The Indian Military Academy’s Passing Out Parade was filled with the echoes of marching boots and the cheers of proud families. Among the newly commissioned officers stood Lt Kabilan V, a 23-year-old from a small village near Madurai, whose story touched every heart in attendance. Beside him, his father, Vetriselvam P, watched from a wheelchair, his hands bearing the scars of years as a daily wage labourer. Paralysed by a stroke three months ago, Vetriselvam could only silently witness his son’s triumph, accompanied by a photograph of Kabilan’s late mother, Panmaiyammal, who passed away three years ago due to cancer and Covid-19.
A Journey of Grit and Resilience
As reported by TOI, Kabilan’s journey to this moment was anything but easy. “I failed so many times,” he shared, his voice steady with the weight of his struggles. “But I had to get into the defence forces, and I did it. This is not just my personal success; it belongs to everyone who aspires to join the Indian Army. If someone like me, the son of a daily wage labourer who earned Rs 100 a day, can make it, then anyone can.”
Growing up in Melur village, Tamil Nadu, Kabilan studied at a government school before completing a civil engineering degree from Anna University. His dream of joining the Army seemed distant, but he relentlessly pursued it, applying through every possible entry category, from NCC to graduate entries. Despite numerous rejections, he never gave up. “Courage inspires me,” he said, summing up the strength that carried him through.
Balancing Dreams and Responsibilities
After his mother’s passing, Kabilan became the backbone of his family, supporting his younger brother’s civil service aspirations while caring for his ailing father. Alongside his responsibilities, he worked as a waterboat supervisor with Delta Squad, a National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) volunteer group. “He had to sustain his family while chasing his dream,” said Sub Lt (Retd) Sugal Esan, Kabilan’s mentor, who attended the ceremony.
During rescue missions in Chennai and Kanyakumari floods, Kabilan saved almost 200 lives, showcasing the courage and dedication that defined his journey. Even while juggling work, he made time for his studies. “I would go for work from 10 am to 4 pm, and after returning home, from 6 to 10 pm, I would do my studies with a group of students aspiring to crack this prestigious exam to join the forces,” Kabilan explained.
A Dream Realised
Kabilan’s unwavering determination finally paid off, and he now proudly dons the insignia of the Para regiment. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “Learn things, fail better, and you will get success. Your determination and perseverance are the keys to your entry door to success.” (ET)
