`Nagrota Under Siege’ book by Bhaavna Arora released 

Chandigarh, November 24, 2024: Penguin released the much-awaited book ‘Nagrota Under Siege’ by Bhaavna Arora here on Sunday, which is a powerful narrative of Indian Army valor and sacrifice.

Among others, Maj Gen Neeraj Bali SM; Lt Gen A K Sharma, UYSM, YSM, SM; Lt Gen Deependra Singh Hooda, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM & Bar, ADC and Meenu Shekhawat were present during the occasion.

In a compelling tribute to the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army, ‘Nagrota Under Siege’ recounts the harrowing events of November 29, 2016, when the Nagrota Army Base in Jammu and Kashmir came under a brutal terrorist attack.

Heavily armed infiltrators, driven by vengeance after the Indian Army's successful surgical strikes just two months earlier, launched a merciless assault from the forested perimeter of the camp.

With families housed within the base and lives at stake, the Army personnel displayed extraordinary courage and resilience, mounting a defense that epitomized the true spirit of sacrifice.

This meticulously researched account by bestselling author Bhaavna Arora takes readers deep into the heart of that fateful day, offering an unflinching look at the heroism that saved countless lives and left an enduring legacy of bravery.

Bhaavna, one of India’s most beloved authors, is known for her bestselling novels that bring to light true stories of heroism. A teacher, corporate trainer and educationist, Bhaavna has an enduring passion for documenting the experiences of the Indian Armed Forces. Her devotion to their valor and sacrifice has shaped her writing, breathing life into narratives that honor their legacy.

In Nagrota Under Siege, she poignantly captures the human side of military bravery, reflecting the depth of her research and the intensity of her storytelling. This work is a testament to her belief in glorifying the lives of those who serve, as well as the personal journeys of the families they leave behind.

Talking to the media Bhaavna said,” Nagrota Under Siege’ talks about the courage and bravery of the individuals who were involved in the operation. The book gives a first-hand account of the way the entire herculean operation was conducted in the most valorous manner by our security forces. The reader would come to know full well about the perilous and nerve-racking situation faced by the officers and their families who were caught unawares in that life threatening ordeal,”

She further said,” Every dawn heralds a new life waiting in the wings. To find oneself awake at this juncture is a reminder that life has once again emerged a winner against the darkness and is all set to explore fresh avenues. But this was not true for many who woke up in the wee hours of the morning of November 29, 2016, in Nagrota Cantonment by the deafening sounds of heavy firing and bursting of grenades.”

It was that fateful morning when three Fidayeens, with the help of some locals, sneaked into the heavily guarded army area and wreaked havoc that claimed seven precious lives of our gallant soldiers. The terrorists were equipped with arms, ammunition and food that could last them a week and had come with the nefarious plan to create a hostage like situation in the Cantonment. While they were knocking at the gates of the families residing in that area, the Indian Army was leaving no stone unturned to nab them.

The Army, including the paramilitary forces, equipped with the best of skills and training nailed them all and foiled a dangerous situation of our people being held hostages. It took two years of dedicated and coordinated efforts by the Jammu & Kashmir police and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to bring to book the local supporters who were hand in glove with the Fidayeens and provided them with every possible help.

Prepare to be inspired by a story that will forever change how you perceive courage. ‘Nagrota Under Siege’ will be available nationwide this December, a must-read for anyone seeking a closer look at the sacrifices of India’s unsung heroes.