Title: Men of Steel, Bravehearts of Indian Military
Author: Tanushree Podder
Publisher: Penguin
Type: Paperback
Length: 184 pages
Recommended Age Group: 13/14 years+
This review is written by my husband Abhishek Dwivedi, who is an avid reader, tech geek, long distance runner and a history nerd.
Men of Steel is a gripping tribute to the valour of India’s armed forces, following a consistent structure that begins by outlining the background of each conflict, followed by the inspiring stories of bravery exhibited by our soldiers. Each chapter provides a brief yet compelling glimpse into their journeys, creating a cohesive narrative throughout the book.
The book takes the reader through a chronological account of the various conflicts faced by our nation, illustrating how soldiers from different branches of the armed forces have demonstrated unparalleled courage to safeguard our country. Their heroic actions not only protect the nation but also ensure peace for its citizens, shielding them from the atrocities and horrors of war.
In our daily lives, we often overlook the sacrifices made by these selfless heroes. The sense of security we enjoy is a direct result of their unwavering commitment, as they do not hesitate to lay down their lives for the nation. Each conflict brings its challenges, yet the Kargil War stands out as one of the most difficult battles fought by our forces. This becomes evident from the glossary provided by Tanushree, which explains the various terms commonly used by the armed forces, shedding light on the complexities of military operations.
The book serves as a treasure trove of information for children and adults. Most of us know these events from fleeting news reports in digital or print media, which often fail to convey the true cost of war. Our attention shifts once the conflict subsides, but the sacrifices made by these soldiers and their families endure forever. As Tanushree powerfully illustrates, the normalcy we take for granted comes at a heavy price—one that permanently alters the lives of the soldiers’ families, or in the most tragic cases, takes their lives. The book poignantly highlights how the country honours these “Men of Steel” through memorials, memoirs, and the vivid retelling of their heroic deeds, as Tanushree has done so masterfully.
Throughout the book, readers are immersed in stories of bravery that are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The author’s storytelling vividly paints a picture of the extraordinary challenges these soldiers faced. One of the standout moments for me was the story of Major Ian Cardozo, a man who displayed exceptional valour during both the 1965 and 1971 wars. His courage as both an able-bodied and later a differently-abled officer is nothing short of remarkable. Another gripping account is that of Naik Digendra Kumar, famously known as “Cobra.” His tale of unparalleled gallantry during combat will leave you on the edge of your seat, as it captures the true essence of bravery in the face of adversity. From treacherous weather conditions to challenging terrains and an enemy with a strategic advantage, his story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of our soldiers.
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CLICK & BUY NOW!Disclaimer: Medhansh and his dad, Abhishek are a part of the #kbcReviewerSquad and received this book as a review copy from the publisher.
