What do a popular Punjabi war cry, a World War II martyr, and a curious link between Bengaluru and a battlefield weapon have in common? According to former Army Chief General Manoj Naravane, they are all part of a lesser-known tapestry of stories that shape India’s military legacy.

In his latest book, The Curious and the Classified: Unearthing Military Myths and Mysteries, General Naravane steps away from conventional war narratives to explore the folklore, oddities and enduring legends of the Indian armed forces. The book promises to go beyond official histories, offering readers a glimpse into the stories that soldiers pass down informally—stories that are often as intriguing as they are revealing.

From the widely recounted presence of Baba Harbhajan Singh along the Indo-China border to the tragic sinking of INS Khukri during the 1971 war, Naravane stitches together accounts that balance fact with the mystique that surrounds military life. The narrative also ventures into lighter, unexpected territory—such as the tale of Pedongi, a military mule remembered for its extraordinary service, and the origins of soldiers’ call signs.

The former Army Chief, who served from December 2019 to April 2022, brings to the book not just institutional knowledge but also a personal touch. Drawing from over four decades in uniform, he blends meticulous research with anecdotal warmth, making the work accessible to both defence enthusiasts and general readers.

What sets the book apart is its tone. Rather than a dry recounting of events, it leans into humour, curiosity and reflection—highlighting how traditions, camaraderie and a sense of duty are shaped not just by battles fought, but by the stories that endure long after.

General Naravane, commissioned into the Sikh Light Infantry in 1980, has held key operational, peacekeeping and diplomatic roles across some of India’s most sensitive frontiers. A recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and other distinguished honours, he has, since retirement, remained active in public discourse through writing and policy engagement.

The Curious and the Classified marks another step in his literary journey, following his debut novel The Cantonment Conspiracy in 2024. Away from policy discussions and writing desks, Naravane is known to spend his time golfing or with his young grandson—a quieter contrast to a career defined by high-stakes decision-making.

With this book, he invites readers to look beyond the battlefield and into the rich, often surprising world that lies behind the uniform—where history meets memory, and fact blends with folklore.