The Lawrence School, Sanawar – Military Heritage (1847–2025): ‘Never Give In’ – Book Release
By Patial RC
The release of the coffee table book “The Lawrence School, Sanawar – Military Heritage (1847–2025)” on Saturday, 21 March 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi, marked a truly significant and memorable occasion. I had the privilege of attending this distinguished event, courtesy of my regimental senior, General KVS Lalotra (11 Gorkha Rifles—one of the youngest and smallest regiments, yet among the finest owing to its remarkable achievements and the high aspirations it inspires among cadets).
This landmark publication was formally released by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, an erudite Soldier-Scholar. The coffee table book (CTB) comprises of over 450 printed pages along with approximately 200 digital pages, the volume chronicles the rich military heritage and enduring legacy of The Lawrence School, Sanawar. It stands as a tribute to generations of Sanawarians and reflects the institution’s foundational ethos, encapsulated in its credo: “Never Give In.” The dedication, perseverance, and scholarly rigor of the editorial team are evident throughout this monumental and meticulously curated researched work of over five years reflecting their spirit of “Never Give In.”
Over the decades, Sanawarians have joined the Armed Forces in large numbers, serving the nation with pride and distinction. From legendary war heroes to gallantry award winners, they have etched their names in the annals of Indian military history. Among the most illustrious are 2nd Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous); Major Vijay Ratan Chowdhry Maha Vir Chakra (Posthumous); Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, an accomplished yachtsman; the distinguished Shergill brothers and many more.
A notable facet of Sanawarians in the Defence Forces has been their excellence in Adventure activities (Brig Bajaj and Colonel ) and Equestrian pursuits, including riding and polo—remarkably, despite the school historically not having horses. Sanawarians have represented the nation at the Asian Games and various international equestrian events, bringing laurels to the country. Distinguished names include Colonel HS Sodhi, Brigadier VP Singh, Colonel RS Brar, Colonel Garcha, and Colonel Navdeep Sidhu. A fascinating and lesser-known fact revealed during the event was that, at one point in time, both the NDA and IMA polo teams were composed entirely of Sanawarians—an extraordinary testament to their excellence. In spite of the fact that the school did not have horses! Again, reflects their spirit of “Never Give In.”
The event witnessed an eminent gathering of distinguished alumni and dignitaries, truly a “Who’s Who” of Sanawarians. The auditorium of the Manekshaw Centre, adorned with portraits of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Field Marshal KM Cariappa, provided a fittingly historic and dignified setting keeping a close eye on the audience. The distinguished panel included former Naval Chief Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat; Air Marshal KC Cariappa, son of Field Marshal Cariappa; former Nepal Army Chief and Honorary Chief of the Indian Army, General Shamsher Rana; and members of the editorial team whose “Never Give In” spirit brought this historic work to life.
Among the notable attendees were Ms. Maya Manekshaw, daughter of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw; the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Shri Taranjit Singh Sandhu; senior military leaders; and a large number of serving Sanawarian officers. The current Headmaster, Mr Himmat Singh Dhillon, along with former headmasters, added further gravitas to the occasion.
Particularly noteworthy was the presence of young students from Sanawar, who had undertaken an early morning journey from their Hill Top campus to attend the event. Witnessing the unveiling of a publication encapsulating their school’s legacy and interacting with illustrious alumni undoubtedly provided them with a profound and lasting educational experience. The accompanying faculty shared in this pride and inspiration. For these students, the occasion will surely remain an unforgettable memory—one they will recount with pride among peers, friends, and family in the days to come.
The presentation of the coffee table book was conducted with exceptional depth and engagement, spanning nearly four hours. It reflected not only the magnitude of the work but also the enduring spirit, pride, and deep sense of belonging that define the Sanawarian community and its abiding motto— “Never Give In.”
As a Nabhaite (PPS Nabha), I found the event to be a deeply enriching and memorable learning experience. The narration of historic accounts—from battlefield stories from the trenches to the poignant prisoner-of-war experience of Air Marshal Cariappa, who was shot down as a young fighter pilot—was particularly moving. For Sanawarians, possession of this rare coffee table book will, in the years to come, remain a cherished treasure and a proud symbol of their legacy.
The event concluded with the school song, on a note befitting the institution’s enduring motto— “Never Give In”—a guiding principle that continues to inspire generations on their onward and upward journey toward the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
- Col RC Patial, SM, FRGS, PhD PPS Nabha
