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Balidan

Stories of India's Greatest Para Forces Operatives

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Balidan

Written by: Swapnil Pandey
Narrated by: Vasundhra Bose
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About this listen

Few possess greater courage, yet remain in oblivion, than the Indian Para Special Forces. To these brave officers worthy owners of the Balidan badge is entrusted the safety of the most perilous heights and the annihilation of the darkest underbellies of terrorism. The legacy of these warriors is shrouded in mystery and legend. So secretive are their missions that little is known about them beyond code names like Dagger, Ghost, Viper or Desert Scorpio. In this remarkable collection of tales of valour beyond measure, Swapnil Pandey lifts the curtain on some of the greatest Special Forces officers and introduces listeners to Colonel Santosh Mahadik, Captain Tushar Mahajan, Brigadier Saurabh Singh Shekhawat, Subedar Major Mahendra Singh and others. Based on more than 200 interviews with the friends and families of these men, conducted over one year and multiple trips to various Special Forces Units near the LoC and the LAC, Balidan seeks to resurrect these men from the shadows for the first time ever.

©2023 Swapnil Pandey (P)2024 Audible Singapore Private Limited
Asia India Military & War South Asia

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the story itself was outstanding, who am I to give review to it.

I like everything in this book the narration the way of conduct the facts the information they provide the motivation it gives everything it gave me a way of living.

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Powerful Stories, Exceptional Narration

Balidan, authored by Swapnil Pandey, beautifully explores narratives of courage, strength, and love for one's country. " Pandey's storytelling is beautifully expressive and profoundly touching, elegantly portraying the true essence of sacrifice with utmost sensitivity. Every story evokes deep emotions, captivating readers and leaving them in admiration of the incredible resilience of the human spirit.

The experience is elevated even more by Vasundhara Bose's flawless narration. Her voice elegantly brings the stories to life, infusing them with profound depth and emotion that harmoniously enhance Pandey's writing. The audio book offers an unforgettable journey, thanks to Bose's skilful narration and profound connection with the essence of every character.

Swapnil Pandey and Vasundhara Bose have collaborated to produce a remarkable creation that pays tribute to the sacrifices made by our heroes, all the while captivating the hearts and minds of the audience. This is a must for those who appreciate tales of bravery and dedication.

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Men of the Indian Special Forces

Narration - the narrator didn't pronounce some basic words like "Corps" properly. Narrator also pronounced some Indian names badly. This could have been done better. Many a times, the narrators voice energy changed when it was not appropriate for the scene being talked about.

Story - there are many heroes amongst us and within the armed forces of India, there are the special forces men who by the very nature of their job are asked to exhibit valour on a daily basis. The stories in this book did not do justice to the heroism of the men talked about. Somehow the research was written in a very uninspiring manner that frequently I had to look up the same stories online for more details and help to understand the context being talked of. This book could have been done much better.

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