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India’s Bravehearts: Untold Stories from the Indian Army
Ever wondered what a soldier’s life is really like? India’s bravehearts is a rare inside account of the Indian Army by one of its most celebrated officers. This book tells gripping stories of death-defying operations and daring surgical strikes, the intense training soldiers have to undergo to become battle-fit, what life is really like on the LoC and the lives of the young men who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Page-turning, thrilling and heart-breaking, you will see the Indian Army and our soldiers close up, like you have never seen them before.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published December 4, 2020
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310 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 17, 2020
Very few times in my life I come across a book where I am unable to review it. This was a such mesmerizing read.
I find myself incapable of rating this book any lesser than a fantastic five.
Lt Gen Satish Dua, in this closer to his heart book tells us stories of valour, heroism, brotherhood of India’s real heroes.
Lt Gen Dua explains terms which may not be known to common folks like us. The language of the book is simple. The flow is natural and doesn’t feel overly drawn out.
Every short story takes us to the Line of Control (LOC). It transports us to the very battlefield where these brave hearts fought for our nation and its sovereignty.
This book forces us to think of the people who make it possible for us to live our life comfortably, while at that very time their lives are on line to enable that.
My only complaint is that I want next book with more short stories of India’s Brave hearts.
Excellent book, something which every Indian should read.
Thank you Lt Gen Dua, for this book and also for your service to our nation!
This review is also available here
I find myself incapable of rating this book any lesser than a fantastic five.
Lt Gen Satish Dua, in this closer to his heart book tells us stories of valour, heroism, brotherhood of India’s real heroes.
Lt Gen Dua explains terms which may not be known to common folks like us. The language of the book is simple. The flow is natural and doesn’t feel overly drawn out.
Every short story takes us to the Line of Control (LOC). It transports us to the very battlefield where these brave hearts fought for our nation and its sovereignty.
This book forces us to think of the people who make it possible for us to live our life comfortably, while at that very time their lives are on line to enable that.
My only complaint is that I want next book with more short stories of India’s Brave hearts.
Excellent book, something which every Indian should read.
Thank you Lt Gen Dua, for this book and also for your service to our nation!
This review is also available here
October 30, 2021
Lt Gen Satish Dua spent ~30 years in the Indian Army, including many years in J&K which has been the hotbed of activity for the Indian armed forces. And given that he has retired only about 3 years ago, his narration was bound to be exciting.
Lt Gen Dua has written the stories in a very easy style, shorn of any jargon, which makes it extremely comprehensible to even a lay reader. He brings out the personal touch in his narration which makes one appreciate the fact that the soldiers are also human beings. While I am sure he has many more stories to tell, he brings forth a set which are based in different locations and circumstances, thereby giving the reader a diverse enough flavour.
Unfortunately, his book suffers from two serious shortcomings. Firstly, given the recency of some of these events, he is unable to go into details on most of them probably because they are classified or could result in exposing the working style of the Indian Army. Secondly, and which to me is a much more serious issue, is that he has not really gone in depth into any of the events that he narrates. As a result, each of them end up becoming anecdotes which he might be recounting post a couple of drinks near the fireplace on a cold evening. Many of the stories have so much potential in terms of the broader context, the human elements, and the finer details. As a result, the book of a battle hardened professional comes out rather amateurish.
A fast an interesting read nevertheless, for those keen to get a better perspective on the life of the armed forces.
Lt Gen Dua has written the stories in a very easy style, shorn of any jargon, which makes it extremely comprehensible to even a lay reader. He brings out the personal touch in his narration which makes one appreciate the fact that the soldiers are also human beings. While I am sure he has many more stories to tell, he brings forth a set which are based in different locations and circumstances, thereby giving the reader a diverse enough flavour.
Unfortunately, his book suffers from two serious shortcomings. Firstly, given the recency of some of these events, he is unable to go into details on most of them probably because they are classified or could result in exposing the working style of the Indian Army. Secondly, and which to me is a much more serious issue, is that he has not really gone in depth into any of the events that he narrates. As a result, each of them end up becoming anecdotes which he might be recounting post a couple of drinks near the fireplace on a cold evening. Many of the stories have so much potential in terms of the broader context, the human elements, and the finer details. As a result, the book of a battle hardened professional comes out rather amateurish.
A fast an interesting read nevertheless, for those keen to get a better perspective on the life of the armed forces.
October 21, 2022
A book every Bharatiya should read.
February 10, 2022
Having the privilege of learning from the author himself, this book makes my head bow in respect and eye wet. A must-read for everyone, both Indian and beyond.
January 15, 2021
Lt. General Dua is somebody I have admired from distance. He comes across as somebody who is approachable, witty and determined. I am not even going to his valour and grit which is without a doubt if the highest order. When his book came out, I immediately ordered. This is a light read on some of his interesting anecdotes of J&K. The more is less from him.
My most memorable anecdote remains when the snake which bit him instead of causing catastrophic harm to him and actually died :)
I am sure he has taken light hearted approach to describe his stories of valour but as I said, more is less from him. On Army day today, when I complete this book, I can just salute the brave men in uniform, we sleep because you stay awake at night. Thank you.
My most memorable anecdote remains when the snake which bit him instead of causing catastrophic harm to him and actually died :)
I am sure he has taken light hearted approach to describe his stories of valour but as I said, more is less from him. On Army day today, when I complete this book, I can just salute the brave men in uniform, we sleep because you stay awake at night. Thank you.
June 2, 2025
India’s Bravehearts is not just a book—it's a heartfelt tribute to the courage, discipline, and unwavering dedication of the Indian Army. Authored by Lt. Gen. Satish Dua, the book takes readers through real-life experiences from his own tenure, as well as those of fellow soldiers, Special Forces, para-commandos, and more.
Each chapter unfolds like a window into the life of a soldier—gritty, inspiring, and deeply human. What makes this book truly stand out is its honesty and humility. The narratives aren't dramatised, instead, they are raw and real, filled with emotion and a sense of purpose that only those who have worn the uniform can understand.
It's difficult to review or rate a book that reflects the lived experiences and sacrifices of our protectors. These are stories of valour that allow civilians like us the comfort of peace. What I found most captivating were the behind-the-scenes insights, how operations are meticulously planned, how soldiers are trained, and what goes through their minds when facing danger. These are not details you hear often, and they command immense respect.
Reading this book has only deepened my admiration for the Indian Army. It serves as a powerful reminder of the selflessness and bravery that protect our nation's freedom, often in silence and without recognition.
A must-read for every Indian, not just for the stories, but for the spirit they carry.
Each chapter unfolds like a window into the life of a soldier—gritty, inspiring, and deeply human. What makes this book truly stand out is its honesty and humility. The narratives aren't dramatised, instead, they are raw and real, filled with emotion and a sense of purpose that only those who have worn the uniform can understand.
It's difficult to review or rate a book that reflects the lived experiences and sacrifices of our protectors. These are stories of valour that allow civilians like us the comfort of peace. What I found most captivating were the behind-the-scenes insights, how operations are meticulously planned, how soldiers are trained, and what goes through their minds when facing danger. These are not details you hear often, and they command immense respect.
Reading this book has only deepened my admiration for the Indian Army. It serves as a powerful reminder of the selflessness and bravery that protect our nation's freedom, often in silence and without recognition.
A must-read for every Indian, not just for the stories, but for the spirit they carry.
February 5, 2021
India's Bravehearts
Lieutenant General Satish Dua (Retd)
This is a book about the personal encounters of Lt Gen Dua while serving in the army. It's a touching book with many brave encounters with the enemies. It talks about the Uri surgical attacks, giving us a first person account about the amount of hardwork and planning that goes into before any encounter.
Each chapter is divided into one personal encounter of a certain attack or incident. Each story is unique and gives as an inside account of how things are planned. There are some touching stories of how while stationed at Poonch, they were able to help and rehabilitate a civilian family of a woman and her four daughters. These women, in the absence of a male family member were exploited sexually and abused, and Lt Gen Dua helped the woman by giving her a job in the army and helped settle the elder daughter's marital disputes.
Another chapter talks about how happy he felt while helping the martyred widows of force who worked under him get remarried. It's heartening to read about how hard it was for him to convey the message of martyred brave officers to their families.
A must read for all ages to know about out bravehearts, who are braving extreme conditions to protect us abd save our country.
Lieutenant General Satish Dua (Retd)
This is a book about the personal encounters of Lt Gen Dua while serving in the army. It's a touching book with many brave encounters with the enemies. It talks about the Uri surgical attacks, giving us a first person account about the amount of hardwork and planning that goes into before any encounter.
Each chapter is divided into one personal encounter of a certain attack or incident. Each story is unique and gives as an inside account of how things are planned. There are some touching stories of how while stationed at Poonch, they were able to help and rehabilitate a civilian family of a woman and her four daughters. These women, in the absence of a male family member were exploited sexually and abused, and Lt Gen Dua helped the woman by giving her a job in the army and helped settle the elder daughter's marital disputes.
Another chapter talks about how happy he felt while helping the martyred widows of force who worked under him get remarried. It's heartening to read about how hard it was for him to convey the message of martyred brave officers to their families.
A must read for all ages to know about out bravehearts, who are braving extreme conditions to protect us abd save our country.
July 20, 2025
A collection of super charged short stories. Not just of bravery but day to day routine tasks which give a deep insight into the life of a soldier straight from the experiences of Lt Gen Satish Dua who was the strategist for URI Surgical Strikes. How his one snake catching incident inspired a young student to become a major, how a bullet just escaped inches above a soldiers head. So many more interesting stories which give a glimpse of how much the army does for us civilians and we hardly have thanked them enough. His story telling will give you an idea that he’s deeply empathetic, kind, supportive and respects women a lot. At the same time he’s extremely brave and very sharp strategist with so so so many successful operations even when odds were against him.
This should be read by every Indian citizen to have a glimpse on what army does for us.
I would highly recommend this book for people who want to start reading, the writing style is so fluent and simple that one can read and understand without much effort and enjoy the narration while developing deep respect. ❤️🙏🏼
This should be read by every Indian citizen to have a glimpse on what army does for us.
I would highly recommend this book for people who want to start reading, the writing style is so fluent and simple that one can read and understand without much effort and enjoy the narration while developing deep respect. ❤️🙏🏼
February 22, 2021
I love reading this book. Highly recommend this book to Indian army. After reading this book I have only one question in my mind what they are made of. How a middle class school teacher can say " I have only son and I gave it to nation". They are best at their job being philosophical about life. The best thing about the book is no jingoism or hyper national chest thumping. It show multifaceted character of a soldier. They also cry feel vulnerable and have multiple interest in their personal life. Their story supreme sacrifice, brotherhood ,intelligence, bravery, presence of mind will not let you to drop the book.
April 28, 2022
A TOUCHING SAGA
A very well written book ,I almost finished in one go.Credit to Gen Dua
for bringing out not only operational aspect but also social &emotional aspects of warfare so lucidly & exceptionally well.
Gen Dua should also share his experience for the period between his tenure of CO &CORP COMMANDER
Got sentimental while reading as it took me down through the memory lane back to late 70s when I was RMO of a Assam Rifles Bn during thick of insurgency
Col cs sharma(retd)
A very well written book ,I almost finished in one go.Credit to Gen Dua
for bringing out not only operational aspect but also social &emotional aspects of warfare so lucidly & exceptionally well.
Gen Dua should also share his experience for the period between his tenure of CO &CORP COMMANDER
Got sentimental while reading as it took me down through the memory lane back to late 70s when I was RMO of a Assam Rifles Bn during thick of insurgency
Col cs sharma(retd)
August 8, 2021
First hand account from a person who lived through the operations in J&K, a general who is soldier down his boots. He is someone who has moved up the ladder from joining a unit as a YO and moving up to commanding the unit.
Anyone who has a taste in exploring the insides of life in infantry should read this book definitely once.
The stories are small because this is his first attempt on the book but by and large a definite recommendation.
Anyone who has a taste in exploring the insides of life in infantry should read this book definitely once.
The stories are small because this is his first attempt on the book but by and large a definite recommendation.
August 19, 2021
Finished this book in one sitting. Real life experiences and stories of our courageous army men. Anecdotes wrt. commando training, life at LoC, operations, surgical strikes etc. Very easy to understand book by Lieutenant General Satish Dua Sir (Retd.) who's served in the armed forces for approximately four decades.
November 3, 2021
The book is fine retellings of events during this service. It bought home the sacrifices and hard work the men in uniform does. Though this book could have been written better, as in some instance the telling felt in adequate, this might also be due to confidentiality of the event. Over a good book for defense readers.
May 21, 2022
Giving us the first hand account of what is it like to be an officer in the Indian army, this book shows how much courage, determination and faith in the fellow soldiers is required to fulfill the duty of an officer.
It's a short but exhilarating book that even a non reader can't put down.
Tremendous job done by Satish Dua sir.
Looking forward to his upcoming works.
Thankyou sir.
It's a short but exhilarating book that even a non reader can't put down.
Tremendous job done by Satish Dua sir.
Looking forward to his upcoming works.
Thankyou sir.
January 22, 2021
The book is written for a layman who knows nothing about the Army life in general. The author Lt. Gen. Dua has shared his various life experiences while he served in the Indian Army especially his experience in counterinsurgency Ops in Kashmir.
Could have been written in a better way.
Could have been written in a better way.
January 30, 2021
Excellent read with a compilation of interesting anecdotes covering all areas you would ask for! Left me teary eyed a couple of times. My only complain is that I could finish reading it in a single sitting and was left wanting for more!
April 12, 2022
Must read to understand to all those men in uniform and their families
Must read to understand to all those men in uniform and their families.Don't have any word to express.. Really a good read
Must read to understand to all those men in uniform and their families.Don't have any word to express.. Really a good read
October 6, 2024
As an Indian Army fan myself, this book took me through the journey of our soldiers. I loved the way Ly Gen Sathish Dua sir put down the brief stories of his 30 years journey and how he mentioned about his battalion and mates. Would love to read more about Indian Army. Jai Hind
December 19, 2020
Every story is really worthwhile and inspiring, and how a soldier always keep the benchmark of the indian armed forces at the top most standard.
Never wanted this to end.
Never wanted this to end.
December 24, 2020
Gives an insight of army life. I loved the book and hope that he writes another book explaining his life in the army in detail
December 28, 2020
It's a phenomenal read. The stories in this book are like gems. The best part is that the book feels more of a personal memoir, which adds another flavour for the reader.
It's a must read for all.
It's a must read for all.
January 15, 2021
Breezy read of interesting stories from the Kashmir battle front. The stories of the brave young officers is humbling
February 4, 2021
Unputdownable
February 17, 2021
Great 👌
March 13, 2021
It felt like reading a soldier's journal. Good and easy read.
March 17, 2021
Author's experience and his path of learning and teaching . The living that brings thrills ..
A must read for fans of Indian Army
A must read for fans of Indian Army
June 8, 2021
One of the best insights of what actually happens on the borders.A must read for every citizen of India.
Jai hind.
Jai hind.
July 11, 2021
It was great to learn that how Indian Army tackle terrorist even in the odd situation.
January 24, 2022
Good read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews