Bloomsbury India has recently launched The Lion of Naushera, a book by Ziya Us Salam and Anand Mishra, offering a biographical sketch of Brigadier Mohammad Usman.

The release of this book—even before my own biography reaches readers—speaks to the growing recognition of Brigadier Usman’s historical significance. It is noteworthy that my cinematic work, Nowshera ka Sher, and I find mention in their book, acknowledging my long association and research into the subject.

The Lion of Naushera is divided into six parts. The first chronicles Brigadier Usman’s life from his childhood to the final day of his life. The second presents accounts of his bravery and martyrdom from multiple perspectives—including that of his adversaries. The third centers around his tomb, which has witnessed both reverence and vandalism. The fourth highlights various cinematic efforts to portray his life, including my own tribute through Nowshera ka Sher. The fifth introduces members of his extended family, primarily from his maternal side. The final section reflects on the values Brigadier Usman stood for—his unwavering nationalism and secularism.

Unfortunately, while The Lion of Naushera provides a documented account, it does not delve into the ideological and tactical foundations that truly shaped Usman as a leader and a person. As someone who has long researched Brigadier Usman’s life and portrayed his story through my cinematic work Nowshera ka Sher, I believe there remains much more to be told.

For readers seeking to understand the life of this valiant warrior and grasp his profound vision for India, my forthcoming biography would offer a more comprehensive narrative. Titled Roar of the Lion: The Story of Sher-e-Nowshera, and to be published by Rupa Publications, my book meticulously traces Brigadier Usman’s journey—from his childhood in Banaras and Allahabad, through his training at the prestigious Sandhurst military academy, to his martyrdom in defense of Kashmir. It also explores the evolution of the British Indian Army and the opportunities and challenges it presented to Indian youth, situating Usman’s life within the vibrant backdrop of India’s national movement and struggle for freedom.

During my reading of The Lion of Naushera, I noted certain factual inaccuracies that merit attention. For instance, the book states that Brigadier Usman attended Aligarh Muslim University after his initial schooling in Yusufpur. In truth, he studied at Harishchandra High School in Banaras and later at Allahabad University, where he was part of the University Training Corps. Similarly, while the book mentions he joined the 5/10 Baluch soon after Sandhurst, he was first attached to the Cameronians (Scottish Rifles) for one year, as was standard for King’s Commissioned Indian Officers (KCIOs).

Given that this is the first full-length book on Brigadier Usman, such lapses—though perhaps inadvertent—are deeply regrettable. One expects greater diligence from senior journalists of the stature of Ziya Us Salam and Anand Mishra, especially when documenting the life of a national hero whose legacy deserves nothing less than historical precision.

Despite these discrepancies, The Lion of Naushera deserves a warm welcome for initiating public discourse around Brigadier Usman’s legacy. I extend my congratulations to the authors, Ziya Us Salam and Anand Mishra, who have done commendable work in bringing renewed focus to Kashmir of 1947–48 and its heroic defender.

This book is indeed a heartfelt tribute to “the man whose example still fills our hearts with pride.” It marks an important step in reclaiming the memory of a soldier whose courage and integrity continue to inspire