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India's Most Fearless #1
India’s Most Fearless: True Stories of Modern Military Heroes
The Army major who led the legendary September 2016 surgical strikes on terror launch pads across the LoC; a soldier who killed 11 terrorists in 10 days; a Navy officer who sailed into a treacherous port to rescue hundreds from an exploding war; a bleeding Air Force pilot who found himself flying a jet that had become a screaming fireball . . .
Their own accounts or of those who were with them in their final moments.
India’s Most Fearless covers fourteen true stories of extraordinary courage and fearlessness, providing a glimpse into the kind of heroism our soldiers display in unthinkably hostile conditions and under grave provocation.
Their own accounts or of those who were with them in their final moments.
India’s Most Fearless covers fourteen true stories of extraordinary courage and fearlessness, providing a glimpse into the kind of heroism our soldiers display in unthinkably hostile conditions and under grave provocation.
214 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 20, 2014
385 people are currently reading
2282 people want to read
About the author
Shiv Aroor
7 books45 followersShiv Aroor is an editor and anchor with India Today television, with over a decade’s experience covering the Indian military. He has reported from conflict zones that include Kashmir, India’s North-east, Sri Lanka and Libya. For the latter, he won two awards for war reporting. Aroor also runs the popular award-winning military news and analysis site Livefist, on which he frequently tells the stories of India’s military heroes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
March 25, 2018
The book features fourteen true stories of extraordinary courage and fearlessness displayed by the Indian armed forces as they discharge their duties, whether eliminating threats to the Indian sovereignty on Indian or foreign soil, rescuing Indian and foreign citizens trapped in war-torn Yemen, trying to survive certain death due to technical glitches or even fighting the elements of nature. Some made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation, leaving behind grieving families and colleagues. As one CO wrote to a martyr’s wife – “Grief will fade away and when it’s gone, only one thing will remain – pride”
Along with the stories, I also enjoyed reading the introduction by the authors and the foreword by General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.
The introduction raises some relevant points which sheds light on the irony and hypocrisy that surrounds the narrative around the Indian Armed Forces.
Whenever a soldier dies in the line of duty, we get some TV or newspaper coverage around the event, people would eulogize the martyrs on social media, and the average citizen would feel very patriotic. Then the social media “activists or warriors” would come online and we have a war between pro- army and anti-army people. Then everything is forgotten and we move on with our lives. The fact is that our actors, sports stars, politicians and even reality TV people enjoy more coverage and recall than our soldiers.
The authors also state that the “godlike” portrayal of the soldiers in the media, I would say that our movies have greater responsibility for this , we tend to forget that they are human beings too with everyday responsibilities – repaying home loan installments, taking care of aged parents, resolving a tiff with a girlfriend and so on.
The best point raised by the authors in the introduction - “The truth is that India remains constantly at war” - something we seldom remember.
The foreword by Gen. Rawat, which includes poetry by Rabindranath Tagore and a quote by Gandhiji, was also good to read.
I am not going into the individual stories but will add that they are well-written and easy to read. The book is only 270 odd pages long, and can be read quite quickly.
The stories also feature the cross-border surgical strikes executed by the Indian Special Forces and the story of Lance Naik Hanamanthappa Koppad – the man who survived six days under more than 25 feet of snow at temperature of – 40 oC. Unfortunately he passed away later in hospital.
I appreciate that the authors also portrayed the “human” side of the soldiers –Col. Santosh Yashwant Mahadik was a visionary who tried to bridge the gap between the army and the Kashmiris through various social initiatives and such was his rapport with some of the latter that even local politicians were concerned; Havildar Hangpan Dada was a pastor in his unit church and was an avid snake-keeper; Lance Naik Mohan Nath Goswami was a kind man who helped the needy and was in the process of building a bigger house for his family, Major Varadaranajan used to say that the toughest battle of his life was making his parents agree to his marriage to a woman from a different community – the list goes on. The authors tried to bring out the emotions but kept melodrama at bay.
I would also say that the families of the soldiers are heroes in their own right. Not only do they live with constant fear, they also have to live with the grief of losing their loved ones – Major Varadarajan’s daughter hides her late father’s pictures so that her mother and grandparents don’t feel “sad”.
But some carry on with the tradition. Col. Mahadik’s wife joined the army as an officer, Lance Hanamanthappa’s wife wants their daughter to join the forces and there are numerous other families where children continue the tradition of national service just like their parents.
Along with the stories, I also enjoyed reading the introduction by the authors and the foreword by General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.
The introduction raises some relevant points which sheds light on the irony and hypocrisy that surrounds the narrative around the Indian Armed Forces.
Whenever a soldier dies in the line of duty, we get some TV or newspaper coverage around the event, people would eulogize the martyrs on social media, and the average citizen would feel very patriotic. Then the social media “activists or warriors” would come online and we have a war between pro- army and anti-army people. Then everything is forgotten and we move on with our lives. The fact is that our actors, sports stars, politicians and even reality TV people enjoy more coverage and recall than our soldiers.
The authors also state that the “godlike” portrayal of the soldiers in the media, I would say that our movies have greater responsibility for this , we tend to forget that they are human beings too with everyday responsibilities – repaying home loan installments, taking care of aged parents, resolving a tiff with a girlfriend and so on.
The best point raised by the authors in the introduction - “The truth is that India remains constantly at war” - something we seldom remember.
The foreword by Gen. Rawat, which includes poetry by Rabindranath Tagore and a quote by Gandhiji, was also good to read.
I am not going into the individual stories but will add that they are well-written and easy to read. The book is only 270 odd pages long, and can be read quite quickly.
The stories also feature the cross-border surgical strikes executed by the Indian Special Forces and the story of Lance Naik Hanamanthappa Koppad – the man who survived six days under more than 25 feet of snow at temperature of – 40 oC. Unfortunately he passed away later in hospital.
I appreciate that the authors also portrayed the “human” side of the soldiers –Col. Santosh Yashwant Mahadik was a visionary who tried to bridge the gap between the army and the Kashmiris through various social initiatives and such was his rapport with some of the latter that even local politicians were concerned; Havildar Hangpan Dada was a pastor in his unit church and was an avid snake-keeper; Lance Naik Mohan Nath Goswami was a kind man who helped the needy and was in the process of building a bigger house for his family, Major Varadaranajan used to say that the toughest battle of his life was making his parents agree to his marriage to a woman from a different community – the list goes on. The authors tried to bring out the emotions but kept melodrama at bay.
I would also say that the families of the soldiers are heroes in their own right. Not only do they live with constant fear, they also have to live with the grief of losing their loved ones – Major Varadarajan’s daughter hides her late father’s pictures so that her mother and grandparents don’t feel “sad”.
But some carry on with the tradition. Col. Mahadik’s wife joined the army as an officer, Lance Hanamanthappa’s wife wants their daughter to join the forces and there are numerous other families where children continue the tradition of national service just like their parents.
June 1, 2018
In this book are tales of amazing bravery and also empathy. In a troubled neighbourhood, the Indian armed forces stand apart with their professionalism which few can match. While many of the stories in the book are those that captured the imagination of the people when they occurred, the book does add considerable new material, providing far greater depth for our understanding.
The first account is about the surgical strikes conducted in Sep 16 in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, after a terror attack in Uri, India. Hugely successful as a retaliatory measure on launch pads for terrorists, it left the Pakistan army fumbling for excuses by claiming that there was no such strike (recorded telephone conversations played by a TV channel clearly disproved this). The Pakistan Chief of Army Staff and others, made a number of lame comments around this time. A large part of the journey into Pakistan occupied Kashmir had to be traversed on foot, with the return journey being even more perilous. The targets were carefully scrutinised and verified before the terror hubs were eliminated.
Another widely reported strike was against terrorists in Myanmar who had attacked an armed forces patrol in Manipur. This again involved a long journey through forests where the team was spotted before reaching the terror camps, but persisted and completed their operation.
There are other stories such as that of Lance Naik Hanmanthappa who survived six days under snow in sub-zero temperature. He sadly passed away in hospital shortly after. This story though does not add much new information. There are other interesting accounts around the rescue from Yemen, and encounters with terrorists in Kashmir.
A book about many brave men and an institution which stays awake, so that a country may sleep peacefully.
The first account is about the surgical strikes conducted in Sep 16 in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir, after a terror attack in Uri, India. Hugely successful as a retaliatory measure on launch pads for terrorists, it left the Pakistan army fumbling for excuses by claiming that there was no such strike (recorded telephone conversations played by a TV channel clearly disproved this). The Pakistan Chief of Army Staff and others, made a number of lame comments around this time. A large part of the journey into Pakistan occupied Kashmir had to be traversed on foot, with the return journey being even more perilous. The targets were carefully scrutinised and verified before the terror hubs were eliminated.
Another widely reported strike was against terrorists in Myanmar who had attacked an armed forces patrol in Manipur. This again involved a long journey through forests where the team was spotted before reaching the terror camps, but persisted and completed their operation.
There are other stories such as that of Lance Naik Hanmanthappa who survived six days under snow in sub-zero temperature. He sadly passed away in hospital shortly after. This story though does not add much new information. There are other interesting accounts around the rescue from Yemen, and encounters with terrorists in Kashmir.
A book about many brave men and an institution which stays awake, so that a country may sleep peacefully.
October 5, 2017
The day I got to know about this book, I knew I had to read it ASAP. Such books are very rare in India and I was hoping for a good read.
The book is an absolute delight. I had various emotions going in my mind reading the stories of 14 brave Indian warriors. A lot of times my eyes were moist but at the same time I felt pride about the fortitude of these men who did something extraordinary.
We are lucky as a country to be equipped with our Armed Forces which is one of the best in the World and this book touches the lives of some of those.
I hope more such books are authored; I would love to read a book about all the Ashok Chakra recipients some day. Big thanks to the 2 authors.
I hope every Indian reads this book and get to know about what our brave men & women endure each and every day in service.
The book is an absolute delight. I had various emotions going in my mind reading the stories of 14 brave Indian warriors. A lot of times my eyes were moist but at the same time I felt pride about the fortitude of these men who did something extraordinary.
We are lucky as a country to be equipped with our Armed Forces which is one of the best in the World and this book touches the lives of some of those.
I hope more such books are authored; I would love to read a book about all the Ashok Chakra recipients some day. Big thanks to the 2 authors.
I hope every Indian reads this book and get to know about what our brave men & women endure each and every day in service.
February 25, 2018
Every Indian needs to read this book!
February 2, 2018
Most stories of the armed forces come up during Republic Day when media finally takes off its attention from steamy news and play its patriotic card. These news are melodramatic, full of tears and chest beating episode but never about the actual event. When the parade closes, the curtains come down. The story remains untold, unread and un-googled. It does come up right after an event though, but more than covering ground reality, newsrooms throng with all sorts of people trying to be heard or shouting an opinion. The concentration from the one who lost his life shifts to the policies, the rules, the regulations, the governance but hardly on the team, the buddy pair and the officers that were on the ground.
Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh’s “India’s Most Fearless”, are the stories we left behind in the Republic Day parade of the cold January morning because it has never affected one’s personal lives. The book gives us an encounter of what actually happened on ground. Who knew what went behind the surgical strike or the last minute details that was planned but had to be changed? What is most interesting about the stories is that one can’t stop noticing, how each member of the armed forces stand up for each other, fight every odds and work as a team. The stories are crisp and not romanticized, you don’t hear pianos and violins playing in the background but you hear gunshots and blasts. That’s how real it gets. What are also captivating are the conditions in which they stay, so far away from civilization, in crazy weather conditions.
In short, it’s a great book to get a quick glimpse about the people who are safeguarding our country.
My take: The book is well crafted. However, inspite of best efforts by the author to bring the stories of raw courage and unflinching conviction towards duty, these stories are just a drop in the ocean of huge personal sacrifices made by Indian Armed Forces in upholding the sovereignty of India. Many stories will still remain untold and unheard. While the successes in battles and wars will continue to be celebrated and remembered during Independence and Republic days but the stories of individual courage will be forgotten and will find no mention except for war diaries of the units and obituaries.
I fear to pick up a book by an Indian author. I dread the language and the effort one puts on making it into a Bollywood movie. What works for me is that the book is a page turner; I’m neither carried away by complicated vocabulary nor blinded by over emotional story of how the jawan said “Jai Hind” in his last breath. The book may not represent what really happens on ground in its entirety but is a good induction to some of the operations that we heard about.
Recommended for all especially to those who are so dead against the army. Read it like a novel and make judgments later.
dwi @chekla
Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh’s “India’s Most Fearless”, are the stories we left behind in the Republic Day parade of the cold January morning because it has never affected one’s personal lives. The book gives us an encounter of what actually happened on ground. Who knew what went behind the surgical strike or the last minute details that was planned but had to be changed? What is most interesting about the stories is that one can’t stop noticing, how each member of the armed forces stand up for each other, fight every odds and work as a team. The stories are crisp and not romanticized, you don’t hear pianos and violins playing in the background but you hear gunshots and blasts. That’s how real it gets. What are also captivating are the conditions in which they stay, so far away from civilization, in crazy weather conditions.
In short, it’s a great book to get a quick glimpse about the people who are safeguarding our country.
My take: The book is well crafted. However, inspite of best efforts by the author to bring the stories of raw courage and unflinching conviction towards duty, these stories are just a drop in the ocean of huge personal sacrifices made by Indian Armed Forces in upholding the sovereignty of India. Many stories will still remain untold and unheard. While the successes in battles and wars will continue to be celebrated and remembered during Independence and Republic days but the stories of individual courage will be forgotten and will find no mention except for war diaries of the units and obituaries.
I fear to pick up a book by an Indian author. I dread the language and the effort one puts on making it into a Bollywood movie. What works for me is that the book is a page turner; I’m neither carried away by complicated vocabulary nor blinded by over emotional story of how the jawan said “Jai Hind” in his last breath. The book may not represent what really happens on ground in its entirety but is a good induction to some of the operations that we heard about.
Recommended for all especially to those who are so dead against the army. Read it like a novel and make judgments later.
dwi @chekla
December 22, 2019
An average book of average stories, full of emotions and lacks action.
What I didn’t like:
The first chapter on surgical strike had too much of background and context setting but too little details on actual execution.
The rescue mission from war zone without firing even a single shot and even by taking permission to dock the ship for 4 hours. I have read real missions performed by other country to rescue hundred thousands and by fighting their way in and out of war Zone.
3 chapters has equipment malfunctioning survival stories which is just pathetic. For instance an aircraft malfunctioned on non mission flight and how pilot survived to come out of it.
Encounter and shoot out of 2-3 terrorists using more than 5 times of manpower and that too with casualties.
Full repetitive ranks mentioned of the officer even what was their rank then and now when the book was published in all Stories as whenever author refers to a character in narration. May be this because I was born and brought up in defence as my parents were in one of the 3 main armed forces of the country so I don’t get fascinated by the ranks and felt irritated by this approach of writer after a while.
What I liked:
The attempt made to showcase valour and courage of various soldiers on which whole country have proud, there are moments which will give you goosebumps on the courage shown by them. But are very few.
The best chapter among all these is the northeast surgical strike mission explained.
The author has tried the best to put emotions as much as possible everywhere he got the chance in story which seems little annoying after a bit, it won’t be wrong to say that it is full emotions and lacks actions.
Overall it’s an average book if you have read Mossad and compare with it in terms of missions, details and writing style otherwise you may like it to be the best as mostly I can see in other reviews.
What I didn’t like:
The first chapter on surgical strike had too much of background and context setting but too little details on actual execution.
The rescue mission from war zone without firing even a single shot and even by taking permission to dock the ship for 4 hours. I have read real missions performed by other country to rescue hundred thousands and by fighting their way in and out of war Zone.
3 chapters has equipment malfunctioning survival stories which is just pathetic. For instance an aircraft malfunctioned on non mission flight and how pilot survived to come out of it.
Encounter and shoot out of 2-3 terrorists using more than 5 times of manpower and that too with casualties.
Full repetitive ranks mentioned of the officer even what was their rank then and now when the book was published in all Stories as whenever author refers to a character in narration. May be this because I was born and brought up in defence as my parents were in one of the 3 main armed forces of the country so I don’t get fascinated by the ranks and felt irritated by this approach of writer after a while.
What I liked:
The attempt made to showcase valour and courage of various soldiers on which whole country have proud, there are moments which will give you goosebumps on the courage shown by them. But are very few.
The best chapter among all these is the northeast surgical strike mission explained.
The author has tried the best to put emotions as much as possible everywhere he got the chance in story which seems little annoying after a bit, it won’t be wrong to say that it is full emotions and lacks actions.
Overall it’s an average book if you have read Mossad and compare with it in terms of missions, details and writing style otherwise you may like it to be the best as mostly I can see in other reviews.
May 14, 2021
Very much recommended. If you have to read one book for stories of valour of our armed forces, pick this book. It discusses stories of bravery of officers from army, air force and navy and sailors and infantry men as well. This book has made me realised one thing: no matter how much I shall boast, but I shall not boast ever to be as brave as these India's most fearless men.
September 26, 2017
WHY IS THIS BOOK DIFFERENT
How do you review a book that is centered on true stories of bravery, courage, sacrifice of the people we have entrusted with protecting us? You certainly cant analyse the content, not beyond a point; civilians don’t have the depth perception and understanding, domain expertise to pass judgement. In that light, I make no comment whatsoever on the content – I am not qualified. The question this review tries to answer is why should a reader read this book, what value it adds, and what extra does it possess? What is it that makes this different? I have raised one such point above.
The next point in this book is the coverage of the Air and Naval wings helps us appreciate the nature and context of these wings, a subject which we aren’t too aware of for various reasons. The difficulties of mounting operations in these wings, and the hardships and challenges they face in the conduct of their activities, the level of mental acuity, quick response and agility required, and the aspect of physical toughness required for even a sailer or a pilot is brought out well enough in these stories. You are left in admiration at all these qualities displayed by each officer in question in the stories, and how they saved the situation under the most trying of circumstances – Yemen evacuation, or be it near-crashes.
THE ARMY
Coming to the Army, what can I say – when I am reading the true and full story of a couple of events that are still fresh in memory- the two Surgical Strikes in Myanmar and Pakistan in the past 2 years? Here you will find their stories; but there is more. Oh, much, much more : and it isn’t all about war and fighting. As we saw above, here too, we see stories that help us understand what makes a soldier a soldier, and that it isn’t war alone that carries risks or requires toughness. This is the book that will drive home the hard point that our Armed Forces are required to be tough every day, every night, 24*7*365. Try doing that on your job, any job. Is this true? Being an Army Colonel’s Son, I know that for a fact. If you believe toughness and hardship is only in battle, read this book.
Read More : https://reflectionsvvk.blogspot.in/20...
How do you review a book that is centered on true stories of bravery, courage, sacrifice of the people we have entrusted with protecting us? You certainly cant analyse the content, not beyond a point; civilians don’t have the depth perception and understanding, domain expertise to pass judgement. In that light, I make no comment whatsoever on the content – I am not qualified. The question this review tries to answer is why should a reader read this book, what value it adds, and what extra does it possess? What is it that makes this different? I have raised one such point above.
The next point in this book is the coverage of the Air and Naval wings helps us appreciate the nature and context of these wings, a subject which we aren’t too aware of for various reasons. The difficulties of mounting operations in these wings, and the hardships and challenges they face in the conduct of their activities, the level of mental acuity, quick response and agility required, and the aspect of physical toughness required for even a sailer or a pilot is brought out well enough in these stories. You are left in admiration at all these qualities displayed by each officer in question in the stories, and how they saved the situation under the most trying of circumstances – Yemen evacuation, or be it near-crashes.
THE ARMY
Coming to the Army, what can I say – when I am reading the true and full story of a couple of events that are still fresh in memory- the two Surgical Strikes in Myanmar and Pakistan in the past 2 years? Here you will find their stories; but there is more. Oh, much, much more : and it isn’t all about war and fighting. As we saw above, here too, we see stories that help us understand what makes a soldier a soldier, and that it isn’t war alone that carries risks or requires toughness. This is the book that will drive home the hard point that our Armed Forces are required to be tough every day, every night, 24*7*365. Try doing that on your job, any job. Is this true? Being an Army Colonel’s Son, I know that for a fact. If you believe toughness and hardship is only in battle, read this book.
Read More : https://reflectionsvvk.blogspot.in/20...
September 24, 2017
India’s most fearless’ – A Review
After “Operation Jinnah”, this is Shiv Aroor’s 2nd book (again in the background of Armed forces) and 1st in non fiction category which he co-authored with another fellow journalist cum author Rahul Singh. As the name suggests, the book is about some of the most daring and fearless operations involving our armed forces (Army/Navy/Airforce all 3 included) and the authors made no mistake in choosing this title as no title would be so apt for a book with such awe inspiring experiences. The Indian armed forces always stood as an epitome of courage, selflessness, patriotism and nation above all philosophy and each of the 14 heroes whose stories the authors covered in this book are a best example to this. Beginning with the daring Surgical Strikes which the Special Forces did in PoK last year around this time to Wing Commander Gaurav Singh Chauhan, each of the chapter in the book was truly inspiring. The fearlessness, selflessness, strategic planning and careful execution of the same by the heroes of this book especially at the times of facing odds against them will surely never miss your attention. The authors have done a good deal of hardwork in bringing the stories(some of which you would most probably be hearing for the 1st time) on India’s truly fearless as well as selfless souls to light via this book. Go and read it if you haven’t, worth your time and money. Thank you Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh for this fabulous book as I really loved every chapter of it.
- Srivatsan V
After “Operation Jinnah”, this is Shiv Aroor’s 2nd book (again in the background of Armed forces) and 1st in non fiction category which he co-authored with another fellow journalist cum author Rahul Singh. As the name suggests, the book is about some of the most daring and fearless operations involving our armed forces (Army/Navy/Airforce all 3 included) and the authors made no mistake in choosing this title as no title would be so apt for a book with such awe inspiring experiences. The Indian armed forces always stood as an epitome of courage, selflessness, patriotism and nation above all philosophy and each of the 14 heroes whose stories the authors covered in this book are a best example to this. Beginning with the daring Surgical Strikes which the Special Forces did in PoK last year around this time to Wing Commander Gaurav Singh Chauhan, each of the chapter in the book was truly inspiring. The fearlessness, selflessness, strategic planning and careful execution of the same by the heroes of this book especially at the times of facing odds against them will surely never miss your attention. The authors have done a good deal of hardwork in bringing the stories(some of which you would most probably be hearing for the 1st time) on India’s truly fearless as well as selfless souls to light via this book. Go and read it if you haven’t, worth your time and money. Thank you Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh for this fabulous book as I really loved every chapter of it.
- Srivatsan V
February 4, 2018
A brilliant composition and collection of stories. There was not a single one which didn't give me goosebumps. The narration of the book, and effective writing is what made the stories appealing.
This book is my first in which I made Alexa read it out to me which helped me visualize it better than what I could have.
I still believe there are more than 14 such stories, and they deserve to be covered in another edition of this book, may be.
This book is my first in which I made Alexa read it out to me which helped me visualize it better than what I could have.
I still believe there are more than 14 such stories, and they deserve to be covered in another edition of this book, may be.
January 27, 2021
Indeed most fearless individuals are covered in the book. Every indian must read before talking about their problems with nation.
August 30, 2019
This book is a must read. Don't ever miss it in your life.
April 1, 2022
The book has its moments and starts off with a very interesting premise. The emphasis on the fact that security forces are at a state of conflict almost all the time is a very important one, since most operations are hidden from the public eye for obvious reasons. However, Aroor fails to tackle the question he starts with sufficiently.
The short stories format does not work for me, maybe it never will. Yet there are a few complaints about the book that still merit some thought. The foremost of them being that Aroor's narration gets stale quiet quickly. I had expected more 'meta' discussions but the book has to/decides to leave them out for the most part. Whether that is because of the sensitive nature of the operations or not is difficult to say. But for the sprinkles of details on equipment and strategy here and there, the book is chiefly about the mental map of the soldier in the heat of the moment. I'm afraid it's neither presented too well nor enough. DNF-ed at 50%
What explains the final act of giving? What is that inscrutable space where the will to survive gives way to an epiphany that death in those circumstances will serve a higher purpose? What is that purpose? The survival of fellow comrades, the extraction of a hostage, successful escape from a marauding enemy
The short stories format does not work for me, maybe it never will. Yet there are a few complaints about the book that still merit some thought. The foremost of them being that Aroor's narration gets stale quiet quickly. I had expected more 'meta' discussions but the book has to/decides to leave them out for the most part. Whether that is because of the sensitive nature of the operations or not is difficult to say. But for the sprinkles of details on equipment and strategy here and there, the book is chiefly about the mental map of the soldier in the heat of the moment. I'm afraid it's neither presented too well nor enough. DNF-ed at 50%
May 11, 2018
In a country which doesn't show much respect towards its soldiers and armed forces, this book is like a welcome breath of fresh air. Kudos to the authors to get access to India's armed forces to get the information behind these remarkable incidents and build compelling stories around them. The stories and incidents are thoroughly engrossing.
In any such book, dealing with repeated superlatives is a challenge. Everything described is the toughest, the highest, the bravest, the most whatever, and it can get so repetitive so as to lose its sheen. However, the authors manage to avoid this remarkably well.
The decision to name India's current PM and not just refer to him as the PM felt out of place in what should be an apolitical book, particularly because the same is not done for incidents during which a different party was in power. However, this is a minor observation that may be misplaced.
Overall, highly recommended reading for anyone even slightly curious about the operations of Indian armed forces. The book spans the military, navy, and air force, and the stories are truly inspiring and heartwarming. Salute to the heroes described in this book and the other, countless, unsung heroes.
In any such book, dealing with repeated superlatives is a challenge. Everything described is the toughest, the highest, the bravest, the most whatever, and it can get so repetitive so as to lose its sheen. However, the authors manage to avoid this remarkably well.
The decision to name India's current PM and not just refer to him as the PM felt out of place in what should be an apolitical book, particularly because the same is not done for incidents during which a different party was in power. However, this is a minor observation that may be misplaced.
Overall, highly recommended reading for anyone even slightly curious about the operations of Indian armed forces. The book spans the military, navy, and air force, and the stories are truly inspiring and heartwarming. Salute to the heroes described in this book and the other, countless, unsung heroes.
July 20, 2020
I am so grateful that Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh wrote this book and made these brilliant stories accessible.
Every chapter/story shared is perfectly size (neither short nor long) and very very captivating. It covers Navy, Air and Land. Every chapter shares a particular incident of an Army personnel along woth what goes behind the scenes in their family.
Each and every chapter makes you feel proud, breaks your heart, makes you cry.. but shall always make you proud of the courage they breath in.
I ugly cried while reading so soo many of these stories. Best book ever!
If you ever doubt or question what Indian Army is capable to do, read this book and wait until these stories prove you wrong.
I am so soo glad that Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh wrote this book. I am so grateful that they took all the pain and efforts to make these brilliant stories availing for us.
Detailed review will be uploaded on my YouTube channel on 15th August (Independence Day) - http://youtube.com/c/KinjalParekh
Every chapter/story shared is perfectly size (neither short nor long) and very very captivating. It covers Navy, Air and Land. Every chapter shares a particular incident of an Army personnel along woth what goes behind the scenes in their family.
Each and every chapter makes you feel proud, breaks your heart, makes you cry.. but shall always make you proud of the courage they breath in.
I ugly cried while reading so soo many of these stories. Best book ever!
If you ever doubt or question what Indian Army is capable to do, read this book and wait until these stories prove you wrong.
I am so soo glad that Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh wrote this book. I am so grateful that they took all the pain and efforts to make these brilliant stories availing for us.
Detailed review will be uploaded on my YouTube channel on 15th August (Independence Day) - http://youtube.com/c/KinjalParekh
October 9, 2017
This is a very well written book. My only complaint is that it's too short! The book starts with a bang and ends on a very uplifting note.
On a side note, I wish we could double down on the body armour for our infantry.
I know that the personnel covered in the stories were personally recommended by the military top brass, but what I would have loved to also read would be the first-hand accounts of UN missions like Op Khukri, of which the only comprehensive write-up so far is on Wikipedia.
I hope there's a part two to the book.
On a side note, I wish we could double down on the body armour for our infantry.
I know that the personnel covered in the stories were personally recommended by the military top brass, but what I would have loved to also read would be the first-hand accounts of UN missions like Op Khukri, of which the only comprehensive write-up so far is on Wikipedia.
I hope there's a part two to the book.
July 29, 2018
No review can do justice to the courage and valour of our armed forces. I was not aware of most of these stories and they should definitely be told more so that we are aware and thankful and proud of the work our armed forces do.
In terms of the book, it was written in a good amount of detail and engrossing. Personal character build ups of the heros was also a great touch. The stories also had a lot of variety- right from surgical strikes and other infiltration douses in J&K to Rajasthan to overseas operations... !
A very good and refreshing read!
In terms of the book, it was written in a good amount of detail and engrossing. Personal character build ups of the heros was also a great touch. The stories also had a lot of variety- right from surgical strikes and other infiltration douses in J&K to Rajasthan to overseas operations... !
A very good and refreshing read!
May 18, 2020
One of the best reads I've had in a while. This book comprises of true stories of the real Indian heroes in the armed forces,
their near encounters with death and stories of their valour doesn't fail to give you goosebumps from time to time.
More than that, the belief of their families, the anecdotes and the charisma which these heroes have even in these situations, is a treat to read.
their near encounters with death and stories of their valour doesn't fail to give you goosebumps from time to time.
More than that, the belief of their families, the anecdotes and the charisma which these heroes have even in these situations, is a treat to read.
September 19, 2021
At the times of jingoistic nationalism, the heroic tales of soldiers often highlighted and celebrated as booster dose for their cheerleaders.
Armies, according to me are the necessary evil for a democratic country, surrounded by hostile territories. But, somehow, I believe that the defense forces are often misused by the political leadership, for which I don't have the best of regards. A strong dose of militant patriotism needs to be injected every now and then into the soldiers, or how else one would give the ultimate sacrifice for one's motherland at the whims and fancies of one's political leaders , ironically that changes every few years.
India is surrounded by several hostile countries, that fuel territorial aggressions time to time, sponsoring insurgents internally and sending rogue terrorists to destroy peace in our country. India's defense force have shown extra-ordinary courage to combat the adversaries in all occasions, keeping intact the sovereignty of our country. Their ultimate sacrifices need to be given due credit. I know, I am safe at home, because our soldiers are protecting our borders.
These 14 stories of the heroics of some of our valiant soldiers, many of who lost their lives in action, would surely give goosebump moments to patriots. Many times I wonder, what a great conviction of love for the motherland would be there in these heroes who do the unthinkable in order to protect the objectives of their mission. Though, we often forget the soldiers from the enemy is also motivated by similar fervour. He is also fighting for not some personal gain, but for intense love for his beliefs, misused by his political masters.
I hope the cheerleaders refrain from using our soldiers' sacrifices to justify the non-military goof-ups of the political leaderships. Just for the record, 'Siachen mein jawaan ladh rahe hain' and 'demonitization' has no link.
As far as this book is concerned, I was not hugely impressed with the writing of the authors. It didn't evoke the intended feeling. Am I too biased? or the heroics of the soldiers depend on who is the ruler at center… wink wink nudge nudge ?
An afterthought - It is often shown in the pop culture that the heroics of the defense force for our external enemies are always glorified, while at the same time, the internal security personnel (our police and home guards) are often shown in the poor light. Why? Is it because the internal forces don't lose their lives during the combat as often as our external force?
Armies, according to me are the necessary evil for a democratic country, surrounded by hostile territories. But, somehow, I believe that the defense forces are often misused by the political leadership, for which I don't have the best of regards. A strong dose of militant patriotism needs to be injected every now and then into the soldiers, or how else one would give the ultimate sacrifice for one's motherland at the whims and fancies of one's political leaders , ironically that changes every few years.
India is surrounded by several hostile countries, that fuel territorial aggressions time to time, sponsoring insurgents internally and sending rogue terrorists to destroy peace in our country. India's defense force have shown extra-ordinary courage to combat the adversaries in all occasions, keeping intact the sovereignty of our country. Their ultimate sacrifices need to be given due credit. I know, I am safe at home, because our soldiers are protecting our borders.
These 14 stories of the heroics of some of our valiant soldiers, many of who lost their lives in action, would surely give goosebump moments to patriots. Many times I wonder, what a great conviction of love for the motherland would be there in these heroes who do the unthinkable in order to protect the objectives of their mission. Though, we often forget the soldiers from the enemy is also motivated by similar fervour. He is also fighting for not some personal gain, but for intense love for his beliefs, misused by his political masters.
I hope the cheerleaders refrain from using our soldiers' sacrifices to justify the non-military goof-ups of the political leaderships. Just for the record, 'Siachen mein jawaan ladh rahe hain' and 'demonitization' has no link.
As far as this book is concerned, I was not hugely impressed with the writing of the authors. It didn't evoke the intended feeling. Am I too biased? or the heroics of the soldiers depend on who is the ruler at center… wink wink nudge nudge ?
An afterthought - It is often shown in the pop culture that the heroics of the defense force for our external enemies are always glorified, while at the same time, the internal security personnel (our police and home guards) are often shown in the poor light. Why? Is it because the internal forces don't lose their lives during the combat as often as our external force?
July 14, 2020
There are few books on Indian military operations. So it is a delight to get your hands on a book like this. The Indian Government and our Military is still hesitant to release official records of various previous wars and military operations. This book however, covers recent Operations by our armed forces, among which the two surgical strikes (in Myanmar against Naga insurgents and the Uri Surgical strikes) have been greatly publicized. If you are reading this book to know more about the Famous Uri Surgical Strikes then you will get disappointed because the details which are in this book are well known. But apart from that, other operations which were relatively less known have been presented with useful details. The majority of the Operations which we find in this book happened in Jammu and Kashmir and are called CI (Counter Insurgency) operations in military terms. In these counter-insurgency operations, soldiers have to challenge the suspect first, and this is the major cause of casualties. This process of "challenging" the suspect is necessary because it prevents civilian casualties, but by doing so, soldiers reveal their position and allow the enemy to respond first. This book makes it clear how this advantage, which the terrorists enjoy, leads to operational casualty. The use of Hindi when the authors are quoting someone makes the writing engaging and it also makes the character more real.
Although details about these operations are not available for the public and the authors of the book had to rely on interviews, I would still have preferred more tactical details and other informations.
Although details about these operations are not available for the public and the authors of the book had to rely on interviews, I would still have preferred more tactical details and other informations.
January 4, 2018
Good to know about our Bravehearts
It's a challenge to write a review for a book that one rates '3 star'. The reason being that one likes the book and yet there is something missing that could have made it to the top rated ones.
The book tells stories of Bravehearts, who against all odds, did heroic stuff. Each chapter tells a different story and each face different challenges. While some perished, many survived. All of the stories are very interesting. It gives us, normal public, a glimpse of what these gallant warriors go through every day. 5 🌟 for the stories.
Where the book fails is in the way a particular story is told. Few stories start with the end and then the event that caused the end and then a flashback. That's wierd. The story should either have the end, flashback and the event or the flashback, the event that led to the end. This makes the reading less engaging as one would like it to be.
To the authors credit, the explanation of each event is clear and in depth. As a reader, one needs to understand what a twin engine failure means and why overcoming the challenge is a big deal. The author covers all such nuances in detail. The author does try to bring in the emotional angle and unfortunately there isn't enough to go about to get connected.
Some of the stories are unbelievable. If not for this book, I would have never ever come to knoe about. Kudos for that.
Overall, a must read even with the minisus.
It's a challenge to write a review for a book that one rates '3 star'. The reason being that one likes the book and yet there is something missing that could have made it to the top rated ones.
The book tells stories of Bravehearts, who against all odds, did heroic stuff. Each chapter tells a different story and each face different challenges. While some perished, many survived. All of the stories are very interesting. It gives us, normal public, a glimpse of what these gallant warriors go through every day. 5 🌟 for the stories.
Where the book fails is in the way a particular story is told. Few stories start with the end and then the event that caused the end and then a flashback. That's wierd. The story should either have the end, flashback and the event or the flashback, the event that led to the end. This makes the reading less engaging as one would like it to be.
To the authors credit, the explanation of each event is clear and in depth. As a reader, one needs to understand what a twin engine failure means and why overcoming the challenge is a big deal. The author covers all such nuances in detail. The author does try to bring in the emotional angle and unfortunately there isn't enough to go about to get connected.
Some of the stories are unbelievable. If not for this book, I would have never ever come to knoe about. Kudos for that.
Overall, a must read even with the minisus.
March 10, 2021
There is something about bravest of braves that can't ever be described in words. Story of each and every martyr brought tears to my eyes. Here is an excerpt from this book;
“‘I sat with Mohan, holding his hands through the night. There was no pulse. He would have done the same for me. He would not have left me.’
Maj. Kumar remembers those moments every day since it happened.
‘Sitting there with him, his flesh cold, I don’t remember anything feeling more unreal. A good part of me said he would wake up. This wasn’t a man who could be felled by bullets. And yet here he was–cold.’
The disbelief stretched out through that rainy night.
‘For many moments, I wondered if this was another one of his tactics. To play dead so he could spring up to kill the remaining terrorists,’ Maj. Kumar says, smiling. ‘I actually waited, hoping that was true. I have lost men before, but I couldn’t come to terms with it. I waited till sunrise to see if he would wake up.’”
He never woke up. He was Lance Naik Mohan Nath Goswami, Ashoka Chakra (P) from 9 Para (SF), Indian Army.
“‘I sat with Mohan, holding his hands through the night. There was no pulse. He would have done the same for me. He would not have left me.’
Maj. Kumar remembers those moments every day since it happened.
‘Sitting there with him, his flesh cold, I don’t remember anything feeling more unreal. A good part of me said he would wake up. This wasn’t a man who could be felled by bullets. And yet here he was–cold.’
The disbelief stretched out through that rainy night.
‘For many moments, I wondered if this was another one of his tactics. To play dead so he could spring up to kill the remaining terrorists,’ Maj. Kumar says, smiling. ‘I actually waited, hoping that was true. I have lost men before, but I couldn’t come to terms with it. I waited till sunrise to see if he would wake up.’”
He never woke up. He was Lance Naik Mohan Nath Goswami, Ashoka Chakra (P) from 9 Para (SF), Indian Army.
March 12, 2019
Having a bad day at work is common for all of us, but what is different for a defense personnel in terms of the consequences of having a bad day ?
1. It is an irreversible day
2. It affects not just you, but your family permanently
There were also some great points raised in this book around the hypocrisy of the media during brief moments of godlike portrayal of the Indian armed forces. But the author also stresses this point : 'The truth is that India remains constantly at war' which is something we all rarely remember.
Reading these tales of exemplary valour, courage and maturity validate an existing notion of mine,
The sacrifices would be impossible to repay.
1. It is an irreversible day
2. It affects not just you, but your family permanently
There were also some great points raised in this book around the hypocrisy of the media during brief moments of godlike portrayal of the Indian armed forces. But the author also stresses this point : 'The truth is that India remains constantly at war' which is something we all rarely remember.
Reading these tales of exemplary valour, courage and maturity validate an existing notion of mine,
The sacrifices would be impossible to repay.
April 23, 2019
I would its a must read for every indian to know who protects them and why they sleep peacefully. The stories are beautifully narrated with vivid description of battlefield. I felt proud reading this and belonging to country from which these heroes come from.
June 11, 2019
Salute to the authors
Stunning narrative found myself fighting tears many times while reading the book. This book will inspire many youngsters to don the uniform and serve the nation.
Stunning narrative found myself fighting tears many times while reading the book. This book will inspire many youngsters to don the uniform and serve the nation.
February 3, 2020
Amazing complication of stories of brave hearts of India. Book gives idea about how war missions are planned behind the scenes. Most intresting part is interviews of officers from Para SF in respective stories.
March 31, 2022
This book is a beautiful composition of 14 stories and incidents of India’s brave hearts. Each chapter is dedicated to a specific army personnel (be it Army, Navy, Airforce), covers his unimaginable courage, selfless act and bravery in hostile situations and behind the scenes in their family.
Do Read it!!
Do Read it!!
May 20, 2022
This is one of those books which has helped me to understand the Armed Forces in a much better way. The lives that these people live are something extraordinary.
The book is an easy and comfortable read.
The book is an easy and comfortable read.
March 30, 2019
Stories of 14 bravehearts of Indian armed forces. Every story is an inspirational one. Jai hind.
December 11, 2025
Excellent read. Well written
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