Proud Moments

Captain Akhilesh Saxena, Kargil War Hero, Motivational Speaker, and Corporate Leader, was recognized during our 70th Republic Day celebrations on Rajpath, Delhi, for his outstanding contribution to the nation both during the Kargil War and now, inspiring and motivating society. His picture was featured on the veterans tableau during Republic Day celebrations. Recognition during National Republic Day parade 2019, 26th January 2019, Rajpath New Delhi.

Nation First is a bestseller and a moving memoir that brings to the limelight a most neglected point of view—the life of army wives during the Kargil War. The author of this book is Shikha Akhilesh Saxena. She is the wife of Kargil War hero Captain Akhilesh Saxena. The book takes the reader through soldiers' and their families' emotional and physical trials. The intense accounts of three operations- Tololing, the Hump, and Three Pimples, exemplifies the unbreakable spirit of Indian soldiers and sacrifices of their families. This is a narration of determination, patriotism, and perseverance. Nation First is a stirring tribute to the courage that protects our nation.

Shikha Akhilesh Saxena has chronicled her personal life experiences during the duration of the Kargil War. This book highlighted the bravery of Indian soldiers and their families. Nation First became a bestselling memoir. It is also widely much-admired by media houses such as India Today and The Times of India “the book rekindles a sense of nationalism in readers”. The book is deeply rooted in the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and the spirit of unity that form the backbone of our Indian Armed Forces. Written with the intent of instilling values of duty and dedication in readers of all ages. The books have received a powerful foreword from General V.P. Malik, Mrs. Ranjana Malik, Shree Nitin Gadkari (Minister), Anupam Kher (Actor), Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa (Retd.), and Anand Neelakantan (Author).

Nation First is published by Hachette India and launched by General V.P. Malik (ex-Army Chief), Mrs. Ranjana Malik (ex-AWWA President), Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa (retd.), Barkha Dutt (journalist and author), Dr. Annurag Batra (chairman of BW Businessworld and founder of exchange4media), and Ravi S. (former chairman of BSE India & managing partner at Ravi Rajan & Co.) at Ashoka Auditorium, Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt., on 4th June, 2023.

Shikha Akhilesh Saxena was honoured and received award for her book Nation First, at a prestigious Army Wife Welfare Association (AWWA) Event Abhivyakti season3 at Pune.

The success of the book created a demand among Hindi readers. Shikha translated the book into Hindi, and Prabhat Prakashan, most reputed hindi publisher, publish the book in Hindi under the title "कारगिल युद्ध: वीरता और देशभक्ति की सत्य गाथा".

The popularity and praise of Nation First gave rise to the Hindi version of the book to reach more readers. The readers of Hindi books requested and waited for the “Kargil Yuddha.” Kargil Yuddha is Published by‎ Prabhat Prakashan Pvt. Ltd. On 18 July 2024.

"Kargil Yuddha" is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers during the Kargil War. Drawing from personal experiences of Shikha Akhilesh Saxena and stories from the warfront from Captain Akhilesh Saxena, it takes the readers through the immense challenges faced by our soldiers and their undying commitment to defending our nation. This book holds a special place as it reflects not just the tactical brilliance of our Army but also the immense emotional strength and patriotism that drove every soldier to fight in those harsh terrains. It will undoubtedly offer valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the meaning of sacrifice, crucial for young officers and soldiers alike.

This book is also deeply rooted in the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and the spirit of unity that form the backbone of our Indian Armed Forces, and written with the intent of instilling values of duty and dedication in readers of all ages. And have received a powerful Foreword from: General V.P. Malik, Mrs. Ranjana Malik, Shree Nitin Gadkari (Minister), Anupam Kher (Actor), Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa (Retd.), and Anand Neelakantan (Author).

Shikha Akhilesh Saxena was honoured and awarded for her book Kargil Yuddha. And the book was launched at Abhivyakti season4 at Chandi Mandir

Captain Akhilesh Saxena, a corporate leader, has received the Pro Club Award three times from Tata Communications. He is not only a war hero who has proved his guts during the Kargil war but also in the boardroom of a multinational corporation. Based on their performance, only the best 1% of corporate leaders get this award and invitation to join the ProClub program. Analytics reports monitor the phenomenal performance of ProClub winners, these corporate leaders are reviewed for continuous years, aiming for excellence and generating new business growth. Proclub acquired a special place in the hearts of TATA Communications for lifetime memories. As an award organisation host these corporate leaders and take them to amazing destinations around the world, featuring the best in hospitality, entertainment, activities, culture, and food, all designed and cleverly created by the organisation. They bring a narrative, intertwining the event theme with in-locale tradition and bringing everyone together throughout signature events to lead visitors on a true journey throughout the week.

Captain Akhilesh Saxena, corporate leader, received the CX Strategy Summit Award in 2018. Today market competition is constantly pushing for improvement, discovering more effective ways to collaborate across functions and levels, through which a company could lead to enhanced customer satisfaction, increased revenue, and better employee fulfilment. The only reality in business is your customer’s insight—the honest truth about the experience that consumers have when dealing with a brand. For ultimate customer satisfaction, the corporate leaders work restlessly. Because cultivating customer loyalty and refining the procedure ensure that they’re worth a lot more to a business in the long run.

Captain Akhilesh Saxena, corporate leader, was awarded Aegis Gram-Bell Award. Innovations have been used by him all through his life to make the mission a success: It could be the employment of Bofors gun during Kargil War or the resources to accomplish any project with success in corporate. Aegis Graham Bell Award is one of India's most renowned awards for innovation. It gives an award for exceptional contributions of the corporate leaders in new technology. It remains a source of inspiration for future corporate leaders to make a commendable contribution towards the technological arena of the nation.

Kargil Vijay Diwas in Drass is unique since it is the town where the Kargil War was fought. This celebration is held annually on 26th July at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass to commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of Kargil War Heroes during the 1999 Kargil War. The celebration is characterized by somber tributes, where the Kargil War Veterans, senior military officers, and martyrs' families attend to pay respects. Since the place has limited resources, special invitations are extended to specially chosen Kargil War Heroes and their families. One can join this celebration only on an invitation. Captain Akhilesh Saxena, Kargil War Hero and his family had the privilege of being invited as guest of honour at these celebrations several times. The function is marked with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial, an act of reverence to the courageous hearts who sacrificed their lives for the country. The Indian Army conducts different programs like patriotic orations, cultural events, and lighting a victory flame, recalling the spirit of heroism. The Kargil War Heroes relate their experiences, motivating the next generations with tales of bravery and tenacity. The occasion is attended by senior military figures, government officials, and civilians who gather to reverence the memories of the Kargil War martyrs. The stunning backdrop of the Tololing and Tiger Hill ranges, where fierce battles were waged, contributes to the solemnity and poignancy of the event.

It was 1999 when the Kargil war erupted, and everybody realizes the significance of Indian Army. A group of young leaders emerged and guided the missions. The reel heroes also emerged to pay tribute to the real heroes of the nation. They create a cultural and musical event "Aye watan tere liye" and invite the Kargil warriors as chief guests. Almost all the actors and actresses from Bollywood were present in the show. The Kargil War Hero, Captain Akhilesh was in the hospital where a car was arranged to take him and his family and other warriors. The entire stadium was packed with people and everyone wanted to pay homage to the Kargil Heros and hear them out. Captain Akhilesh Saxena, Kargil War Hero and motivational speaker delivered his first motivational speech at the end of the program, he was given standing applauds where all eyes were had a tear of pride in their eyes.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated with utmost patriotism at Select City Walk, New Delhi, to pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Indian Armed Forces during the 1999 Kargil War. They always have Captain Akhilesh Saxena, Kargil War Hero accompanied by his wife Shikha Akhilesh Saxena as the guest of honour. The celebration consists of patriotic performances, documentary shows, and exhibitions depicting the bravery of Kargil warriors followed by lunch. Tourists, students, as well as civilians, take part actively in homage, giving an overwhelming sense of nationalism. There are tricolor decorations all around the mall and a tribute wall where people freely write messages dedicated to the army. The tribute is a remembrance of India's soldiers who have an unsinkable heart and urges people to keep patriots and national unity alive within them.

Two Kargil War Heroes reunited after 19 years. During the Kargil War, Captain Akhilesh supported the infantry troops of 2 Rajputana Rifles with artillery fire for the attack on Tololing Peak, while Squadron Leader Dhanoa provided air support for the same mission. They spoke a few times to exchange information but never saw each other in person. After the war, life took a different turn for both warriors. Captain Akhilesh had to leave the Army due to his disability and pursued a career in the corporate world, eventually rising to the position of Vice President in a Tata Group company. Meanwhile, Dhanoa went on to become the Air Chief Marshal. However, when they finally met, he didn’t hesitate for a second to embrace his war buddy, expressing their deep bond to the crowd. It was a beautiful moment of pride and brotherhood to be cherished for a lifetime.

Shikha Akhilesh Saxena was crowned Mrs. India Trendsetter Queen of Substance 2018, awarding her for her inspiring journey as an Army wife and incredible contribution to society. She is the wife of Kargil War veteran Captain Akhilesh Saxena and devoted her life to spreading stories of patriotism, sacrifice and bravery. Her achievements extend beyond the beauty pageant; Shikha Akhilesh is an author, motivational speaker, and social reformer. Through her writings and efforts, she endures to motivate millions of people with stories of courage, commitment, and resilience. Shikha Akhilesh has been greeted as a role model who breaks stereotypes and creates new benchmarks for women across the country. Her triumph symbolized the ultimate in grace and determination. It also affirms that beauty is not just about appearance but also contributing to the society. It further solidify her mission of inspiring national pride and encouraging future generations.

When the Chief of Army Staff, General V.P. Malik, visited the hospital to cheer up Captain Akhilesh Saxena, Kargil War Hero, who got injured during his third mission while fighting the enemy, it was a moment of immense pride. The leader from the top personally came to the hospital to appreciate his junior most and to ensure the captain's welfare. Similarly, Captain Akhilesh Saxena also felt immense pride, knowing he had proved his worth and fulfilled his duties. The moment full of pride was captured on camera to cherish for a lifetime.

Captain Akhilesh Saxena – Led Three Attacks in the Kargil War – These are a few rare moments captured on camera during the thick of the Kargil War. These pictures are priceless, capturing moments of the highest pride and honor. Captain Akhilesh Saxena lived on rocks, under the open sky, during the war. This Kargil War hero climbed with the 2 Rajputana Rifles to re-establish our national flag on the top of Tololing, then with 13 JAK Rifles on Hump, and again with 2 Rajputana Rifles at Three Pimples Area. He fought in the most hostile conditions when the chances of winning the Kargil War were less than 2%. Even after being hit by enemy artillery shelling, he completed the task at hand, directed 120 artillery guns to save and support his infantry war buddies, and kept climbing the mountain in the face of the enemy.

He was awarded the Prakram Padak (Wound Medal) by the Indian military for sustaining severe injuries as a result of direct enemy action in the Kargil War.

Shikha Akhilesh Saxena was awarded the title of Guest of Honour at Saksham Bharti, a distinguished honor in appreciation of her commitment to the well-being of poor children. She has made active contributions to the organization over the years by visiting and giving motivational speeches on education, self-sufficiency, and patriotism. As a writer and orator, she has motivated young minds with tales of bravery, determination, and the sacrifices of Indian soldiers. Her sessions highlight the value of hard work, values, and national pride and give confidence to children to have big dreams and accomplish their goals. Through her affiliation with Saksham Bharti, she continues to propagate equal opportunities and empowerment for the underprivileged section of society. Her visit to the event as the Guest of Honour was a reflection of her tireless efforts in molding young minds and leaving a positive influence on society. This acknowledgement reaffirmed her purpose to encourage and empower the next generation.

The Black-Tie Charity Ball for India's Unsung Heroes, established in 2011, is a prestigious event dedicated to honoring the bravery and sacrifice of the nation's men and women in uniform. It serves as a meaningful platform where art and exclusive experiences are auctioned, with the proceeds directed towards the Unsung Heroes Programme, which supports and uplifts those who have served the nation selflessly. Recognizing their inspiring contributions, Captain Akhilesh Saxena and Shikha Akhilesh Saxena were invited as Guests of Honour at the event. Their presence symbolized the spirit of courage, patriotism, and resilience that the event seeks to celebrate. Through this initiative, the organizers aim to raise awareness and provide tangible support to the heroes who often go unrecognized for their immense sacrifices. The evening was a blend of tribute, gratitude, and philanthropy, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to its defenders. This grand event continues to bring together patriots, artists, and philanthropists, united by a common goal—to honour and uplift India's unsung heroes.

This was a grand stage show, organised and conducted by actors and actress of Bollywood in honour of our brave soldiers who fought for our country during the Kargil War. Captain Akhilesh with his wife Shikha Saxena and few other friends was the chief guest of this show. Anupam Kher acted as an anchor, and Rani Mukherjee and Abhishek Bachchan made their first appearance in public on stage. This show was full of patriotism, dances and songs that were conducted by different star casts like Amitabh Bachchan, Govinda, Shilpa Sethi, Salman Khan, Aishwarya, A.R Rahama and Udit Narayan. Most of the film stars were present in the show. They all interacted with the captain and honoured him for his bravery and achievements during the Kargil War.
At the end of the show, Captain Saxena with his friends was called on the stage. Captain Saxena touched the heart of the public, with his speech that everyone became emotional and started crying.

The 50 Day War was an open-air theatre stage show, with an expenditure of about Rs 70 lakh. It has a cast of 140 actors (including army personnel), sets that move on rails, a life-sized helicopter exploding, two MiGs whizzing off on cables, action on the illumined hillocks – both natural and set up. Most amazingly a revolving platform that takes an audience of 360-plus from one scene to another.

Moreover, to think it all started with a visit to the hospital. When Aamir and Virat – began visiting the army’s base hospital in Delhi in the midst of the Kargil War, where they met injured Capt. Akhilesh Saxena.

Captain Akhilesh supported them and helped them by narrating the real incidents of the war. They again visited the hospital a couple of days after Tiger Hill captured, another round of collecting stories and real details from the real war hero. “The kind of stories we got were phenomenal,” says Aamir. “When I saw the footage, I said ‘My god, we’ve just got to do a play as well’.” The 50 Day War? It’s recent history. It’s also a stringing together of real conversations, real situations and actual incidents, all recounted to Virat by the soldiers.
Aamir & Virat both invited Capt. Akhilesh and Shikha Saxena as a chief guest on their 50-day war set and honoured them for the bravery and achievements in Kargil war.