"In Quest of the Last Victory" by Navin Gulia
- attisr21
- May 8, 2024
- 4 min read
When you have a non-fiction character to fall in love with, why imagine falling in love elsewhere? After reading "In Quest of the Last Victory" by Navin Gulia, I completely, madly fell in love with the person portrayed in the book. It was impossible to set the book aside once I had started it; it gripped me, and after a three-hour continuous stretch, I finished reading it.
I couldn't sleep that night. I was determined to change my life in accordance with the ideals or philosophy of Navin Gulia. Perhaps it's because we can even meet him in person, which adds more liveliness to life. I discussed the whole book with my book club members, describing the effect "In Quest of the Last Victory" had on my mind.
Navin, as a child, was very determined and headstrong. Whenever he faced criticism, whether for not being able to run properly or for not having good handwriting, he was adamant about learning and doing it correctly. He always struggled with handwriting, as no one told him how to improve in that area. Whenever he received punishment for not writing clearly, the teacher asked him to rewrite it, and he produced the same pattern of writing, which I think everyone can relate to from their childhood memories.
I vividly remember being in St Mary's Convent School, sitting in my class, combing my hair after celebrating a feast day. Though it is a funny one! My teacher saw me combing my hair in class and gave me the punishment to write "I have combed my hair" 100 times.
Oh God! It's so funny now.
Similarly, Navin also has some funny and some serious memories from his childhood. One act of his that I really appreciate, and everyone in the group found memorable, was when he had a running competition but didn't have his sports shoes. He ran home to get them, but the house was locked. Unsure when his mother would return, and seeing an excellent opportunity to showcase his talent, he didn't waste much time. He took a stone, broke the window glass, entered, took his shoes, and ran to school. This was truly exemplary for a child.
We, as Words to Wisdom Book Club members, really enjoyed discussing his childhood as well as our own. Do you remember any really funny or memorable memories from your childhood? Please write to us. We would appreciate any comments about this.
I was not mere spectator but active participant in a profound journey of hope, courage, and triumph. When Words to Wisdom Book and Lifestyle Club decided to read the book "In Quest of the Last Victory" by Navin Gulia I was encouraged to reflect on my own life and discover what truly matters to me.
And it is not about me, it is about every reader of the club who find solace, inspiration, and a profound reminder of the extraordinary strength that resides within each of us, which we generally forgets.
He was determined as child and his stubbornness helped him in taking the position that he maintains now. After 12th he was selected in NDA and chose the hard training to become Para Commando. But life has planned something else for him.
Against all the odds, Navin navigates through life challenges with unflinching determination and courage. During his training time in NDA he met with an accident which left him paralysed for life. Spending 2 years in hospital and leaving the hospital with a hope to even move the wheelchair by his own was challenging for Navin Gulia to fight the battle of life.
But through his unrelenting courage and determination he set a world record for driving continuously for 55 hours to reach Marsimik La.
Fearlessly challenging the physical limitations he won numerous awards like
President's Award from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam 2007.
Times of India 'Global Indian' 2005.
Limca Book 'People of the Year' 2005.
Chief of Army Staff Commendation 2005.
Karamveer Puruskaar- KBC, Sh Amitabh Bachchan.
And many more awards. He started his trust ADAA for underprivileged children. His dedication and profound commitment to uplifting these children illuminates the path towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Through unwavering determination, Navin Gulia made a tangible difference in the lives of those most in need. It was not after the accident that he has courage to break down the barriers instead since childhood he displayed his courage often times. Gulia's innate desire to do something or to become something was evident from the beginning. And this early commitment laid the foundation for his future endeavours beyond the physical limitations.
Through his inspiring anecdotes, we the readers of the club went to his house to meet him personally. In person also he serves a beacon of hope, inspired us to embrace the true potential. Listening to him is in itself an opportunity for growth and triumph. His work demonstrates unparalleled endurance and determination in overcoming tough challenges.
It was a book of tears, laugh and relentless power. Words to Wisdom Book and Lifestyle Club really enjoyed reading it. And yes, don't forget to share your childhood memory.
Enjoy🙂
You come across several people in life, some are highly accomplished, some already on the journey and some are still struggling to find their mission, but rarely you come across people while doing their act. Such journeys are not snapshots of good deeds but a kaleidoscope of uneven landscapes which mesmerizes with the sheer grit and conviction they display in the purpose. Meeting the super hero in person while reading his book was a very touching experience, especially for me who could connect to the places and experiences described in the book. Well done sir....Any thank you Words of Wisdom.