Wisdom from the Frontlines: Books Written by Indian Military Leaders

No discussion on military writings can begin without mentioning the Kargil War of 1999, one of the most defining moments in India’s modern military history. In Kargil: From Surprise to Victory, former Army Chief General VP Malik, PVSM, AVSM, provides a ringside view of the conflict that caught India off guard.

The book is not just about tactics and strategy; it is about the grit of soldiers who scaled impossible heights under enemy fire. Malik candidly discusses the challenges faced by the army—from intelligence lapses to logistical nightmares—and how they were overcome through sheer determination. It is a powerful reminder of how leadership during crises requires both calm judgment and decisive action.

Lt Gen KJS Dhillon, fondly known as ‘Tiny’ Dhillon, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, VSM, captures the essence of his life in uniform and beyond in this inspiring work. Wafadari, Imaandari, Zimmedari weaves together anecdotes from his military service in some of the toughest counterinsurgency operations with the lessons he carried into civilian life.

What makes this book stand out among books by Indian military leaders is its simplicity and moral clarity. The three values—loyalty (Wafadari), honesty (Imaandari), and responsibility (Zimmedari)—are presented not as abstract ideals but as practical pillars that guided Dhillon’s journey. It’s as much a leadership manual for corporate boardrooms as it is a soldier’s memoir.

Lt Gen BS Dhaliwal, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, earned the nickname ‘Tsunami’ for his sheer energy and impact. His memoir brings alive the story of a Sapper who navigated a career filled with challenges—engineering feats, operational hurdles, and personal tests of resilience.

Unlike many military writings that focus purely on battles, The General Called Tsunami emphasises the quieter but equally vital aspects of military life: infrastructure, innovation, and perseverance. For readers curious about the less-visible yet critical roles within the army, this memoir is a revelation.

The autobiography of General VK Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC, is a candid account of a soldier who rose to the highest rank in the Indian Army. With co-author Kunal Verma, he narrates a life marked by battlefield courage and controversies that followed him into the corridors of power.

What makes Courage and Conviction compelling is its honesty. Singh does not shy away from discussing internal challenges within the army, the strains of counterinsurgency operations, and even his own battle against systemic issues. It is both a personal memoir and a commentary on the larger institutional frameworks of India’s defence establishment.

Few military books carry the weight of history quite like In the Line of Duty. Written by Lt Gen Harbakhsh Singh, VrC, who commanded during the 1965 India-Pakistan war, the book provides first-hand insights into a conflict that tested India’s resilience.

Singh’s prose is direct and powerful, capturing the chaos and heroism of war. For students of military history, this book remains a cornerstone reference on operational leadership and the human element of warfare. It is a timeless reminder of the sacrifices of a generation that defended India in a critical period.

The memoir of Lt Gen YK Joshi, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VrC, SM, ADC, embodies the spirit of courage that defines the Indian soldier. Known for his leadership during the Kargil conflict, Joshi recounts his journey from a young cadet to a decorated officer commanding troops in extreme conditions.

What stands out in Who Dares Wins is the authenticity of battlefield experience. Joshi offers a close-up of the decision-making, camaraderie, and emotional struggles that soldiers endure in combat. This book is both a tribute to his comrades and a valuable piece of military literature.

Lt Gen Satish Dua, PVSM, UYSM, SM, VSM, brings to life decades of service in Kashmir, one of the world’s most complex and volatile regions. His memoir blends operational details with deeply personal reflections, painting a vivid picture of what it means to live under constant fire.

Beyond tactics and operations, A General Reminisces highlights the human side of soldiering—compassion for civilians, the stress on families, and the moral dilemmas that accompany counterinsurgency operations. It is a deeply moving addition to books written by military leaders.

For readers seeking a deeper intellectual exploration of India’s defence policies, Maj Gen Amarjit Singh’s Gyan Chakra offers a structured framework of India’s military strategy. It is less a memoir and more a strategic discourse, where theory meets practice.

This book demonstrates how India’s military must adapt to geopolitical realities, technology, and hybrid warfare. For students, policymakers, and anyone interested in national security, it provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the big picture.

Admiral SM Nanda, PVSM, AVSM, known as the ‘Man who Bombed Karachi’, left an indelible mark during the 1971 war when the Indian Navy executed a daring strike on Karachi harbour. His memoir takes readers behind the scenes of this audacious operation and the broader role of the Navy in securing victory.

The Man Who Bombed Karachi is as much about leadership as it is about naval warfare. Nanda’s confidence, planning, and execution exemplify how boldness at the right moment can alter the course of history.

Not all military literature comes in the form of individual memoirs. Air Warriors by Wg Cdr Arijit Ghosh compiles stories of courage from the Indian Air Force, offering a panoramic view of valour in the skies.

From daring rescue missions to combat sorties, the book brings alive the indomitable spirit of air warriors who often operate in life-or-death situations. It’s an inspiring read for those who want to explore beyond ground battles into the aerial domain of warfare.

Books by military leaders are more than chronicles of wars—they are windows into the human spirit tested under fire. They tell us about grit, sacrifice, and the moral compass that guides men and women in uniform. For readers, they offer leadership lessons, historical knowledge, and above all, inspiration.

Whether it is Gen VP Malik’s analysis of Kargil, Adm Nanda’s daring naval memoir, or Lt Gen Dhillon’s life lessons for the boardroom, these works remind us that courage comes in many forms. And by reading them, we not only honour those who served but also learn timeless lessons about resilience, responsibility, and integrity.

Also read: Command & Conviction: The Relationship Between India’s Prime Ministers and Military Chiefs