In 1884, when Hiram Maxim invented the 'Maxim Machine Gun', cavalry charges in wars started to become outdated. However, on September 23, 1918, in the city of Haifa, now in modern-day Israel, the Jodhpur Lancers cavalry, wielding only spears and swords, dismantled the formidable Turkish defense, marking the first and last historical moment of its kind.
This battle, forever known as the 'Battle of Haifa', was significantly driven by the courage of the Jodhpur Lancers. Major Dalpat Singh Shekhawat was martyred here, his fearless actions helping end Turkish dominance of over 400 years. Supporting forces from Mysore and Hyderabad were in reserve, while the Jodhpur Lancers led the charge at the vanguard.
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Israel Honors the Fallen Heroes Every Year
Each year, Israel pays tribute to the brave Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in liberating Haifa during World War I. Captain Aman Singh Jodha and Major Dalpat Singh Shekhawat played crucial roles. When Major Dalpat Singh was struck down, Captain Aman Singh took command to finally liberate Haifa.
Source: aajtak
Swords Triumphed Over Cannons
Armed with only swords and spears, the Indian soldiers triumphed over Turkish machine guns and cannons—a testament to their valiant success. Retired Lieutenant General Abhay Krishna remarked, 'The history of the Indian Army is illustrious, yet sadly, it has not received the recognition it deserves globally. Even today's younger generations remain unaware of this magnificent past.'
He reflected, 'The British Indian Army engaged in many decisive battles against the German, Austro-Hungarian, and Ottoman Empires during World War I. But does anyone question the cost of these victories? Nearly 74,000 Indian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. Regrettably, these heroic deeds are often forgotten, even in America and Britain today.'
Source: aajtak
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Mass Surrender by Turks and Germans
A large number of Turks and Germans surrendered in the Battle of Haifa. Eight Indian soldiers were martyred, and 34 wounded, while over 1,350 Turkish and German troops were captured—including 23 Ottoman and two German officers, along with 664 other soldiers. The exact number of Turkish casualties remains unknown to this day.
Never before or since has a cavalry charge succeeded with such splendor. The Jodhpur Lancers achieved the seemingly impossible, and military historians are still awed by their unparalleled bravery and gallant strategy.
