MS Dhoni’s journey with the armed forces is once again in focus, as a retired Army officer has recalled how initial reservations about granting him an honorary rank eventually turned into deep respect after witnessing his commitment and discipline.
According to retired Lt. Gen. Vinod Bhatia, there was hesitation within military circles when the idea of awarding Dhoni an honorary rank in the Indian Territorial Army was first proposed. The concern, he explained, was rooted in the rigorous standards of the Parachute Regiment, where even earning the iconic maroon beret requires months of intense training and a highly selective process.
“The Maroon Beret is very prestigious; to become a paratrooper, one must undergo six months of probation. It is incredibly tough, with a selection rate of only 20%, and the goal is to break your will,” Bhatia recalled. “Giving the Maroon Beret to someone without that probation felt wrong.”
However, those doubts began to fade as Dhoni actively engaged with his military responsibilities. Despite being a global cricket icon, he reportedly approached his training and duties with seriousness and humility, earning admiration from those serving alongside him.
Dhoni, who was already known for his calm leadership on the cricket field, surprised many with his willingness to push himself beyond his comfort zone. He openly acknowledged his fear of heights but still went ahead with parachute training jumps, completing the required exercises to qualify as a paratrooper.
Bhatia further shared that Dhoni not only trained but also served with army units in Jammu and Kashmir, including assignments near the Line of Control (LoC), where operational conditions are demanding and sensitive. According to him, Dhoni carried himself with the same discipline expected of a professional soldier.
“MS Dhoni has done a lot for the country. I am very proud of him and his achievements. He behaved and marched like a soldier; I could feel that he was a true soldier at heart,” Bhatia said, reflecting on his changed perception of the former India captain.
Also Read :- https://x.com/Mahiyank_78/status/2046633284655002104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2046633284655002104%7Ctwgr%5Eaa7a4edcdefe8fb861c38951f7faf3bea3bf6de2%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fsports.ndtv.com%2Fcricket%2Fhe-went-to-loc-army-veteran-shares-unheard-story-of-ms-dhonis-patriotism-11391809
MS Dhoni was awarded the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Territorial Army (106 Para TA Battalion) in 2011. In 2015, he further completed five parachute training jumps, officially qualifying as a paratrooper and earning the right to wear the prestigious maroon beret and Para insignia.
Over the years, Dhoni’s association with the armed forces has been seen as a rare example of a sports icon actively engaging with military training and duties, rather than holding a symbolic title alone. His willingness to undergo challenging training despite personal fears has often been highlighted as a reflection of his disciplined and grounded personality.
The latest recollections from military officials add another layer to Dhoni’s legacy—one that extends beyond cricket into service, sacrifice, and respect for the uniform he chose to wear with pride.
