Nehru wanted to appoint a British as The Head of Indian Army at eve of Independence.

What stopped him & How Field Marshal Cariappa became the First General of Indian Army.

How was Independent India's Suzerainty Saved!

A story very few know, Lets dive in!

Lt. Gen Nathu Singh Rathore was born in Princely State of Dungarpur to descendants of Rathore Jaimal who fought Akbar under the Banner of Maharana Pratap.

He was educated at Mayo College & Royal Military College Sandhurst & Staff College Chamberley.

After serving with Mewar Army, he went on to join 1/7 Rajput Regiment of Independent Indian Army. He had served in Afghanistan, Burma, Deccan & various other expeditions with distinction.

Soon after independence from British rule in 1947, Nehru called a meeting of senior Army Officers to select the first General for the Independent Indian Army.

Present was Lt. Gen Nathu Singh Rathore & many other Military & Ministerial Men.

Nehru in his Victorian English proposed, "I think we should appoint a British Officer as General of Independent Indian Army as we don't have enough experience to lead."

Lt. Gen Nathu Singh Rathore, asked for permission to speak to the meeting & Nehru on this.