Junagadh: In a moving display of courage and selflessness, an Indian Army soldier from Vanthali in Junagadh district lost his life while saving three youths from drowning in the Ozhat River.

Havaldar Bharatbhai Rameshbhai Bhetaria, a native of Tikar village and serving with the 20th Mahar Battalion in Leh-Ladakh, was home on Diwali vacation when tragedy struck. Two days ago, while out for a walk with friends near the Ozhat River, he noticed three young men struggling in the water. Without a moment’s hesitation, Bharatbhai jumped into the river and managed to rescue all three — but was himself swept away by the strong current.

The news of his death has cast a pall of grief over Tikar village and surrounding areas. His final journey took place today, with full military honors, as thousands of villagers, army personnel, retired soldiers, and local leaders gathered to pay their respects.

Cabinet Minister Arjun Modhwadia and MLA Arvind Ladani were among those who attended the funeral and paid tribute to the brave soldier.

Havaldar Bharatbhai’s sacrifice stands as a reminder of the spirit of the Indian soldier — a soldier never off duty.