That man was **Sardar Inderjit Singh Sidhu**, an 88-year-old former Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Punjab Police, who earned one of India's highest civilian honours not for his decades in uniform, but for what he chose to do after retirement—pick up a broom and clean the streets of Chandigarh every single day.
A Decorated Officer Who Never Stopped Serving
Born on June 6, 1938, in Punjab's Sangrur district, Inderjit Singh Sidhu joined the Punjab Police in 1961 and rose through the ranks to become a Deputy Inspector General. During his distinguished career, he received the President's Police Medal for his exemplary service.
After retiring in 1996, Sidhu could have enjoyed a peaceful and comfortable life. Instead, he found a new mission that would define the next chapter of his life.
A Mission Inspired by Concern
As Chandigarh's cleanliness rankings began slipping in the national Swachh Survekshan survey, Sidhu was deeply disturbed by the city's litter-filled roads, clogged drains, and neglected public spaces.
Rather than waiting for authorities to solve the problem, he decided to become part of the solution.
Armed with nothing more than a broom and a small cycle cart (rehri), he began sweeping roads, clearing drains, collecting garbage, and cleaning public spaces every morning before sunrise.
"I had complained to the civic authorities many times, but nothing changed. So I decided to do it myself. There is no shame in cleaning. Cleanliness is next to godliness," Sidhu said.
The 'Broom Warrior' of Chandigarh
For nearly three decades, Sidhu has followed an extraordinary routine.
Every morning at 6 a.m., regardless of scorching summers, freezing winters, or heavy rain, he heads out with his broom and cart to clean the city's streets.
Many people initially found it difficult to understand why a retired IPS officer would voluntarily perform what society often considers a menial task.
Some even called him "crazy."
But Sidhu remained unfazed.
"When people called me crazy, I didn't mind. I like a clean place, so I clean. I'll keep doing it as long as I can," he said.
His unwavering dedication eventually earned him the affectionate title of **"Chandigarh's Broom Warrior."**
Guided by the Teachings of Guru Nanak Dev
Sidhu believes that cleanliness is not merely a civic duty but a moral and spiritual responsibility.
Drawing inspiration from Guru Nanak Dev's teachings, he often says:
"The air is the Guru, water the father and the earth the mother. If someone spreads filth on their mother, there is no one worse than them."
For him, cleaning public spaces is an act of respect toward nature itself.
A Habit That Began Long Before Retirement
According to his son, Amoldeep Singh Sidhu, this passion for cleanliness existed long before his father retired from the police force.
"This was always his nature. He could never tolerate people throwing waste in public places," he recalled.
Cleaning the city was not a publicity campaign or a retirement hobby—it was simply an extension of the values Sidhu had lived by throughout his life.
Inspiring an Entire City
What began as one man's personal initiative gradually evolved into a powerful movement.
In 2025, videos showing the elderly former police officer sweeping Chandigarh's streets every morning went viral across social media.
People across India praised his selfless commitment, including industrialist Anand Mahindra, who shared his admiration online.
"He wasn't happy with the low rank Chandigarh got in the Swachh Survekshan. But instead of complaining, he chooses action... Purpose doesn't retire. Service doesn't age," Mahindra wrote.
As public awareness grew, more residents began supporting Sidhu's efforts. Many neighbourhoods became more conscious about maintaining cleanliness, proving how one individual's actions can inspire an entire community.
Recognition That Came Without Seeking It
Unlike many public campaigns driven by slogans and publicity, Sidhu never sought fame or recognition.
His work remained entirely voluntary.
Day after day, year after year, he quietly demonstrated that meaningful change begins with individual responsibility and consistent action.
His Padma Shri honour is not merely recognition of his dedication—it is a celebration of the values he represents: humility, discipline, selfless service, and civic responsibility.
A Living Symbol of Swachh Bharat
Inderjit Singh Sidhu's life perfectly embodies the spirit of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
His dream is remarkably simple—not wealth, fame, or recognition, but to see Chandigarh become India's cleanest city.
He leaves every citizen with a question worth reflecting upon:
"If you visit foreign countries, their streets are spotless. Why can't ours be the same?"
Through nearly three decades of quiet service, the 88-year-old Padma Shri awardee has shown that real patriotism is not always displayed through grand gestures. Sometimes, it begins with something as simple as picking up a broom and choosi
