In Search of True Brotherhood: A Soldier’s Reflection
After serving nearly three decades in the Indian Army, I retired as a Colonel, though I carry with me a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the institution that shaped my character and taught me many of life’s most important lessons. The Army remains one of the finest organisations in the country, built on principles of discipline, leadership, and service. Yet, as life often does, it has also led me to question some of the ideals I once held unquestioningly. Last December, our family faced a profound tragedy; the sudden and untimely and tragic loss and passing of my younger cousin, Prof. Sameer Khandekar , at the age of 50. His loss was not only a devastating personal blow to our family but also a great loss to the nation. As a Senior Professor at IIT Kanpur, his contributions to academia, research, and community welfare were unparalleled. Amidst the grief of those two days in Kanpur, I also happened to witness something extraordinary—the sheer depth of camaraderie and co...