Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 3: Brigadier Sushil Tanwar of army today described his book ‘Mukhbir’ as a reflection of the experiences of people in Jammu and Kashmir and their complex relationship with the Indian Army.
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The book contains 17 stories based on real-life experiences of locals and soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir. “These stories are about Jammu and Kashmir, about its people, about the connection between civilians and security forces. I believe readers will relate to them and feel these are their stories,” Brigadier Tanwar said during an interaction today about his newly launched Hindi short story collection, Mukhbir, during the second edition of the nine-day-long Chinar Book Festival in Srinagar.
The title story, Mukhbir, centers on Gul Wani, a local from Baramulla who serves as an informer for the Army. He said the story explores Wani’s motivations and personal dilemmas. “The word ‘Mukhbir’ is often seen as a slur. I hope after reading the story, people will look at it differently.”
Drawing from 15 years of service in Jammu and Kashmir, Tanwar said the book covers a wide range of experiences, including military operations, daily life, local culture, and the destruction caused by Pakistan-backed militancy. “These stories reflect the emotions, biases, and compulsions witnessed on both sides over the past three decades,” he said.
He praised the book festival’s growing impact, noting strong participation by both children and adults. “This is a much-needed platform in Kashmir. It encourages reading and builds understanding through dialogue,” he said.
Tanwar announced that an English edition of Mukhbir will be released in December. His next novel, Farishta, based in Surankote, is expected in January, followed by another short story collection from Jammu.
The Chinar Book Festival was organised through the collaborative efforts of the National Book Trust, India (Ministry of Education, Govt of India) and the District Administration Srinagar.
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