Lieutenant Gen Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon, PVSM, UYSM, YSM, VSM is a retired General Officer of the Indian Army and the Chairperson of the Board of Governors (BoG) of IIT Mandi.
Q. Sir, your upbringing seems to have instilled a strong sense of patriotism and admiration for the armed forces. Can you elaborate on how your family background influenced your desire to join the army?
A. Absolutely my family background has played a pivotal role in shaping my aspirations towards serving in the armed forces. From a young age, I was surrounded by stories of valour and sacrifice, with multiple generations of my family having served in various military capacities. Both my grandfather and uncle had illustrious careers in the army, and their experiences, along with the environment of patriotism at home, deeply influenced my decision to pursue a career in the armed forces. Their dedication to duty, coupled with the pride they took in serving the nation, instilled within me a profound respect for the military and a strong desire to contribute to the defence of our country.
Q. You mentioned the importance of embracing change and utilizing modern tools like the internet positively. How do you think today’s youth can leverage these resources to contribute positively to society?
A. Indeed, the advent of technology, particularly the internet, has opened a plethora of opportunities for today’s youth to make meaningful contributions to society. By harnessing the power of information and connectivity, young individuals can engage in various avenues of social impact and civic engagement. Whether it’s through online education platforms, social media activism, or digital innovation, there are countless ways for young people to leverage technology for positive change. By staying informed, collaborating with like-minded individuals, and utilizing their skills and talents effectively, today’s youth have the potential to address pressing social issues, drive innovation, and create a brighter future for all.
Q. It’s fascinating to hear about the dichotomy of toughness and softness within soldiers. Can you elaborate on how soldiers balance these aspects in their personal and professional lives?
A. Certainly, Soldiers are often perceived as embodying strength and resilience, traits that are indeed essential in their professional duties. However, it’s important to recognize that behind the tough exterior lies a depth of compassion and empathy. In their personal lives, soldiers navigate the complexities of human emotions with the same level of integrity and courage that they display on the battlefield. While they may be tasked with making difficult decisions and confronting challenges head-on, they also possess a profound sense of humanity and empathy towards others. This balance between toughness and softness allows soldiers to fulfill their responsibilities with compassion and integrity, even in the face of adversity.
Q. Your statement, “If you want to write history, then someone has to make history,” is quite profound. Can you share a specific instance where you felt you were making history, perhaps during the events surrounding the abrogation of Article 370?
A. Absolutely the events surrounding the abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir presented a historic moment not only for the nation, but also for me personally. As part of the planning and execution team during this pivotal time, I felt a profound sense of responsibility to ensure the success of this significant decision. Every action we took, every decision we made, felt like a part of history in the making. There was a palpable sense of urgency and determination among all involved, knowing that we were contributing to a monumental shift in the political landscape of our country. It was a humbling experience to be at the forefront of such a historic moment and to witness firsthand the impact of our collective efforts on shaping the future of our nation.
Q. Your book, “Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye,” offers insights into the life of a soldier, particularly in Kashmir. What motivated you to write this book, and what message do you hope readers take away from it?
A. Writing “Kitne Ghazi Aaye, Kitne Ghazi Gaye,” stemmed from a desire to provide readers with a candid portrayal of life in the army, especially in conflict-ridden regions like Kashmir. My motivation was twofold – to shed light on the sacrifices and challenges faced by soldiers in the line of duty and to inspire readers with stories of resilience, camaraderie and unwavering dedication to the nation. Through this book, I hope to convey the realities of military life, including the emotional toll of separation from loved ones, the complexities of operating in volatile environments, and the profound sense of purpose that drives soldiers to overcome adversity. Ultimately, I aim to instil in readers a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by our armed forces and a renewed sense of pride in our nation’s defenders.
Q. Writing about your experiences in the army seems like a significant endeavour. Can you share the process behind deciding to document your story in a book, and what impact do you hope it will have on readers?
A. Documenting my experiences in the army was a deeply personal journey that stemmed from a desire to share the realities of military life with a broader audience. After retiring from active service, I felt compelled to chronicle my journey – from the trials and tribulations of training to the rigours of combat and the bonds forged with comrades-in-arms. My hope is that this book will offer readers a glimpse into the sacrifices, camaraderie, and unwavering dedication that define life in the armed forces. By sharing my story, I aim to inspire readers to pursue their goals with courage, integrity, and a sense of duty to their country. I hope that readers will come away from this book with a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by our armed forces and a renewed appreciation for the values of honour, courage, and selflessness that define military service.
Q. You mentioned working on another book focussing on military leadership ethos. Can you provide a glimpse into what readers can expect from this upcoming project?
A. Certainly my upcoming book, tentatively titled “Wafadari, Imaandari, Zimmedaari,” is a culmination of my four decades of experience in the military, focusing on the principles of loyalty, honesty, and responsibility that are integral to military leadership ethos. This book aims to explore the applicability of these principles beyond the confines of the military, delving into how they can be relevant in civilian and corporate settings. Through personal anecdotes, insights, and reflections, I aim to shed light on the profound impact these tenets can have on leadership effectiveness and organizational culture.
Q. When can we expect to see your manuscript, and when is the book expected to be released?
A. The manuscript for my book is currently in the final stages of completion, and I anticipate it will be ready within the next 3 to 4 months. As for the release date, we are targeting either the end of this year or early next year to ensure that the book receives the attention and promotion it deserves. However, the exact time line will depend on the publishing process and any unforeseen delays that may arise.
Q. Could you share your thoughts on what you’re currently celebrating in your life, and what you miss from your time in the military?
A. In reflecting on my life thus far, I find myself celebrating the invaluable relationships I’ve cultivated over the years – the bonds of friendship, camaraderie, and mutual respect that have enriched my journey. These connections, both within and outside the military, serve as a testament to the profound impact of human interaction and shared experiences. Additionally, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and recognition bestowed upon me by my country, which have allowed me to serve with purpose and dedication. As for what I miss from my time in the military, it’s undoubtedly the sense of purpose and duty that permeated every aspect of my life. The camaraderie forged in the crucible of shared challenges, the unwavering commitment to a cause greater than oneself, and the clarity of mission are aspects that I hold dear. While I cherish the memories and lessons learned during my military career, I also recognize the importance of embracing new chapters in life with the same vigour and determination.
Q. You mentioned the concept of the “Circle of Ignorance.” Could you elaborate on that?
A. Certainly the concept of the “Circle of Ignorance” illustrates the dynamic interplay between knowledge and ignorance as we navigate through life. When we are young and inexperienced, our circle of knowledge is limited, encompassing only what we have learnt thus far. Within this circle lies our realm of understanding and familiarity. However, as we venture into the unknown and expand our horizons, our circle of knowledge grows, pushing the boundaries of our ignorance further outward. This phenomenon highlights the paradoxical nature of knowledge – the more we learn, the more we realize how much we don’t know. It serves as a humbling reminder of the vastness of human knowledge and the endless pursuit of learning. Embracing the circle of ignorance encourages us to remain curious, open-minded, and receptive to new ideas and perspectives, thus fostering personal and intellectual growth.
Q. You spoke about the importance of loving what you do. Can you expand on that idea?
A. Absolutely at the core of fulfilment and success lies a deep-seated love and passion for what we do. Whether it’s our chosen profession, our daily responsibilities, or even our own self-care practices, approaching life with love and enthusiasm can profoundly influence our experiences and outcomes. When we love what we do, we are more motivated, engaged, and resilient in the face of challenges. Furthermore, viewing our endeavours through the lens of love imbues them with purpose and meaning, transforming mundane tasks into meaningful contributions. This mind set shift not only enhances our personal satisfaction, but also fosters a positive work environment and enriches our relationships with others. Ultimately, by cultivating a love for our work and ourselves, we can unlock our full potential and lead more fulfilling lives.
Q. Lastly, could you share a favourite line or message from your book for our listeners?
A. Certainly one of the central themes of my book is the transformative power of love – love for our work, our relationships, and ourselves. In reflecting on this principle, I am reminded of a poignant line from my book: “Approach everything in life with love, for in love lies the key to unlocking the fullness of our human experience.” This message serves as a gentle reminder to embrace life with an open heart and a spirit of love, for it is through love that we can truly thrive and make a meaningful impact on the world around us.