. He chose a different path of service that has today become a source of support for thousands of martyr families.

From Security Guard to National Servant

For the past 26 years, Jitendra Singh has worked as a security guard at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Institute of Technology (SVNIT) in Surat. His encounter with the stories of martyrs during the Kargil War, his own military family background, and a conversation with a martyr’s father deeply moved him, inspiring the mission that defines his life today.

Honoring Martyrs Through Letters

Inspired by a Japanese tradition, he began writing letters of gratitude and condolence to the families of fallen soldiers. His first letter went to the family of Khardag Singh, a martyr of the 12th Jat Regiment in Jhunjhunu. This effort soon grew into a lifelong mission.

Overcoming Personal Hardships

On the night of February 9, 2010, while writing letters, Jitendra Singh lost sight in one eye due to cataracts. Yet, this setback only strengthened his resolve to continue honoring the heroes of the nation.

A Monumental Collection

Jitendra Singh has compiled a vast archive of martyrs from the First World War to the present. His collection now spans 26 quintals of paper, containing detailed records, photographs, and correspondence—a treasure trove of India’s military history.

Recognition at the Highest Level

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Jitendra Singh’s unparalleled contribution during the Mann Ki Baat program, calling it a true example of patriotism. Recognizing the importance of his work, the SVNIT administration has provided him a dedicated space to continue his mission. His dream remains the creation of a Martyrs’ Hall, ensuring that future generations remain inspired by the valor and sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers.