Ganju Lama

Subedar Major Gyamtso Shangdarpa, widely known as Ganju Lama, was born in the Kingdom of Sikkim on 22 July 1924. Born into the Bhutia Community to Shangdarpa parents, he was originally expected to serve as a monk according to local traditions of the Chogyal period. At the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the British Indian Army in 1942, joining the 1st battalion, 7th Gurkha rifles as a rifleman. This occurred during a period of high manpower demands for the Gurkha regiments.

During his service in World War II, Ganju Lama demonstrated exceptional bravery in combat. His actions earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest and most prestigious decoration for gallantry in the face of the enemy within British and Commonwealth forces. Notably, he is the only Bhutia recipient of this prestigious honor.

In addition to the Victoria Cross, his distinguished service during the war was recognized with the Military Medal. Following his distinguished wartime career, he continued his military service, eventually attaining the rank of Subedar Major in the Indian Army.