#Review: Men of Steel by Tanushree Podder

Men of Steel
Author: Tanushree Podder
Publisher: Penguinsters

If you’ve ever found yourself moved by tales of grit and patriotism, Tanushree Podder’s ‘Men of Steel’ is a book that demands your attention. This collection of eighteen riveting tales from the Indian Armed Forces is more than just a chronicle of military battles and victories—it’s a tribute to the indomitable spirit of soldiers who have laid down their lives for the country.

Podder’s narrative style strikes a delicate balance between a soldier’s straightforwardness and a storyteller’s heart, making the book an emotional rollercoaster. From the icy frontiers of Siachen to the blazing deserts of Rajasthan, the stories transport you to some of the harshest terrains on Earth, where these men didn’t just face a human enemy but also nature at its most unforgiving. The vivid descriptions bring to life both the battlefield and the raw, unfiltered courage of the soldiers.

The chapters on the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and the Kargil War are especially compelling, offering not just a factual account but an emotional retelling that made my pulse quicken. The details of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, the Balakot airstrike, and the 2020 Galwan Valley skirmish are gut-wrenching and eye-opening, providing a soldier’s perspective on events most of us only know from news headlines.

What sets this book apart is its capacity to inspire. These aren’t just stories; they are lessons in resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering love for one’s country. As Lt Gen. Abhijit Guha aptly puts it, this book will inspire a future generation to emulate these heroes, to strive for something bigger than themselves. The soldiers depicted here are not just warriors—they are symbols of the highest form of patriotism, the kind that has no place for vanity or self-interest.

“Men of Steel” is not just for military enthusiasts; it’s for anyone who needs a reminder of what it means to be truly brave. Podder’s work doesn’t just ask us to remember these heroes—it challenges us to live up to their legacy. A must-read for every Indian, and indeed, for anyone who values courage and honour.

Best wishes to the author!

Find the book here.