When a sailor retires from a lifetime at sea, he is said to ‘swallow the anchor’. This phrase is also commonly used to refer to those to those retiring from the Navy. So, after almost forty years of a great life in whites, I am preparing to swallow mine. It has been my experience that while many veterans swallow the anchor without even a hint of a burp; for some others, it gets inextricably stuck in their throats and manifests in several undesirable symptoms.
Reflecting upon my experiences of this ‘Stuck Anchor Syndrome’ and my impending transition from a long tryst with the Armed Forces to a life of enjoyable anonymity in just a few days, I felt a need to talk to myself. About the ‘dharma’ of a veteran, about the expectations from a veteran and about the philosophy of being a veteran. My own version of a prep school that will ready me to shed the uniform with dignity and responsibility.
Our nation respects its armed forces for their service and sacrifices and by extension, respects its veterans in equal measure. I think this respect and dignity must always be upheld by mature and responsible behaviour. Regrettably, this has not always been so. Perhaps, out of misplaced apprehensions, poor advice and miscalculation, veterans have taken to the streets, made brownie shows of returning medals and the like – all of which run contrary to the public perception of a military veteran and have damaged their reputation. Fortunately, such instances are rare.
So, as I talk to myself, several thoughts come to mind. Firstly, I must learn to let go. It may seem difficult after four decades of military life but let go I must. There is so much more out there to do and experience beyond trying to cling to the apron strings of the past. Is it because I am incapable of anything else? Or am I a frog that yearns to dive back into its well for comfort? Surely not. So I will be non-interfering and support the new generation in running the show, as we did while in the Service. If they seek my advice, I will give it readily and cheer them on from the sidewalk.
Secondly, I must understand that Change today is much more rapid than in yesteryears. Today’s India that is breaking shackles of the past and reducing external dependence. Obviously, some people do not like this India-centric approach. It is also an age of cultural revivalism, rejection of colonial mindsets and embracing of Indian tradition. The armed forces will and must Indianise. I will not lament the demise of ‘loyal toasts’ at five-course dinners, gripe over the disappearance of the St George’s Cross from the Indian Naval Ensign or work up a sweat at the replacement of old English hymns with Indian tunes at Beating Retreat ceremonies.
Thirdly, I must resist the temptation to be a ‘defence expert’. This requires much more investment than a routine life spent in the armed forces. It requires being current, studying subjects thoroughly, having clarity of thought, understanding the overarching national security imperatives and of course, being articulate and convincing. You can count such people on one hand. Many ‘defence experts’ who appear on TV would find themselves out of their depth in a rain-water puddle. There are yet others who think screaming, shouting and frothing in the mouth with indignation is good form. Shallowness of knowledge and histrionics are seen through with ease, even by a mildly discerning audience. Leave frothing in the mouth to race horses.
Fourthly, I must throw out the phrase ‘in our days’ from my lexicon. My days are up. Today’s leadership bears full responsibility for what happens during their watch. And I may not understand the current environment as well as them; and neither am I privy to decision-making inputs that prompt a certain course of action. I must have faith in tomorrow’s leadership just as total faith was reposed in our generation when we steered affairs in uniform. And I will try to avoid alluding to a suggestion that ‘morals are in steep decline’. I have heard this nonsense for forty years. Plunders, loots, land grab and abductions have taken place all through history – only the characters and modus operandi have changed with time. The vast majority is honest and upright – the armed forces cannot be any other way if we have to lead troops into battle. The Services will endure, despite an occasional aberration here and there.
Finally, I must make myself useful in some way. Even in retirement, I realise that I will continue to remain exceptionally endowed with skills, talent, experience, maturity and a respectable pension to be of help to society. Besides, I will most definitely revel in the joys that evaded me while in Service. I hope to travel, play, socialise, nurture suppressed talents, attend marriages, births and funerals, cook a meal, read, write, garden – whatever brings me joy.
I met an erstwhile senior colleague and veteran over lunch a few months ago who told me he was doing really fun stuff and attending a full-time MBA programme. Seeing my perplexed expression, he quickly explained that MBA stood for Marriages, Birthdays and Anniversaries. Further he also said, he was part time into BJP – Barthan, Jhadu and Pochha; and quite enjoying the experience.
Why do I get this feeling that I am looking at great times ahead?
Good one Admiral. Just maybe you could have given some credit to my original “Ten Commandments for Veterans” which I had written years ago?
Thank you Colonel. While I was quite unaware of your piece till someone sent it to me after my blog, I do acknowledge that there is much similarity in thought. Warm regards.
Great men think alike.
A beacon article…..
a “Transit” for recent veterans like me to determine our “Gyro Error” and nullify it…
Beautifully articulated sir..
Nihil Ultra.
Lovely piece, Sir. Write that book which was always there in you.
If you are ever in Powai or near abouts, please do drop in.
VMT, Sir for sharing your thoughts for a smooth transition to a world uncharted, for many of us.
You cross the gangway today to be in a new avtar albeit with out the kavach – white and gold. Look forward to an RV soon enough.
Till we meet again.
Thank you and Regards
Absolutely brilliant Sir. We can give a lot to our society, to our alma mater and most importantly to our families. Let’s not call it a retirement. This is just stepping into a new phase of life. Cheers.
Dear Admiral,
Very well thought of and perfectly scripted thoughts.
You have clearly laid your path of happiness and success.
A small tip from personal experience – try to be creative and productive. This surely keeps a fauji content. Doing something new could be the key to achieve this.
All the best!!!
Dear Admiral
Brilliant articulation of how a senior officer must transition to civil life. But you should make an exception in your own case. With your professionalism, integrity and leadership style aided by a fantastic narration skills you must indulge the future generation and the society at large with your frank and forthright views especially on leadership and ethics (you walk the talk on these aspects) , even as you are busy pursuing your MBA programme.
Dear Admiral, Always knew you could mesmerise any audience with your articulation. But it was a novel experience for me to see that the magic works equally well even when you speak to yourself. Though you reserve full copyrights to your thoughts, but I could find an uncanny resonance from a similar episode a few years back when I tried to jog my memory, which has already started fading. I dare say hadn’t come across any one, including myself, who could muster such courage of conviction to announce such thoughts to the entire environment so succinctly and so loud and clear the way you did with the help of your magnificent megaphone. I trust this day day shall go down as an watershed in your life when you shall ‘swallow the anchor’ by your own admission after an inning so very well played. Years of toiling, striving and finally achieving heaps of winnings along the rather long timelines must have been immensely fulfilling and made many dreams come true, which you have been nurturing since early days. Imaginations of Rudyard Kipling in ‘IF’ stands truly vindicated with your life example. That’s exactly why admiration for this Admiral is so genuine and I am proud to announce it to the world without any inhibition. I can assure you the second inning as a Veteran is going to be equally interesting and fulfilling as you have already charted your course with the thoughts evident in your loud thinking. Selfishly desire that we shall continue to be beneficiary of many more of such thoughts even after your superannuation as you have already spoilt us that way. Also hope to make it into your four ball for a round of golf more frequently, whenever you visit Kolkata next. Best Wishes Sanyal
Another gem from you sir…
Personifies you in every way and gives an insight to the perfect leader and gentleman you are !
Best wishes to you and Rupa ma’am.
For us Land Lubbers, we cannot be weighed down by heavy anchors but bound we remain by our distinctive Lanyards. As I will proudly mine for one last time tomorrow, I recommend a new phrase on the eve of my retirement.
Unravelling The Lanyard
The Lanyard symbolises a strong affliation with our Arm/ Service, Regt or Battalion. Traditionally it was to keep the whistle/ Weapon secured and available always – To remain Alert and ready for a Clarion call to Arms (often Alarms).
The Colours, Interwining
and Cording as well as its innate Strength reflects the Diversity bound by a over reaching common Identity, Woven together to Serve the Nation.
The colours symbolise the Valour and the distinct Identity and Indomitable Spirit
On retiring, this ubiquitous accoutrement becomes a symbolism of a Fauji’s achievement. Never to be worn again, yet not hung on a Wall.
A testament of Fortitude and Service Rendered
to be Remembered and
Revered till
Duty Calls
or
God Recalls
JAI HIND!
🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳🇮🇳
Nice..Anurag has also added to this lovely piece.Thank you for your service and God bless us all..
Dear Sir,
There were very few Admirals in this millenium who were as widely respected as you, for your leadership, professionalism, and a lot more. This article is another gem, another beacon for serving and retired. May the Indian Navy continue to get leaders like you, to keep it homed on to its target as always, and forever!
Dua always for you and family for a contentful second innings. Pls continue to inspire our generation.
Kind Regards,
A proud veteran
Sir yet another masterpiece. You have been our role model as a Senior Officer and these great thoughts on transition will surely inspire both serving amd veterans alike. Looking fwd to hearing more tips on the Megaphone. All The Best
Sir,
We have not met much nor have I had the privilege of having worked with you. Nevertheless, you are one of the few that I hold in high esteem and as a guiding light. You have finished your watch and handed over a fine ship, and we have taken over the next watch and till we hear our 8 bells toll, we shall do you proud and carry the baton. At the end of it, we all need to hand over our watches and the current generation is privileged to take over from you.
Sir,
Very well articulated message which is true to every word. Best wishes for re-attired life.
Great thinking Biswajit. Life ahead will be a great experience. All the best in years ahead.
How fast and much a Vetean accepts the Civil life while keeping his Military teachings intact makes them accepted in the civil society as well respected too. Just keep your OLQ intact.
Another great perspective put forward for the vetrans and I too may become an member of BJP and enjoy new degree of MBA.
Brilliantly expressed Sir and am sure you will follow it valiantly as well. Repeating what Vadhera Sir said, now is the time to do what we had been submerging, by telling our near dear that “there’s time enough for it once I retire.” But indeed do something and not idle your mind to make it a devil’s playground or allow it to fall prey to temptations or sermons, so beautifully articulated by you. Best Wishes to You and tonnes of happiness to your near and dear, the new family upon your blessed superannuation.
Dear sir…
It’s a journey which makes those associated proud of being there alongside.
You have been a role model and will remain so with the conviction you have and the stands you take…
Wishing you best always and it has been a privilege for me personally to be one of your trusted soldier ever since we met onboard.
You are inspiration personified 🙌
Sir,
It was indeed an honour to have served under you. Clarity of thought and articulation, personal integrity, leadership by example, value of one’s (and others!) time, prolific reading habit and more importantly quick decision making are traits many of us admired and tried to emulate. You have indeed been a role model
to a generation of officers. All the best for the second innings. Looking forward to meeting you sometime in the future.
Warm regards,
Once again brilliant Sir. Congratulations for a fantastic and amazing first innings. Am sure that the second one will be even more brilliant, in a new “Attire” post re-attirement. Wish you all the very best Sir.
Very well expressed , must treat this loss of identity crises as PTSD & groom personnel before superannuation in a formal manner.
Thanks to all shipmates, seniors, colleagues, friends and other well-wishers. Your sentiments and encouragement have been overwhelming. I have received affection and goodwill from all of you well beyond my wildest imagination. May you all be blessed with good health and contentment.
Sir, your “passage plan” for the forthcoming sortie couldn’t have been better. Have been on the “superannuated” side since Sep 22, must admit, each day has been different.
Sir, would love to reconnect once u settle down in your new abode. Looking forward to be part of some singing sessions- starting may be with “Fiddler on the Roof” song “if I were a rich man….”.
Presently at 4W104 Gurjinder Vihar Greater Noida.
Best Wishes n Regards.
Audi
Very well put across admiral ur *MAN KI BAAT* . Being part of NFMC Office bearers for the past 15 years ( 11 yrs as Hon Secy & now as President NFMC), I can only advise that post retirement u do what u could not do whilst in Service. Also now is the time to give back to the Society / Our Fraternity in whichever way u can. Being former CPS, u already would know what is the requirements of a Veterans & Veer Naaris. Always keep the mind ticking.
Wishing u all the Best in ur 2nd innings and welcome to our Fraternity.
Warm Regards
Cdr Vijay Vadhera (02235-F)
President NFMC
29 July 23
Sir,
You have been an absolute beacon of professionalism, no-nonsense to the point approach to work, kind-heartedness and most importantly, personal integrity.
How you have gone about such varied and sometimes extremely odd demands of work with such objectivity is a lesson in leadership. Has been an absolute privilege to serve two tenures under your leadership .
Look forward to hosting you in Delhi and reading more of your exploits in the second innings.
We wish You Both Many many good and fun times in your second innings. You have been a Role Model for all the men in white serving under your leadership at some time or the other.
This is an eloquent write and yes letting go in all aspects stated here for the transition are absolutely essential for the MBA and the BJP.😊. Thanks for sharing these thoughts . We look forward to more at the dasumegaphone . Maybe some of those recipes can be shared with us.
Heartiest congratulations and Best wishes.
A brilliant article sir. Liked the part on Anonymity. Look forward to seeing more such articles of value. All the best to you and Ma’am for an even better second innings.
Excellent articulation Dasu of what a typical Veterans must do…. couldn’t agree more with your thoughts. Swallowing the anchor is natural progression of rank and age but accepting it is something which doesn’t come easy to many.. happy to see and not surprised too , being your coursemate and so seen you closely, that you have well prepared for this day.. just the way you prepared for all eventualities in service. You have much to offer the country and society and I am sure that you will have many such opportunities coming your way. I am also sure that you will make your choice after due deliberations.. Welcome to the veterans fold and wish you a better experience of the second innings. I am sure Rupa is looking forward to it too. Put your unknown talents to better use.. this will Also give you opportunity to make up for catch up on social interactions.. make the best of time at hand. Best wishes friend and look forward to meeting sometime. May Lord Varuna bless you with fair winds and following seas always and every time.👏👏🙏🙏🙏
Well said, Dasu
Great read sir. Lots of lessons to be learnt from this piece. Thanks
Dear Sir
Heartiest Congratulations on successful completion of a glorious career. Navy would be indebted for you having served in white uniform. We were fortunate to have a senior, guide and colleague like you. I can vouch for it because I have been fortunate to share work place, wisdom and hilarious jokes with you.
There were number of places I followed you from 1241 RE to Mirpur to that corner room on second floor of South Block. Everywhere there was one common thread, people remebered you very fondly. A reputation like that was alwaye enviable.
You won’t have to make yourself useful, with your immense knowledge, talent and high EQ, the environment will always be seeking you for its needs.
A memorable, satisfying and fun filled post work life ought to follow a great career.
Sir, wish you, Ma’am and family prosperous, healthy and happiness filled years ahead.
See you in the bar.
Highest Regards
Dear Admiral
Before clicking on the link itself, I was so very excited to read your post and know what you wanted to talk to yourself a few days prior to your retirement from the Navy. After reading your post I feel so happy. Like an ideal naval officer, we will soon have an ideal veteran amongst us. You have articulated your views so very well. I am sure you will really enjoy your second innings and continue to make a difference in people’s lives as well. I would certainly like to see you as a Defence Expert. You will make all of us proud. Best wishes for a healthy and happy life. Warm regards
Sir, An extremely well articulated piece, a must read for to serving/ to be veterans/ veterans. I had the privilege of serving under you and gaining first hand knowledge on how to be a true leader. Wishing you a great time ahead. Your friendship means a lot to me.
Best wishes in anticipation of your transition sir. This is Cdr. Anil Sreedharan (Retd.), 66th Course! I have never before read such an eloquent post expressing thoughts with such clarity! You have nailed every aspect of the transition from letting go to what to look forward too with alacrity. May you swallow the anchor with ease without so much of a burp and settle down to a enriching and fulfilling life on this side of the fence. Your well wisher.
Delightful
Sir,
This is a wonderful reckoner for officers transitioning from uniformed service. A few recommendations hold good even when we change portfolio with promotions and transfers. The need to evolve and transition to a different avatar with change in roles and responsibilities is essential and desirable. You sir, have led by example in this realm.
Fully endorse your views sir. Very well articulated
Fantastic Sir. Eagerly looking forward to read books written by you, in near future.
Good stuff, Admiral!
Congratulations on an absolutely brilliant career. Welcome to the other side….and, yes, you will have a great time!
Very nicely articulated sir! Though I feel veterans can continue to actively serve the Service in several avenues… unfortunately we do not yet have such a mechanism for hiring veterans.
Wishing you a great second innings!!
Absolutely correct! Life begins again after retirement ! We have had our day. We took over a Navy made powerful by a long list of thorough professionals. We have passed the baton to equally competent professionals who know what is the best for our Navy in current times. The Navy was, is and continues to be “Steady and on Course” for a bright future!
Respected Sir
1. You have been inspirational to a lot of young officers and now young veterans.
2. This post of yours resonated with my feelings so much, that I just wanted to say ,thank you. I hung my boots and joined the “Forever Navy” on 13 Jul 23.
3. Learning everything in the whites, Had joined NDA after Class 12. Whatever wealth of knowledge I accumulated and absorbed to be a confident professional today is due to the Navy. The support for an out of the box person like me was only possible with super understanding seniors. May Varuna remain kind to our brothers.
4. To above and beyond. God Speed, I wish you only the best.
Regards
Cdr Rahul Verma (Retd)
Very well articulated. Anonymity let’s us enjoy our life to the full. I have been a live practitioner of this life form since my superannuation, and busy enjoying my hobbies.
N number of times I have said in various veteran’s forums that we had our time and this gen has theirs. Let them run the show. Some people just don’t understand though.
Admiral, with such clear thought, you have outlined the life that you are going to have post Swallowing (fully😉) the Anchor, you are in for a wonderful and enjoyable inning and your wife is going to get a full time “Ramu” to run around😀😀.
All the best for your equally glorious second innings.
Do wish you the very best as you transition to the next chapter. I have no doubt you have a lot to do ; lot to give ; lot to savour; lot to relish and enjoy. I somehow , have a feeling , you are going to have your hands full. Cheers to the end of one glorious phase …
Some splendid introspection and great parting advice sir. With no intention to apple polish, I must let you know that you are way up there among the handful of genuine leaders that I have served under. Four decades in white uniform with such exemplary service is no mean achievement sir. It stands to your credit that you have remained grounded and unassuming. These are qualities that surely would have endeared you to a lot of your subordinates. As far as one understands that at the end of a great game of chess, the king, the queen, the bishop and the pawn go into the box, the transition should hopefully not be a difficult one. Every point made by you aligns with that philosophy. Wishing ma’am and you all the best for your journey ahead. May your path be paved with happiness, satisfaction and success. Regards and Au revoir sir.
Sir wonderfully penned down pre-retirement vows or ‘must do’ list. You have been a beacon of leadership and professionalism during your entire career and I am sure that in retirement you will be equally a role model for other veterans, specially when it comes to giving ‘sound bites’ for media. Follow your heart and you will definitely be a proud veteran with an illustrious 4 decade career behind you. Will be looking forward for more frequent additions to dasumegaphone.
Sir. As usual, nicely put. I agree with everything you wrote as I also cross the fence next month. Do share your address and contact details. I am settling in Greater Noida Gurjinder Vihar. Regards.
Thanks Dinesh. Will share contact.
Very well articulated sir. Wrt Defence Experts, I agree there are a lot of them frothing through the mouth and I personally feel you can make a difference in these panel discussions and bring back the honour of the Armed Forces. Wishing you all the very best for your impending Re ‘attired’ life.
Beautifully articulated, Admiral, as you always have. Wish you had a longer innings. Personnel in and out of uniform will miss you terribly, missing from seats of happenings. I am sure the Navy will continue to tap your rich experience, strategic thinking and capabilities God bless you and your family!
Sir,
We are going to miss you terribly.
Wish you and Ma’am all the best for a very happy and contented second innings.
Highest Regards
The best article from any defence officer about the transition ever written.
Welcome to the world outside the uniform sir.
With your open mind and practical nature you will enjoy doing things you could not whilst in uniform.
Wish you a great time.
Sir,
Your mentorship to the younger leadership of the Navy is most valued and will continue to bear fruits much after you hang your boots…
Aye
Thats how it should be looked at by erudite, high performing, well meaning and firmly grounded veterans like you. One of my personal joys would be to be able to see more of you.
A very good reference not only for veterans but also for present leaders. Heartiest congratulations, Sir on a wonderful and inspiring career in the whites. Wishing you a an even better second innings.
Ha ha Good one – Bang on – you got the bulls eye . 🥂🤣🤣