India has always been a warrior civilisation. Yodha II proves it with 1,100 images and launches at Kashmir LitFest.
Covering the period from the British Crown’s takeover in 1858 to the Kargil War of 1999, Yodha II is the second volume in a series that begins with the epics and traces India’s military heritage through empires, the 1857 Uprising, and independence. Varma — who mapped Siachen-area routes before the conflict began — argues that India’s philosophical tradition of Ahimsa is always paired with its lesser-quoted second line, which justifies the use of force when dharma is threatened. The discussion covers military geography as the essential foundation of military history, and the dangerous myth that India has never been a fighting nation.
About the Speakers:
Lt. Gen. Devendra Pratap Pandey, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM is a retired senior officer of the Indian Army. He formerly served as Commandant of the Army War College, Mhow, and as General Officer Commanding of the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps. He was also the first Director General of the Territorial Army. His leadership and contributions have been pivotal in both operational and institutional roles within the armed forces.
Shiv Kunal Verma is a renowned journalist, filmmaker, and author with deep engagement in India’s military history. His acclaimed documentaries include Salt of the Earth and The Standard Bearers, while his books such as 1962: The War That Wasn’t, 1965: A Western Sunrise, and The Long Road to Siachen have become essential reading. He is currently developing the Value Education Program, a nationwide educational initiative aimed at instilling national awareness and values among students.
Ramnik Singh Mann is a Gursikh nationalist, scholar, and outspoken commentator on socio-political, religious, and policy issues. With an Army background and academic credentials as a civil engineer and MBA, he blends strategic insight with cultural rootedness. He leads a prominent construction firm based in Chandigarh and is known for his sharp, unfiltered perspectives in public discourse.
Aadi Achint is the founder of Def Talks by Aadi Achint, a digital platform known for insightful conversations on defense, strategy, and national security. He is a keen geopolitical observer whose analyses and interviews have gained significant recognition among strategic affairs enthusiasts in India and beyond.
