Archive · 7 Aug 2025
Lt. Gen. Shakti Gurung's Memoir Debunks Gorkha Stereotypes
Lt.
Gen.
Shakti Gurung, a high-ranking Gorkha officer, wrote a book about his life in the Indian Army.
He wanted to show that Gorkhas, a group of soldiers, can be leaders, not just followers.
His book talks about his experiences fighting terrorism and other missions.
It also shares how he broke down old ideas about Gorkhas, showing they are capable of leading just like anyone else.
The book also includes stories of his work and his team rescuing people.
Lt. Gen. Shakti Gurung, the first Gorkha to reach the Indian Army's highest ranks, released a memoir.
The memoir, titled "Breaking the Glass Ceiling," details Gurung's 40-year career and challenges faced.
Gurung aimed to dispel assumptions about Gorkhas, including their perceived inability to lead.
He served in counter-terrorism operations and as a defense attache in Myanmar.
The book also covers Gurung's operations against ULFA in Assam.
- Who
- Lt. Gen. Shakti Gurung, a retired Indian Army officer.
- What
- Lt. Gen. Shakti Gurung's memoir, "Breaking the Glass Ceiling", discusses his military career and challenges he overcame.
- When
- Gurung served for 40 years and retired in 2014.
- Where
- Jammu and Kashmir, Northeast, Myanmar, and Assam.
- Why
- To share his experiences and dispel misconceptions about Gorkhas.
British View
Gurung's View
Leadership Capabilities
British View
Gorkhas can be led but cannot lead.
Gurung's View
Gorkhas are capable of leadership.
- Memoir Title
- Breaking the Glass Ceiling
- Author
- Lt. Gen. Shakti Gurung (retired)
- Army Rank
- Lieutenant General
- Primary Role
- Military Secretary (Retired)
- Years of Service
- 40 years