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Rambo: The true account of a Special Forces Officer, Major Sudhir Walia ǀ True story of a brave Para SF Officer
What drove a young man with a full life to sacrifice it all for his nation?
Why did battle-hardened soldiers revere this young man, following him into peril, or even death?
A loving son to a doting mother, a loyal friend to fellow officers, a trusted comrade to his brave soldiers, and a fearless warrior against his enemy.
Built from true accounts, here is an authentic life story of Major Sudhir Walia of 9 Para (SF). From leading an attack on Zulu Top in the Kargil war, to operations against terrorists in the Kashmir valley, this book charts the journey of this maverick Special Forces Officer.
Twice decorated with the Sena Medal, Major Sudhir Walia was killed in action while leading an audacious raid against foreign militants. He was posthumously awarded India’s highest peacetime gallantry award – the Ashok Chakra.
Nicknamed Rambo for his daredevilry, read on to find what it takes to forge a hero whose legacy and raw courage inspire men even today.
Why did battle-hardened soldiers revere this young man, following him into peril, or even death?
A loving son to a doting mother, a loyal friend to fellow officers, a trusted comrade to his brave soldiers, and a fearless warrior against his enemy.
Built from true accounts, here is an authentic life story of Major Sudhir Walia of 9 Para (SF). From leading an attack on Zulu Top in the Kargil war, to operations against terrorists in the Kashmir valley, this book charts the journey of this maverick Special Forces Officer.
Twice decorated with the Sena Medal, Major Sudhir Walia was killed in action while leading an audacious raid against foreign militants. He was posthumously awarded India’s highest peacetime gallantry award – the Ashok Chakra.
Nicknamed Rambo for his daredevilry, read on to find what it takes to forge a hero whose legacy and raw courage inspire men even today.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2024
15 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
June 29, 2024
Words fail me. I feel proud, my eyes moist. I also feel humbled by the acts of our soldiers, risking their lives in a hostile environment. My problems in the corporate arena seem insignificant. Col Kale has recreated the life of brave soldiers besides Major Sudhir Walia - Arun, Mukhtiar, Kheem, Vinod, Anchal,Bijli, Mahendra, Sonam so realistically that you feel what they are going through ( though you can never feel it really). Sudhir towers over all, a brilliant officer who is fearless, determined with an intuition that is iyncanny. He has a sense of humour that he uses even in the most difficult times. He knows ten plus languages and picks up new ones quickly. He saves the Indian army from embarrassment in Sri Lanka, is the first person to scale Brammah II ( 6488 m) peak, tops the USAICoE training program in USA where top officers from across the world compete, volunteers for an assignment in Siachen leaving a safe and illustrious position of instructor, again leaves a cushy job as the ADC of Chief of Army to be at the Battlefront. He finds the live of his life , a Kashmiri girl, but has to give her up due to ideological differences. Rambo is like candle in front of the sun that is Sudhir. I salute him and all other soldiers who are ready to sacrifice their lives so we can have a peaceful one. This is a book that everyone should read - whether you want to understand how our soldiers are fighting against all odds in the himalayas, how Pakistan is trying every dirty trick to destabilize Kashmir, how terrorist from different parts of the world have taken over from local ones in Kashmir.
May 21, 2024
"Rambo: The True Account of a Special Forces Officer, Major Sudhir Walia" is a riveting biographical narrative that pays homage to the life and legacy of one of India’s most valorous soldiers. The book meticulously chronicles the journey of Major Sudhir Walia, an officer of 9 Para (Special Forces), whose indomitable spirit and extraordinary bravery have left an indelible mark on his comrades and the nation.
The core of this book is its authentic recounting of Major Walia’s life, offering a compelling insight into what drives an individual to forsake personal safety for the greater good of the nation. The narrative explores his formative years, his intense training, and the operations that defined his career. Each chapter is imbued with the ethos of the soldier’s life, highlighting the blend of duty, patriotism, and the unyielding courage that Major Walia embodied.
The book beautifully portrays Major Walia’s dual life as a devoted son and a fierce warrior. The deep affection he had for his family and friends provides a stark contrast to his relentless pursuit of excellence on the battlefield, painting a well-rounded picture of the man behind the uniform.
Detailed accounts of his operations, particularly the attack on Zulu Top during the Kargil War and his missions in the Kashmir Valley, are vividly described. These sections stand out for their raw and gripping depiction of military strategy, leadership, and the harsh realities of combat.
Major Walia’s ability to inspire and lead is a recurring theme. The respect and reverence he commanded among his peers and subordinates are palpable throughout the narrative. The book delves into what made him a revered figure, not just for his battlefield prowess but also for his camaraderie and unwavering resolve.
The emotional undertone of the book is profound, particularly in its exploration of Major Walia’s ultimate sacrifice. His posthumous recognition with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, is a testament to his bravery and dedication. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the grief and loss experienced by his family and comrades, adding a layer of poignancy to the heroic tale.
This biography serves as an inspiration, not just for military enthusiasts but for anyone interested in stories of human courage and sacrifice. It prompts readers to reflect on the true meaning of heroism and the price of freedom. Major Walia’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers and the enduring spirit of those who serve on the frontlines.
"Rambo: The True Account of a Special Forces Officer, Major Sudhir Walia" is an exemplary tribute to a soldier whose life and actions speak volumes about valor, dedication, and patriotism. It’s a moving and meticulously detailed account that captures the essence of Major Walia’s remarkable journey. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the heart and soul of a true hero, whose legacy continues to inspire and motivate.
The core of this book is its authentic recounting of Major Walia’s life, offering a compelling insight into what drives an individual to forsake personal safety for the greater good of the nation. The narrative explores his formative years, his intense training, and the operations that defined his career. Each chapter is imbued with the ethos of the soldier’s life, highlighting the blend of duty, patriotism, and the unyielding courage that Major Walia embodied.
The book beautifully portrays Major Walia’s dual life as a devoted son and a fierce warrior. The deep affection he had for his family and friends provides a stark contrast to his relentless pursuit of excellence on the battlefield, painting a well-rounded picture of the man behind the uniform.
Detailed accounts of his operations, particularly the attack on Zulu Top during the Kargil War and his missions in the Kashmir Valley, are vividly described. These sections stand out for their raw and gripping depiction of military strategy, leadership, and the harsh realities of combat.
Major Walia’s ability to inspire and lead is a recurring theme. The respect and reverence he commanded among his peers and subordinates are palpable throughout the narrative. The book delves into what made him a revered figure, not just for his battlefield prowess but also for his camaraderie and unwavering resolve.
The emotional undertone of the book is profound, particularly in its exploration of Major Walia’s ultimate sacrifice. His posthumous recognition with the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, is a testament to his bravery and dedication. The narrative doesn’t shy away from the grief and loss experienced by his family and comrades, adding a layer of poignancy to the heroic tale.
This biography serves as an inspiration, not just for military enthusiasts but for anyone interested in stories of human courage and sacrifice. It prompts readers to reflect on the true meaning of heroism and the price of freedom. Major Walia’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless soldiers and the enduring spirit of those who serve on the frontlines.
"Rambo: The True Account of a Special Forces Officer, Major Sudhir Walia" is an exemplary tribute to a soldier whose life and actions speak volumes about valor, dedication, and patriotism. It’s a moving and meticulously detailed account that captures the essence of Major Walia’s remarkable journey. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the heart and soul of a true hero, whose legacy continues to inspire and motivate.
June 29, 2025
A deeply researched biography, Rambo catches you by the jugular. Ashutosh’s ringside view of the realities of soldiers’ lives and his narration of the skirmishes and conflicts has the reader seated on a razor’s edge applauding the valour, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of soldiers who live and die by the code of duty. Major Sudhir Walia’s sketch is the epitome of this bravery. He resolutely charts his unassailable desire to be at the forefront, scorning safer assignments. In his words, “I was born common. I don’t want to die common. Untitled. Unheard.”
The grit of those who battle fearlessly while we remained cocooned in our safe lives took on a special meaning as I read this book during the Pahalgam massacre and its aftermath. The author, Col Ashutosh Kale, a fellow army man, brings an insider’s lens to Major Walia’s life, capturing the facts and the pulse of the military fraternity with equal elan.
From the icy heights of Kargil to the dense forests of Kupwara, the narrative swings between the éclat of victory and the ennui of defeat, raw, immersive, and emotionally charged. Photographs and vivid battlefield descriptions pepper the book, enhancing visual storytelling and making the reader a silent partner reliving the history of countless wars.
However, this read isn’t just for war enthusiasts or those seeking military detailing; it is a requiem for those choosing courage over comfort, country over relationships. The narrative isn’t all battlefield journalism though, for beyond the medals and missions, we meet Sudhir, the son, the friend, the lover, and the leader. Yet these roles remain muted, and the broader reader may remain unsatiated. I for one yearned to read more of how Sudhir’s single-mindedness affected his relationship with Taslim and his mother and the pain and anguish they may have suffered. Also, while the painstaking research by the author lends credibility, the writing is deeply reverential, perhaps questioning the critical distance and objectivity in portraying Major Walia.
That maybe a civilian reader’s critical misstep. We perhaps fail to imagine a human embodiment so driven by an irrational love for the country which subsumes everything else; larger-than-life heroes, we can never emulate and may thus dismiss their magic as illusory. Yet they were real, what they accomplished superhuman. And we exist because they did, often in lives more tenuous and shorter than ours. Without a thought or a pause on the cost or the consequences.
That’s the residue we must take away. That such true-life stories stir our souls and leave us with a lump in our throat and deep reverence for our men and women on the battlefront. That such tributes must shine upon the brilliance of bravery rather than what it leaves in the shadows. And on this count, Rambo delivers. And how!
The grit of those who battle fearlessly while we remained cocooned in our safe lives took on a special meaning as I read this book during the Pahalgam massacre and its aftermath. The author, Col Ashutosh Kale, a fellow army man, brings an insider’s lens to Major Walia’s life, capturing the facts and the pulse of the military fraternity with equal elan.
From the icy heights of Kargil to the dense forests of Kupwara, the narrative swings between the éclat of victory and the ennui of defeat, raw, immersive, and emotionally charged. Photographs and vivid battlefield descriptions pepper the book, enhancing visual storytelling and making the reader a silent partner reliving the history of countless wars.
However, this read isn’t just for war enthusiasts or those seeking military detailing; it is a requiem for those choosing courage over comfort, country over relationships. The narrative isn’t all battlefield journalism though, for beyond the medals and missions, we meet Sudhir, the son, the friend, the lover, and the leader. Yet these roles remain muted, and the broader reader may remain unsatiated. I for one yearned to read more of how Sudhir’s single-mindedness affected his relationship with Taslim and his mother and the pain and anguish they may have suffered. Also, while the painstaking research by the author lends credibility, the writing is deeply reverential, perhaps questioning the critical distance and objectivity in portraying Major Walia.
That maybe a civilian reader’s critical misstep. We perhaps fail to imagine a human embodiment so driven by an irrational love for the country which subsumes everything else; larger-than-life heroes, we can never emulate and may thus dismiss their magic as illusory. Yet they were real, what they accomplished superhuman. And we exist because they did, often in lives more tenuous and shorter than ours. Without a thought or a pause on the cost or the consequences.
That’s the residue we must take away. That such true-life stories stir our souls and leave us with a lump in our throat and deep reverence for our men and women on the battlefront. That such tributes must shine upon the brilliance of bravery rather than what it leaves in the shadows. And on this count, Rambo delivers. And how!
June 23, 2024
RAMBO: The True Account of Special Forces Officer Sudhir Walia by Col Ashutosh Kale**
The 1990s were a turbulent decade for India. Following a failed peacekeeping mission in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰, the Indian Army found itself embroiled in a bitter conflict with separatists in Kashmir, leading up to the Kargil War with Pakistan 🇵🇰.
Amidst this turmoil, many Indian Army officers and soldiers fought valiantly, laying down their lives for their motherland. Among these heroes was Major Sudhir Walia. Baptized in the art of war as a young officer in Vavuniya, Sri Lanka, Sudhir showed exceptional promise and went on to join the 9 Para Special Forces Unit of the Indian Armed Forces.
Sudhir's involvement in various counter-insurgency operations across the Kashmir Valley earned him a near-mythical status among his men. Known as "the man without fear," he always led from the front, possessing an uncanny ability to detect terrorists in the jungle from miles away. Many Mujahideen were dispatched through the barrel of his rifle.
When the Kargil War erupted in 1999, Sudhir left his comfortable posting as ADC to the Army Chief to join his unit at the front. There, he led a successful operation to capture a crucial vantage point known as Zulu Top.
After the war, Sudhir continued to lead numerous successful operations, neutralizing several terrorists. His unparalleled bravery and effectiveness earned him the moniker "Rambo" from his colleagues.
On August 29th, acting on solid intelligence, Sudhir led a team of soldiers to a terrorist hideout in Kupwara. A massive firefight ensued, during which Sudhir killed 9 out of a group of 20 terrorists, but not before sustaining fatal injuries. The brave officer succumbed to his wounds on the way to the hospital.
**Rambo** is a compelling retelling of Sudhir’s life and major accomplishments. The book provides a vivid account of his operations, making it as thrilling as an action movie. Major Sudhir was from a place just a few kilometres from my home in Himachal Pradesh, India and hence I found so much to relate to in this book. I highly recommend reading it you’re a military enthusiast and want to know more about this brave officer.
The 1990s were a turbulent decade for India. Following a failed peacekeeping mission in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰, the Indian Army found itself embroiled in a bitter conflict with separatists in Kashmir, leading up to the Kargil War with Pakistan 🇵🇰.
Amidst this turmoil, many Indian Army officers and soldiers fought valiantly, laying down their lives for their motherland. Among these heroes was Major Sudhir Walia. Baptized in the art of war as a young officer in Vavuniya, Sri Lanka, Sudhir showed exceptional promise and went on to join the 9 Para Special Forces Unit of the Indian Armed Forces.
Sudhir's involvement in various counter-insurgency operations across the Kashmir Valley earned him a near-mythical status among his men. Known as "the man without fear," he always led from the front, possessing an uncanny ability to detect terrorists in the jungle from miles away. Many Mujahideen were dispatched through the barrel of his rifle.
When the Kargil War erupted in 1999, Sudhir left his comfortable posting as ADC to the Army Chief to join his unit at the front. There, he led a successful operation to capture a crucial vantage point known as Zulu Top.
After the war, Sudhir continued to lead numerous successful operations, neutralizing several terrorists. His unparalleled bravery and effectiveness earned him the moniker "Rambo" from his colleagues.
On August 29th, acting on solid intelligence, Sudhir led a team of soldiers to a terrorist hideout in Kupwara. A massive firefight ensued, during which Sudhir killed 9 out of a group of 20 terrorists, but not before sustaining fatal injuries. The brave officer succumbed to his wounds on the way to the hospital.
**Rambo** is a compelling retelling of Sudhir’s life and major accomplishments. The book provides a vivid account of his operations, making it as thrilling as an action movie. Major Sudhir was from a place just a few kilometres from my home in Himachal Pradesh, India and hence I found so much to relate to in this book. I highly recommend reading it you’re a military enthusiast and want to know more about this brave officer.
April 25, 2025
Reel life can’t beat real life. Sudhir Walia’s awe inspiring life embodies this. Nicknamed Rambo for his daredevil military missions, his keen planning and execution skills and exemplary leadership, Major Walia is the stuff of legends!
Almost carved to perfection – as a son, a comrade, a soldier and leader he often leaves you gaping at what a human can endure when his grit couples with fierce love for motherland.
Col Ashutosh crafts a masterpiece with meticulously described missions, with a ‘I’m in it’ feel that makes the scene come alive, the jovial camaraderie between soldiers, the chilling mutilations from enemies, the ‘enemies within’, the hapless indignation when politicians misuse military. Above all the inhuman humans who are the staunch fence between us and death.
Gutsy 1-liners and light banter is sprinkled throughout. Sample these - ‘Why invent the wheel?’
‘Technical details make guns boring. Well, I’m glad he didn’t become a gynaecologist.’
‘I was born common. I don’t want to die common. Unheard. Untitled.’
‘Until death, it is all life.’
‘I’m the storm.”
A must-read for every Indian.
Almost carved to perfection – as a son, a comrade, a soldier and leader he often leaves you gaping at what a human can endure when his grit couples with fierce love for motherland.
Col Ashutosh crafts a masterpiece with meticulously described missions, with a ‘I’m in it’ feel that makes the scene come alive, the jovial camaraderie between soldiers, the chilling mutilations from enemies, the ‘enemies within’, the hapless indignation when politicians misuse military. Above all the inhuman humans who are the staunch fence between us and death.
Gutsy 1-liners and light banter is sprinkled throughout. Sample these - ‘Why invent the wheel?’
‘Technical details make guns boring. Well, I’m glad he didn’t become a gynaecologist.’
‘I was born common. I don’t want to die common. Unheard. Untitled.’
‘Until death, it is all life.’
‘I’m the storm.”
A must-read for every Indian.
June 26, 2024
🌸🌸BOOK REVIEW: RAMBO 🌸🌸
Since childhood i was always a BORDER movie Girl 😊 .. probably one of the best movies i have seen 😊
When reading this book ... I experienced all the feelings happy.. sad.. anger.. helplessness.. and of all PROUD TO BE AN INDIAN ... Author has just memersised every reader with details in explanation and experience , the perspective of actual realities...
At one point i dint wanted to read the Last few pages bcoz i dint wanted Major Sudhir to die nor in book nor in reality.. 😔
Probably after completing the book The most astounding take away i had was ... BE A CIVILIAN WORTHY ENOUGH
... FOR THE SACRIFICE PEOPLE LIKE MAJOR SUDHIR DID..💚
Lets not encourage hate amoung ourselves with the privileged life we live here ... Safe ... Untouched.. Unquestioned .. Everything availability at our request and honour every single sacrifice soldiers and there families do.
#books #wheelchairlife #wheelie
Since childhood i was always a BORDER movie Girl 😊 .. probably one of the best movies i have seen 😊
When reading this book ... I experienced all the feelings happy.. sad.. anger.. helplessness.. and of all PROUD TO BE AN INDIAN ... Author has just memersised every reader with details in explanation and experience , the perspective of actual realities...
At one point i dint wanted to read the Last few pages bcoz i dint wanted Major Sudhir to die nor in book nor in reality.. 😔
Probably after completing the book The most astounding take away i had was ... BE A CIVILIAN WORTHY ENOUGH
... FOR THE SACRIFICE PEOPLE LIKE MAJOR SUDHIR DID..💚
Lets not encourage hate amoung ourselves with the privileged life we live here ... Safe ... Untouched.. Unquestioned .. Everything availability at our request and honour every single sacrifice soldiers and there families do.
#books #wheelchairlife #wheelie
September 21, 2025
Unputdownable. The book does great service to the Legend that was Maj Sudhir Walia. The author has done a very good job of bringing out to the world the harshness and the unforgiving environment the Indian Soldier operates in with dogged determination and asking for nothing in return.
Everyman apart; everyman an emperor!
Everyman apart; everyman an emperor!
June 29, 2025
Writing could have been better
December 30, 2024
This book is an exceptional find that every reader should experience at least once. It is a biography based on true events, with meticulously researched facts, records, maps, and comprehensive details that provide a strong foundation for the narrative. These elements piqued my curiosity and drew me into the story.
Throughout the book, self-sacrifice appears both profound and moving, illustrating the ultimate act of bravery in serving one's country. The language's ease and the narration's excellence make it accessible and engaging, ensuring a compelling reading experience.
READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE:
https://www.bibliophiletalks.in/book-...
Throughout the book, self-sacrifice appears both profound and moving, illustrating the ultimate act of bravery in serving one's country. The language's ease and the narration's excellence make it accessible and engaging, ensuring a compelling reading experience.
READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE:
https://www.bibliophiletalks.in/book-...
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews