Beginning with West Pakistan refusing to honour the general election results that gave power to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and then embarking on a genocidal mission in East Pakistan, the 1971 War is now acknowledged as one of the last 'just wars' of the 20th century. Heroes of 1971: The Bravehearts of the War that Gave Birth to Bangladesh tells the stories of the soldiers who redrew the map of South Asia in what is still considered to be the most conclusive military victory after World War II. It is an anthology of short essays on the great warriors who fought a heroic battle to help East Pakistan, the dramatis personae being the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra awardees. These are written by veterans - retired and serving officers of the three services, including a former Navy chief. With a series of big-picture analyses helping set the stage, the book is a tribute to the 4 Param Vir Chakra and 76 Maha Vir Chakra awardees of the 1971 War, and an ode to their comrades.
