March 22-23, Dehradun

Defence Literature Festival 2025

Unveiling Stories of Valour

Event Starts in:

Shaurya Saga 2025: Celebrating Valor, Heritage, and Youth

Unique Defence Festival Event empowering Youth through Defence Stories of Valour & Traditions, organized by THRIVE Society, Dehradun.

THRIVE: Empowering Youth, Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Innovation

THRIVE – Trust for Heritage, Research, Innovation, Vocation & Education, is a dedicated non-governmental organization committed to empowering the youth of India. By promoting innovative initiatives, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering holistic education, THRIVE bridges the gap between tradition and modernity. Through events like Shaurya Saga, the organization celebrates the spirit of India while inspiring the next generation. Join us in this journey of learning, growth, and patriotism.

Shaurya Saga:

The Shaurya Saga Literature Festival is a two-day event dedicated to honoring the valor and sacrifices of the Indian Defence Forces. With a special emphasis on Uttarakhand’s military legacy, the festival brings together writers, military dignitaries, and youth to inspire patriotism and pride in India’s defense history.

Organized By

Trust for Heritage, Research, Innovation, Vocation & Education. THRIVE is an NGO committed to empowering youth through innovative educational initiatives and fostering a deeper connection with our heritage.

Key Highlights

  • Panel Discussions: Experts and dignitaries discuss Uttarakhand’s pivotal role in India’s military history.
  • Book Readings: Renowned authors read excerpts from their works focused on the courage & sacrifices of Indian soldiers.
  • Interactive Sessions: Engage directly with writers and military leaders to explore the ethos of patriotism.

Why Attend?

  • Celebrate the military heritage of Uttarakhand, a proud contributor to India’s armed forces.
  • Pay homage to the valor and sacrifices of Indian soldiers through literature.
  • Gain insights from distinguished speakers and authors.

Who Will Be There?

  • Renowned Authors: Literary figures who spotlight the bravery and experiences of the Indian Defence Forces.
  • Military Dignitaries: Respected figures sharing inspiring stories and personal insights.
  • Engaged Youth and Residents: Students & residents passionate about patriotism and military history.

Shaurya Chronicles: Events That Inspire and Unite

Experience a series of engaging events celebrating the valor, heritage, and spirit of the Indian Army.

10:00 amAuditorium

Registration

10:20 amAuditorium

Welcome address

10:30 amAuditorium

Echoes of Valor – From Colonial Garrisons to Indian Glory

Tracing India's military evolution from colonial rule to modem strength, exploring battles,& strategic independence, with insights on Uttarakhand's rich martial legacy and Dehradun's historic role in shaping India's defense forces.
Book : Kupwara Codes By Maj. Manik M Jolly (Retd.)

Speaker : Lokesh Ohri
11:00 amAuditorium

Spirituality in Military Leadership

Exploring the Indian military's shift towards holistic soldier development, this session delves into the integration of yoga & mindfulness in training, decision-making, and mental fortitude for modem warfare challenges.
Book: Beyond the Battalefield By Lt. Gen. A.K. Singh (Retd.)
11:15 amAuditorium

Battles of the Brave: India’s Grit Amidst Challenges in the 1960s

In its early years, India faced two wars (1962 & 1965) against stronger adversaries. With limited resources but unyielding courage, India fought back, overcame immense challenges, and reshaped its defense strategy forthe future.
Book : The Secret of Leifeng Pagoda By Prof. (Dr.) Ruby Gupta Prof. Humanities & HOD, English, Indian Military Academy
Book : Airwarriors By Wing Commander Arijit Ghosh (Retd.)
Discussant: Maj. Gen. Dev Arvind Chaturvedi (Retd.)
11:45 amAuditorium

26/11-Lessons for India’s Security Future

The 26/11 Mumbai attacks weren't just a terrorstrike; they were a reality check on India's security preparedness. This session examines its lasting impact, evolving threats, and India's defense readiness today.
Speaker: Dr. K.R. Nautiyal, ADG, Coast Guard (Retd.)
Speaker: Ashok Kumar, DGP, Uttarakhand (Retd.)
Speaker: Dr. Kuldeep Datta
12:15pmAuditorium

Bravehearts of War – PVC

Honoring India's bravest, this discussion delves into books on Param Vir Chakra awardees Maj. Dhan Singh Thapa and Capt. Yogendra Singh Yadav, exploring their extraordinary courage,sacrifices, and battlefield heroics.
Book: The Warior Gorkha By Madhulika Thapa Monga
12:30 pmAuditorium

Shifting Frontiers: Demographics & National Security

Demographic shifts in India's border states pose strategic challenges, impacting both intermal stability & extermal defense. This session explores their implications on national security, sovereignty & the geopolitical landscape ofthe region.
Speaker: Lt Gen (Dr.) J S Negi, Former Commandant IMA (Retd)
Speaker: Ashok Kumar, DGP, Uttarakhand (Retd.)
Speaker: Dr. Kuldeep Datta
01:00 pmAuditorium

Defenders of Tomorrow: Fueling Patriotism & Purpose

Speaker: Col. Ajay Kothiyal, KC, SC, VSM (Retd.)
10:30 amAuditorium

Patriotism in Frames

From war epics to heroic rescues, cinema shapes our perception of defense and adventure. This session explores how films portray military valor, real-life inspirations, and the balance between authenticity and creative storytelling.
Book: The Gir Who Loved a Spy By Kulpreet Yadav
Book: Soldier's Gir: Love Story of a Para Commando By Swapnil Pandey
Speaker: Col. Bhaskar Bharti (Retd.)
11:00 amAuditorium

Thick in Action – 1971

Amidst the chaos of 1971, India's military strategy, battlefield decisions, and heroic tales shaped Bangladesh's liberation. This session revisits untold stories and the war's lasting impact on history.
Book 1971: Charge of the Gorkhas & Other Stories By Rachna Bisht Rawat
Book The Liberators of Bangladesh: Glorious Battles from the 1971 Indo-Pak War By Deepak Surana
Book Men of Steel By Tanushree Podder
11:30 amAuditorium

War Front to Future – Innovations in Defence Technology

From battlefield strategies to cutting-edge innovations, this discussion explores India's defense technology advancements, global comparisons, and Uttarakhand's role in fostering startups and MSMES for a resilient and self-reliant future.
Book: Global Tumult: India As A Pole Star By Sujan Chinoy
Speaker: Lt. Gen. Rakesh Sharma (Retd.)
Speaker: Dr. Sanjeev Joshi, Director, DIBER, Haldwani
12:00 pmAuditorium

Thick in Action – Kargill 1999

High-altitude battles, unyielding courage, and strategic brilliance defined 1999. This sessionuncovers untold stories, experiences, and the war's significance in shaping India's military doctrine and national consciousness.
Book: Nimbu Saab: The Barefoot Naga Kargil Hero By Neha & Diksha Dwivedi
12:30 pmAuditorium

The Warrior’s Legacy – Remembering General Bipin Rawat

India's first Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, left an indelible mark on national security. This session reflects on his leadership, vision, and enduring legacy, especially his deep connection to Uttarakhand.
Speaker: Prof. Surekha Dangwal, VC, Doon University
Speaker: Brig. Shivendra Singh (Retd.)
Speaker: Tarini Rawat
Speaker: Col. Satyapal Parmar (Retd.)
01:00 pmAuditorium

Woman of Valor

Behind every brave soldier stands a woman of resilience-mothers, daughters, and wives who sacrifice, serve, and inspire. This session honors their courage, strength, and unwavering commitment to the nation.
Book : The Saga of a Braveheart: Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar Shaurya Chakra By Shakuntala Ajit Bhandarkar
Book : I Am A Soldier's Wife: The Life and Love of Toni Lidder By Geetika Lidder
Book: Olive Green To Beauty Queen By Lt. Col. Ankita Srivastava (Retd.)
01:30 pmAuditorium

Closing Session

Keynote Speakers

Well known industry leaders and emerging talents

  • Uma Prasad Thapliyal

    Director of the History Division (Retired)

    Uma Prasad Thapliyal

  • Colonel Ajay Kothiyal

    Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra (Retired)

    Colonel Ajay Kothiyal

  • Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon

    Lieutenant General

    Kanwal Jeet Singh Dhillon

  • Lt Gen Satish Dua

    Former Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Retiered)

    Lt Gen Satish Dua

  • Lokesh Ohri

    Anthropologist and Historian

    Lokesh Ohri

  • Swapnil Pandey

    Bestselling Author

    Swapnil Pandey

  • Chetna Lumb Bedi

    Author

    Chetna Lumb Bedi

  • Tanushree Podder

    Travel writer and novelist

    Tanushree Podder

  • Ian Cardozo

    Maj. Gen. (Retired)

    Ian Cardozo

  • Kulpreet Yadav

    Indian novelist, screenwriter and actor

    Kulpreet Yadav

  • Rachna Bisht-Rawat

    Journalist and writer

    Rachna Bisht-Rawat

  • Shiv Kunal Verma

    Indian writer, military historian, photographer, and filmmaker

    Shiv Kunal Verma

  • Yogendra Singh Yadav

    Captain

    Yogendra Singh Yadav

  • Sandeep Saket & Anusha Nandakumar

    Writers

    Sandeep Saket & Anusha Nandakumar

  • Kirandeep Singh & Nirvan Singh

    Authors

    Kirandeep Singh & Nirvan Singh

  • Amit Bagaria

    Author

    Amit Bagaria

  • Harsha Sharma

    Journalism

    Harsha Sharma

  • Dr. Hariom Panwar

    Poet

    Dr. Hariom Panwar

Be a Volunteer or Patron

Play a vital role in the success of Shaurya Saga by contributing your time, skills, or support. Whether as a volunteer or a patron, join this patriotic journey to honor valor, empower youth, and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

Shaurya Saga: Defending the Nation, Celebrating the Heroes

  • Shaurya Saga: Defending the Nation, Celebrating the Heroes honors the bravery and sacrifice of India's defense forces, recognizing their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation.

  • ``A Tribute to Our Heroes`` The Indian Armed Forces embody courage, dedication, and selflessness. Every day, they protect our borders and safeguard our freedom. We salute their unwavering commitment and honor their sacrifices, as they continue to serve our nation with pride and valor. Their strength and resilience inspire us all.

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Partners/Sponsors

A huge thanks to all our amazing partners. We couldn’t have a conference without you!

Battle of Bands

Unleash the power of music as bands compete to showcase their talent and ignite the stage with electrifying performances. Experience an unforgettable evening of rhythm, energy, and pure passion!

Conference Venue

Location that you'll be looking for

Experience the charm of Dehradun Doon at the Best Proposed University, nestled amidst the serene beauty of Uttarakhand. The perfect blend of nature and modern infrastructure makes it an ideal location for Shaurya Saga 2025. Join us in this picturesque setting to celebrate valor and heritage.

Venue

Doon University, Dehradun
Uttarakhand, 248001
Auditorium

Transport

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