Saga of Ladakh

THE SAGA OF LADAKH. By Maj Gen Jagjit Singh. Pp. 155, 14 illustrations, 4 maps, 1983, (Vanity Books, Delhi, Rs 65).

This is primarily a book on the Indo-China war of 1962. It covers the action in Ladakh sector. However for a trekker or a mountaineer it gives an insight into how these areas have the other potential. Trekking around Chushul there were many hills and mountains which had no meaning to me. After reading this book these barren Gurung and Magar Hills came alive. Galwan valley speaks of history. You understand why so many jawans are brav¬ing hardships there. You can see them in a historic perspective.

Along with the military manouvres, the book gives a graphic descriptions of valleys and terrain of Ladakh. This itself leads to far better understanding of these areas. These mountains are a challenge not only for mountaineers to climb but also for an army to defend or conquer. So if one wishes to look at them with this different attitude this book is recommended—for the other side of the mountains.

HARISH KAPADIA