IPKF-Undying Be Their Memories by Major General Arjun Muthanna
My take on the book:
In this compelling book, IPKF — Undying Be Their Memories, Major General Arjun Muthanna chronicles the Indian Peacekeeping Force’s (IPKF) intervention in Sri Lanka’s civil war from 1987 to 1990. Drawing from his firsthand experiences as a Brigade Commander in the IPKF, Muthanna offers a unique and insightful perspective on the force’s operations, challenges, and sacrifices.
The book meticulously traces the IPKF’s journey from its entry into Sri Lanka amidst initial optimism to the subsequent trials and tribulations faced by the Indian troops. Muthanna explains the complex political and ethnic dynamics that fueled the Sri Lankan conflict, highlighting the IPKF’s efforts to maintain peace. He also addresses the eventual withdrawal of the force in the face of mounting opposition and casualties.
Muthanna’s personal anecdotes and insights enrich the narrative, adding a human dimension to the otherwise dry military accounts. He pays homage to the bravery and sacrifices of the IPKF soldiers, many of whom laid down their lives in the line of duty, ensuring their memories remain undying.
While the book’s primary focus is on the IPKF’s military operations, it also delves into the broader political and social context of the Sri Lankan conflict. Muthanna’s analysis of the factors that led to the IPKF’s intervention and subsequent withdrawal provides valuable insights into the complexities of peacekeeping operations and the intricate dynamics of the Sri Lankan conflict
The book stands as a significant contribution to the historical record of the Sri Lankan civil war and the IPKF’s role within it. A more detailed discussion of the IPKF’s impact on the Sri Lankan population would have added depth to the book. Inclusion of more information on the international reaction to the IPKF’s intervention would have also provided broader context.
Overall, this is a well-written and informative book that offers a valuable perspective on the IPKF’s role in the Sri Lankan civil war. It is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, peacekeeping operations, and the complexities of this conflict.
My rating:
4/5.
This post is part of the Bookish League blog hop hosted by Bohemian Bibliophile.
Matheikal
Good to know about this book.
Suchita Agarwal
Your review reminded me of a book I had read – Beyond Fear by Ian Cardozo 🙂
Manali
I’m not into non-fiction much but this seems like a good one. All credit to your review for making me interested.
Preeti Chauhan
Having read a few books about insurgency and Veerappan too, I had a good idea about the situation in Sri Lanka and the Tamil tigers.This book should expand my knowledge. Thanks for the review.
Samata
Di The review is crisp but would have loved to know more about this book. I do read non fiction books but I need to know more about other’s opinions before I pick one. Thanks for the review will check this book
Ambica Gulati
Definitely a book I would love to read. I like real life stories of people from the armed forces.
Ahana Rao
How smart to include in your review that you’re likely to be interested in this book if you have these following interests! I think I should think of incorporating that. Thank you for that little inspiration! Also, lovely review, the book truly sounds a little heavy to me, but it’s important to have these books out there and I’m so glad you’d chosen to read and review/talk about it!
Tarang
Although I am not much into nonfiction, this sounds like an interesting book. Personal anecdotes help you connect with real life stories.
Harshita Nanda
Personal anecdotes make a non-fiction book so engrossing no? wonderful review.
kanchan bisht
Reading your blog I remembered a book I recently read, “All the Lives We never lived.” Reading war stories always fill the heart with pain
Tulika
Even though I’m not a non-fiction reader, personal views and stories make for an interesting read.
Modern Gypsy
I don’t like reading about military strategies per se, this does sound like an informative and important book, adding to the historical context and narrative of the Sri Lankan civil war.
Ninu Nair
This seems like an interesting book…thank you for the review, marking it for my TBR!
Ritu Bindra
I recall the IPKF operation as a teen when one of my friends’ fathers was deputed. Later we found out he didn’t return. Honestly, India had no business being there. I would surely like to give the book a read. Thanks for sharing about it.
Anand N
Good writing. I like army related books and I should add this to my reading hut.