Gentleman cadet 14, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw

It was a decade ago and more that we were invited to a passing out parade at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. But I recall it as if it were yesterday. From the moment we arrived, everything was precision and structure.

- Maja Daruwala

A very proper but suitably handsome young liaison officer attached himself firmly to our little party of four and shepherded us politely but unswervingly through a welcome cup of tea; quick bathe and change, and down to drinks. Well in time for the grand entrance of the chief guest. Dinner in the darkly handsome wood panelled hall had us all behind nameplates in correct pecking order with the high table at right angles to our own three benches. Liveried bearers entered, served, and cleared in unison. Dinner ended with toasts to the President, the Academy and the chief guest. Brandy and cigars done we retired early in readiness for the big day when the new batch of 600 gentlemen cadets would be passing out.

Next morning, true to some invisible master clock, our military companion took us in hand, cast a gimlet eye over our attire, checked we were warmly clad, and settled us into carefully marked out seats. Before us the parade unfolded.

The first dignitary drove himself up in a single horse buggy; the next arrived in a carriage and pair; and finally, the chief guest stepped out of a four horse carriage to take his place under the canopy to review the parade.