Mohammad Maqbool Sherwani

Maqbool Sherwani was a National Conference member who delayed the invasion of Pashtuns tribesmen from Pakistan in Baramulla, Kashmir in October 1947. In this manner, he played an important role in buying time for Indian Army's Sikh Regiment troops who landed in Srinagar once the accession was accepted. Sherwani embraced the diverse culture of Baramulla, celebrating its Religious pluralism. Residents also recount stories that underscore his endeavors to foster unity and religious tolerance.

Maqbool Sherwani is considered as a hero by Indian Army.

Legacy In his memory, at Maqbool Sherwani Auditorium and Mohammad Maqbool Sherwani Memorial in Baramulla, tributes are paid by Kashmiris and government officials. The Balidan Stambh monument by Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry also bears the name of Maqbool Sherwani. Writer Mulk Raj Anand wrote an account of Maqbool Sherwani's story in his novel, Death Of A Hero. Anand's novel was adapted into an Indian television show, Maqbool Ki Vaapsi, which aired on DD Kashir in 2011.

Gopalkrishna Gandhi describes Sherwani’s death as “a martyrdom which anyone — Hindu, Sikh, Muslim, or any other — can be proud”. Yogendra Yadav compares Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a 29-year-old pony ride operator who died during Pahalgam terror attack with Sherwani. Shah was the sole local among the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and was reportedly killed while attempting to shield the Hindu tourists he had transported on horseback by confronting the militants.