In a remarkable achievement that underscores his multifaceted talents, retired Lieutenant General KJS ‘Tiny’ Dhillon was honored with the Crossword Books Award for Best Non-Fiction in the Popular Choice category for his inaugural publication, Kitne Ghazi Aaye Kitne Ghazi Gaye.
The prestigious award was bestowed upon Dhillon by esteemed journalist Bachi Karkaria during an elegant ceremony held at The Lalit Mumbai on Sunday. This accolade marks a significant milestone in Dhillon’s post-military career, showcasing his ability to translate his extensive experiences into compelling literature.
Kitne Ghazi Aaye Kitne Ghazi Gaye delves into the relentless pursuit of terrorists, focusing particularly on the enigmatic leader Ghazi, a key figure behind the devastating Pulwama terror attack. The book not only examines the strategic efforts to eliminate such threats but also provides an intimate glimpse into Dhillon’s personal journey from childhood to his role as Commander of the Chinar Corps in the volatile region of Kashmir.
Through vivid storytelling, Dhillon recounts the formidable challenges he faced from the tender age of three, intertwining his life story with pivotal events that have shaped India’s security landscape. His narrative offers a first-hand perspective on controversial issues such as the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, the brutal assault on an Indian security convoy in Pulwama district, the Balakot airstrikes, and the historic abrogation of Article 370. These accounts shed light on the complex socio-political, economic, and law-and-order ramifications of these incidents.
During his speech at the awards ceremony, Lt Gen Dhillon dedicated his book and the award to the four influential women in his life across four generations. “My mother, who bravely fought a wild animal to save my father, sacrificing her life in the process; my maternal grandmother, who nurtured me into a soldier; my wife, who stood by me and raised our family single-handedly during my deployments; and my children, who provided unwavering support while I served on the front lines,” he expressed with heartfelt emotion.
He further paid tribute to his fellow soldiers, stating, “With a prayer on my lips and pride in my heart, I dedicate this award to the brave Indian soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. I honor all the soldiers and officers who stood by me for four decades, teaching me invaluable lessons and fighting the enemy alongside me.”
Expressing gratitude towards the Crossword for recognizing his work, Dhillon emphasized his enduring identity as a soldier. “I would like to thank Crossword for this honor. While I may now be an author, I will always remain a soldier at heart,” he affirmed.
Looking ahead, Dhillon teased his forthcoming book, provisionally titled Wafadari Imandari Zimmedari … War Room to Board Room. Published by Penguin Random House India, the sequel is anticipated to launch in 2025, promising to continue his exploration of duty, leadership, and the intricate dynamics between military strategy and corporate governance.
Lt Gen KJS Dhillon’s literary success not only celebrates his personal achievements but also highlights the profound narratives that emerge from the lives of those who serve on the front lines. His work is a testament to resilience, honor, and the enduring spirit of those dedicated to safeguarding the nation.
