In this Telugu podcast episode, we had the honor of speaking with Lieutenant General A Arun Sir, who offered a rare and deep perspective on life in the Indian Army. He shared the lesser-known side of military life — not just the discipline and duty, but the emotional strength it demands. From life at National Defence Academy, often referred to as the “Maker of Men,” to the lifelong bonds soldiers form through shared hardships, his stories paint a vivid picture of what it truly means to serve. He opened up about the toughest mission of his life and what it felt like to be the first officer to get shot in that operation.
Lt Gen Arun Sir also spoke in detail about how military operations are conducted, the life-threatening risks involved, and the stark contrast between the responsibilities they carry and the modest salaries they receive. He touched on the emotional cost of being away from family and how soldiers cope with that burden. He recalled the Nimbharam injury and hospital incident, offering a raw and human side to a soldier’s journey.
From answering light-hearted yet important questions about marriage and expectations from a life partner, to sharing insights about the powers and decision-making responsibilities held at the highest levels, he gave us a glimpse into a world few truly understand. He also reflected on his friendships with Pakistani officers at UN, offering a balanced and hopeful view on the evolving mindsets of the younger generation across the border.
The episode dives into everything from the realities of war zones and the treatment of prisoners of war--Kargil conflict and the Bangladesh Liberation War. As Chief of Strategy, he explained his critical role and how multi-use military technologies are shaping the future. He leaves us with a powerful message — that the military is not built for war, but to uphold peace. His perspective on life, leadership, and resilience might just change the way you see the world.
