In a solemn ceremony at INA, Dr Ameeta Mulla Wattal and Mrs Anjali Kaul, daughters of late Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla, MVC (Posthumous) handed over the original Maha Vir Chakra medal, the second highest military decoration in India, to the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala. The MVC is awarded for acts of conspicuous gallantary in the face of the enemy action. Vice Admiral Puneet K Bahl, Commandant, INA received the original medal of late Captain MN Mulla. Dr Ameeta Mulla Wattal and Mrs Anjali Kaul also conducted motivational lecture on Leadership lessons from the heroic acts of Captain MN Mulla. During 1971IndoPakwar, on the night of 09 Dec 1971, INS Khukri was hit by torpedoes. Having decided to abandon ship, Captain Mulla without regard to his own personal safety supervised arrangements for rescue of his ship’s company in a very calm, composed and methodical manner. Having directed as many of his men as possible to leave the ship, Captain Mulla went back to the bridge to see what further rescue operations could be performed. In doing so, Captain Mulla was last seen going down with his ship. His actions, behaviour and example he set, has been in keeping with the highest traditions of the service and core values of Duty, Honour and Courage. For the conspicuous gallantry and dedication displayed, Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla was awarded Maha Vir Chakra Posthumously. The award will be kept on display below Captain Mulla’s citation at the Motivational Hall of Prerna Sthal. The world class Olympic standard Aquatics complex at the Indian Naval Academy is named after late Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla, MVC (Posthumous). Each squadron at INA prominently displays stories of heroic action to inspire future leaders. Such acts of gallantry and bravery would continue to inspire generations of young officers who pass through the portals of the prestigious Indian Naval Academy.
