Nabha, March 5
Had Lt Gen Bikram Singh, who will take over the reins of the 1.3 million-strong Army on May 31, not been in the forces, he would have been a poignant painter or a soulful singer.

Bikram Singh had a passion for painting during his school days. At his alma mater, Punjab Public School, Nabha, Singh’s paintings fetched him the best artist award for two years in a row.

What’s more, the talented lad was good at crooning too and loved to hum numbers picturised on yesteryear actor Rajendra Kumar.

“From a relatively quiet child to a confident boy, who not only excelled in academics and sports but was equally good in various art forms, he (Bikram Singh) grew by leaps and bounds,” recalled his first housemaster KC Tandon.

“Bikram was in the Beas House. I still remember him as a young boy who was well-behaved and disciplined. He was very resourceful and dependable. Whatever job was assigned to him, he did it to the best of his ability,”.Tandon said.

“I vividly remember his paintings were widely appreciated. He was fond of singing too. Songs filmed on Rajinder Kumar were his favourite,” said Tandon.

“He was an excellent pupil, always ready to shoulder any responsibility. He had a naughty side too and often used to play little pranks. His elevation to the top position of the Army is a matter of great pride for the entire school,” said KPK Tandon, Bikram’s English teacher.

A quick glance through his personal record revealed an interesting detail about the General. After joining the school, Bikram Singh added to his qualities with the each passing year. So in the first year, he was quite child, which turned into confident, cheerful, friendly, dedicated, helpful, and finally an all-rounder. There is not even a single report by his teachers that doesn’t mention his painting skills.

Talking to The Tribune, the headmaster of school, Jagpreet Singh, said: “We are proud of his achievements. The teachers and students have been celebrating since Saturday when the announcement of his elevation was made.”

“Bikram’s father’s letter, which is in our record books, clearly explains that why this school is held in high regards. In his letter, he had thanked the then principal JK Kate for moulding his child into a complete man, who was ready to touch new heights,” said the principal.