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Module - I Military Ethos

Military History
An instrument such as Dundubhi was used to wake up troops at dawn, signify the end
of Ancient India
of a day's fighting at dusk or commence fighting at the designated hour. Like the
Dundubhi, conch or shank was also used extensively in battle. The use of conch shells
slowly faded with time and was replaced by other instrument such as a trumpet.
All armies of the world, even today have military bands, trumpets and bugles as part of
their armed forces. Indian army infantry units maintain a band platoon, which is used to
Note play martial music to motivate troops and also to train them in marching. In war the
soldiers of the band platoon act as paramedics and help wounded soldiers to be
evacuated to hospitals.
3.3 Bravery and Valour

The people of India look up to the Indian soldier as the saviour of country frontiers. A
good soldier demonstrates qualities of courage, self-sacrifice, integrity, strength of
character and commitment to the cause of the Nation. It is therefore, the duty of the
Nation to recognise and honour the sacrifice of a soldier. The valour in the soldier is a
trait that goes back to ancient times.

Bravery of soldiers has often been described in poems, which form an authentic source
of historical evidence. Mothers were described to be proud of their sons joining the
army even after the death of their husbands in war. This was considered as the final
contribution to the Kingdom.
It is said that Valour, Honour, Pride and Clarity of mind were the four fold traits of a
good soldier.

Intext Questions 3.1

1. Who carried the flag to the battlefield?
2. Name any three animals used as a symbol in the flag or emblem.

3. Name any three war music instruments.

What You Have Learnt

 A well-organized army requires certain customs and traditions to be followed so
that they fight with motivation and valour.

 Each aspect of the customs and traditions had a particular meaning and became
an essential aspect of the battlefield.

 The flag or Dhwaj, war music and musical instruments became a part of the army
and an important symbol of war.

 The Kingdoms were recognized by the flags, emblems they created whether as a
flag or coin or artefacts.

 The valour of the Indian soldier was second to none. Soldiers' mothers and wives
were equally brave and examples of the pride of knowing the death of their sons
in the battlefield has been eulogized in a number of poems.

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MILITARY HISTORY