Bhim Sain Uppal

It is with deep sorrow that we announce that Commodore Bhim Sain Uppal passed away peacefully on the evening of July 21, 2025, surrounded by his beloved family. A veteran submariner, a self-made officer, and a true gentleman of the sea, he was a man shaped by destiny, resilience, and divine intervention. His book Sailor by Providence, chronicles his remarkable transformation from refugee child to esteemed Commodore of the Indian Navy.

Commodore Uppal was born to Savitri Devi and Devan Chand Uppal on September 13th, 1937 in Lyallpur (now Faisalabad). His early life was marked by hardship. He lost his mother at the age of eight, survived the trauma of Partition, and left home as a teenager with nothing but self-belief. He joined the Navy in 1954 as a sailor and was commissioned as an officer in 1962 one of the rare few to rise through the ranks entirely on merit. He began his undersea career aboard INS Kalvari, India’s first submarine, and later commanded INS Vagir from 1975 to 1977, a period he described as the highest point of his naval service. He also held senior leadership roles, including Commanding Officer of INS Virbahu and Commodore Submarine Eight (SM8). His distinguished service was recognized with the Nau Sena Medal (NM) and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) for meritorious service.

Commodore Uppal led with hallmarks of true servant leadership: empathy, humility, and unwavering integrity. His commanding presence and quiet strength was respected across ranks and services. Among his many career accomplishments, he derived great pride from his family whom he regarded as his most significant and enduring legacy. Commodore Bhim Sain Uppal’s life was a testament to the quiet power of duty, devotion and Divine Providence, shaped by courage, led with humility and lived in steadfast service to his country, family and community.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Kiran; his son Manu; daughter-in-law Rachna; and granddaughters Arushi and Medha, who were his pride and joy.

A funeral service for Commodore Uppal will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 12:30 to 2:30 PM EST or 10PM IST at National Funeral Home, 7482 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA. A live link to the funeral service is https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25077104464719

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in his memory to causes supporting veterans and youth education.