Born on December 2, 1914, in Amritsar, Punjab, Sam Bahadur Manekshaw was the second of four children to a Parsi family. His father, Dr. Homi Maneckshaw, was a renowned doctor, and his mother, Helen Manekshaw, was a homemaker. Manekshaw's early life was marked by a strong sense of discipline and duty, which would later become the hallmark of his military career.

Q: What is the significance of the biography "The Man and His Times"? A: The biography provides a comprehensive and engaging narrative of Manekshaw's life, his military career, and his times, offering valuable insights into his personality, leadership style, and achievements.

Throughout his life, Manekshaw was guided by a strong sense of duty, honor, and loyalty. He was a natural leader who inspired loyalty and devotion in his troops. Manekshaw's leadership style was characterized by his ability to take calculated risks, think on his feet, and make swift decisions under pressure.

The book is a riveting account of Manekshaw's experiences, from his early days at the IMA to his tenure as COAS. The author has drawn extensively from Manekshaw's personal papers, letters, and interviews to create a comprehensive and engaging narrative.

Manekshaw was known for his wit, humor, and humility, which endeared him to his colleagues and subordinates. He was a devoted husband and had a strong sense of family values. Manekshaw married Sita Manekshaw in 1935, and the couple had two daughters, Jyoti and Piroj.