Some moments in life arrive quietly yet leave a lasting imprint on your thinking and values. One such rare moment came in November 2014, when I met Retired Major General Gagan Deep Bakshi. He is a decorated Indian Army veteran, respected combat leader, author, and widely known military and war analyst.

Today, he appears regularly on national television discussing wars, conflicts, and India’s national security challenges. Back then, He appeared frequently on NDTV, and I watched him consistently, absorbing his strategic insights and his calm, authoritative presence.

An Unexpected Meeting in a Movie Theatre

That evening, destiny had a different plan. I was at DT Mega Mall, watching the movie Fury, based on World War II tank warfare, with my friends. Major General GD Bakshi was there with his son, largely unrecognized by the crowd around him.

Recognised from his legendary moustache, I gathered courage and politely asked if he was the same war expert frequently seen on NDTV. With a warm smile, he replied, “Yes, I am GD Bakshi.”

A Conversation Beyond Time

That brief confirmation felt surreal. Watching Fury, a war film, alongside a real-life combat commander felt deeply symbolic. My conversation with him lasted less than ten minutes, yet it carried immense depth and meaning.

We discussed the film’s realism, armoured warfare, and the intensity of tank battle scenes. I also shared my own SSB interview experiences and a once-held dream of serving in the Indian Army.

A Presence That Inspires

Though destiny chose a different path for me as tech corporate professional, that moment felt complete. Standing beside a man who commanded troops in 1971 Indo-Pak War and Kargil-era operations was humbling.

His aura reflected discipline, clarity, and unwavering commitment to India. I took a photograph with him, capturing a memory that time cannot fade.

Lessons That Stay for Life

Looking back, I still remember his passion for the Army and deep love for the nation. That meeting reinforced one powerful lesson.

Whatever path you choose, align your vision with nation-building and higher purpose. When commitment is honest and lifelong, the nation and world eventually recognises it.

Just as we all continues to recognise Retired Major General GD Bakshi today.

#Year2014 #GDBakshi #MajorGeneralGDBakshi #GaganDeepBakshi #IndianArmy #WarVeteran #MilitaryAnalyst #NationalSecurity #IndianDefense #Patriotism #ArmyLife #DefenseExpert #WarAndStrategy