Decoding the Army ethos

In a hall full of people, WIZ met rizz as our not so ‘Tiny’ Lt Gen KJS Dhillon (retd) launched his second book, Wafadari Imaandari Zimmedari: War Room to Boardroom, on Thursday evening at SD College-32.

Advertisement

Tall and commanding, the Lt Gen, Tiny Dhillon to his family, friends and colleagues, regaled his audience with interesting anecdotes. Wafadari Imaandari Zimmedari highlights the step-by-step process of making of a leader in the Army by imbibing the military ethos of following traditions, adhering to regimentation, holding fast to honour codes, balancing emotions, respecting family values, making hard choices, and above all, withstanding unbearable pressure in any given situation.

The evening was enriched by Lt Gen Dhillon’s storytelling, which ranged from inspiring to humorous, often interspersed with thoughtful shayari that resonated with the audience. A particularly touching moment occurred when he presented a signed copy of his book to the youngest attendee.

The chief guest on the occasion was General VP Malik (retd). He complimented Lt Gen Dhillon for educating the masses on leadership in simple, soldiers’ language.

The Army veterans on stage were joined by the book’s editor, Premanka Goswami, who said his perspection of the Indian Army changed after meeting the decorated soldier.

In a jovial mood, Lt Gen Tiny shared how the publishing house said a firm no to the Hindi title for his first book. Also, they had rejected his picture as he looked too fierce for their liking. They, in fact, made a portrait of him in which he looked like yesteryear Bollywood actor Jeetendra. But Tiny would have none of it and told them that he would rather withdraw his manuscript. Lo and behold! The next morning all his demands were met and Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye became a hit!

The same publisher soon requested him to write another book — one with a Hindi title, a fiercer-looking picture and the same simple language which he used in the previous one. This one too has a promising start, as even at the pre-order stage, reportedly Wafadari Imaandari Zimmedari: War Room to Boardroom has already gone into reprint. It’s published by Penguin Veer.

“A good commander never loses sight of humanity. Leading with heart is what sets the greatest leaders apart,” he emphasises.