ALD Ravsaheb Ananda Sonje of the Indian Army’s 69 Armoured Regiment died in the line of duty on 25 October 2017. A native of Wakhari village in Deola taluka of Nashik district, Maharashtra, he had served in the Indian Army for approximately 14 years, according to a contemporary report published by Maharashtra Times.
His Military Service
Sonje served with the 69 Armoured Regiment. The contemporary report identified him as 34 years old at the time of his death. His years in uniform took him away from his native village as he carried out his responsibilities in the Indian Army.
His Final Days
According to the report, after returning from leave and rejoining his posting, Sonje sustained a serious injury to his right leg. He was admitted to the Army’s Command Hospital in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, where he underwent treatment. He later succumbed to his injuries following excessive blood loss.
The report stated that Sonje spoke to his wife, Ashabai, over the telephone on 23 October 2017. On 24 October, he also spoke to his younger brother, Shravan. These conversations became some of the family’s final memories of him.
His Family and Final Journey
Sonje was survived by his wife, Ashabai, their son, his mother and his younger brother. His death brought grief to his family and native village of Wakhari.
According to the contemporary report, his mortal remains were brought to Wakhari on the morning of 28 October 2017. His last rites were conducted in his native village with full state honours.
Remembering His Service
ALD Ravsaheb Ananda Sonje devoted approximately 14 years to service in the Indian Army. His death following a serious injury sustained after rejoining his posting marked a profound loss for his family and community.
The Honour Post records the story of ALD Ravsaheb Ananda Sonje of the 69 Armoured Regiment to preserve his name and service for future generations. His life remains part of the record of Indian Army personnel who died in the line of duty.
