The Real Decisive Hero of the Indo-Pak War 1965: “King of Rajouri” Major Malik Munawar Khan Awan

The Real Decisive Hero of the Indo-Pak War 1965: “King of Rajouri” Major Malik Munawar Khan Awan

In the tumultuous history of Indo-Pak relations, the 1965 war stands as a pivotal chapter. While many names are celebrated in both countries, few have earned respect on both sides of the border. One such figure is Major Malik Munawar Khan Awan, a fearless commander known not only for his unmatched battlefield tactics but also for the admiration he received from even his adversaries. Dubbed the “King of Rajouri” by Pakistan’s Field Marshal Ayub Khan, Major Munawar’s contributions to the 1965 war are often overlooked, yet they remain central to the narrative of valor, strategy, and patriotism.

Early Life and Unconventional Path to the Battlefield

Born in British India, Malik Munawar Khan Awan was discovered early on as an exceptional athlete by British officers. His potential earned him a spot at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun in 1940, launching a military career that would span across regimes and borders.

During World War II, he was captured in Burma by the Japanese and, rather than remain a prisoner, he joined the Imperial Japanese Army and received training in special forces operations. This rare move led him into the ranks of the Indian National Army (INA) under Subhas Chandra Bose, where he participated in the Battle of Imphal. Though captured and sentenced to death, he was later released after the Partition of India.

Recognized by Fatima Jinnah, he was invited to join the Pakistan Army, and soon after, he led a tribal lashkar in the 1948 Kashmir War, advancing all the way to Baramulla.

Operation Gibraltar & the Ghaznavi Force

In the 1965 war, Major Munawar led the Ghaznavi Force, one of the ten infiltration units under Operation Gibraltar. Operating under the codename “Brigadier Raza”, his group was the only successful force out of the ten.

His force infiltrated deep into Indian-held territory, capturing nearly 2,000 square miles in Rajouri, Poonch, Budhal, and Riasi. In a stunning display of tactical brilliance, his men defeated seven Indian battalions, including the elite 7 Sikh, 3 Kumaon, and Gorkha units, across 17 major battles.

What made his campaign legendary was not just battlefield success — but his ability to establish parallel governance, hoisting the Pakistani flag and appointing local officials in captured areas. This not only dealt a psychological blow but also temporarily shifted administrative control.

Strategic Impact & Missed Opportunities

The success of the Ghaznavi Force under Major Munawar’s command laid the groundwork for Operation Grand Slam, intended to capitalize on the momentum in Kashmir. However, the operation faltered due to a sudden, controversial change in command — from General Akhtar Malik to General Yahya Khan. This political misstep possibly cost Pakistan a major strategic advantage.

Eventually, Major Munawar’s forces withdrew under orders from GHQ Rawalpindi as part of a broader UN-negotiated ceasefire. Pakistan, in return, regained Lahore, Sialkot, and Haji Peer Pass — areas lost earlier in the conflict.

Recognition at Home and Across the Border

Major Munawar was recommended for the Nishan-e-Haider, Pakistan’s highest military honor, but was instead awarded the Sitara-e-Jurat and Tamgha-e-Basalat. While this has stirred debate among military historians, his leadership has never been in question.

Even more remarkably, Indian military historians and officers have described him with deep respect. His photo is displayed in Indian war museums, labeled “A Brave Enemy.” Authors like Brig Chitranjan Sawant, Col M.N. Gulati, Gen Sukhwant Singh, and Maj Gen Dhruv C. Katoch have praised his battlefield skill, leadership, and courage.

Legacy of a Forgotten Hero

Today, Major Malik Munawar Khan Awan’s name doesn’t often appear in textbooks or documentaries — but among military circles, both Pakistani and Indian, he remains a symbol of honor, professionalism, and fearless command. At a time when war narratives are often laced with bias, his story stands out as a rare example of mutual military respect.

Nicknamed “King of Rajouri,” his battlefield achievements continue to inspire soldiers and scholars alike. In an era of polarization, his life is a testament to the fact that courage, strategy, and dignity in warfare can transcend borders.