Gentleman Spymaster:R.N.Kao
Product ID: 438950251
The riveting story of a spymaster…history doesn't come more riveting than this. The Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), India's foreign intelligence organisation, is one of the most respected institutions in the world of espionage and foreign intelligence today. It has played a vital role in almost all of the landmark events in India's recent history—from the 1971 war to the merger of Sikkim, from discovering Pakistan's nuclear programme to the recent Balakot operation. Yet, as befits its role, very little is known about the organisation. Equally little is known about its founder, Rameshwar Nath Kao or RNK. An intensely private man, RNK was the classical spymaster who operated in the shadows but built enduring institutions. A ruthless professional who believed in putting national interest above his personal preferences, RNK was also the creator of the secretive Aviation Research Centre, India's premier technical intelligence agency. His finest hour was the role played by R&AW in the creation of Bangladesh Review: The Charismatic Spy Chief - A through and well studied book on the charismatic RAW chief RN KAO.Well written accompanied by rare and classic photographs.Higly appreciate the author and the publication. Thank you. Review: Superb - Amazingly detailed account of a great professional. All Indians need to read this to know how R&AW was formed way back.
| Best Sellers Rank | #6,089 in Books ( See Top 100 in Books ) #91 in Anthologies (Books) #178 in Biographies & Autobiographies (Books) |
| Customer Reviews | 4.5 out of 5 stars 1,148 Reviews |
T**T
The Charismatic Spy Chief
A through and well studied book on the charismatic RAW chief RN KAO.Well written accompanied by rare and classic photographs.Higly appreciate the author and the publication. Thank you.
H**N
Superb
Amazingly detailed account of a great professional. All Indians need to read this to know how R&AW was formed way back.
A**R
Good book
Interesting snippets about the gentleman spymaster
V**E
Difficult task accomplished by Nitin Gokhle
Book covers some interesting events of post indian history. You also get an idea of how the espionage world works . Formation of R&AW and attainments it achieved in the short course of time . As said kao was more an institution builder than an operative. Tales of building an equivalent intelligence organization to the then great powers later which played a major role in integrity, foreign affairs, security and welfare of the country are must to be read.
R**A
ITS A SHAME IF YOU DONT KNOW ABOUT KAO SAHAB
Inspiring story of a legend. The tales of the people who work in the shadows for our safety and the reputation of our country. The youth needs this kind of content
V**L
Content
Great book. U will not get bored. Will get to know more about the ops done by RAW . Truly a great book to read.
A**R
Recommended for defence aspirants.
Definitely not a pirated version. Quality of the book is good. Recommended for defence aspirants.
M**N
Insightful
it’s a detailed Biography of legend. Just head up for buyers if you are looking for thriller spy stories this book is not for you
R**R
The legend of RN Kao
I liked the introductory chapters. The readout from Kao’s personal notes were fun. Around the Bangladesh timeframe, the content moved away from Kao’s personal notes to a narrative. That took away the reading experience of this book being in the mind of RN Kao to a description of Kao becoming the playmaker or master of puppets. The style of narration, was great either ways. Definitely made me a proud Indian to understand that R&AW started off with such an esteemed creator. I’m glad to have read this book.
A**R
Excellent book
Talks about the Bangladesh war and Pakistan's genocide of Bengali Hindus and Muslims.
J**A
A fitting tribute to his extraordinary life and career.
Nitin A. Gokhale's "R.N. Kao: Gentleman Spymaster" explores one of India’s most enigmatic and impactful intelligence figures. The book meticulously chronicles the life and career of Rameshwar Nath Kao, the founder of the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), India's premier external intelligence agency. It captures the essence of his understated brilliance and the indelible mark he left on India's security landscape. Gokhale delves into Kao’s early life, shedding light on his modest family background and the values instilled in him during his formative years. This upbringing laid the foundation for his strong moral compass and unwavering commitment to national service, which defined his illustrious career. The book takes you across multiple journeys, from the Kashmir Princess investigation to the Ghana assignment, the 1965 & 1971 wars, and the Sikkim merger. By blending anecdotes, historical context, and analysis, the author brings Kao’s persona to life, making the book informative and inspirational. It is an essential read for anyone interested in intelligence, history, or leadership. Gokhale’s portrayal of Kao is both nuanced and reverential, offering a comprehensive look at a man whose legacy continues to shape India’s security apparatus. Kao emerges as a beacon of integrity, a master strategist, and a true gentleman, making this book a fitting tribute to his extraordinary life and career.
R**N
Detail oriented
Fascinating titbits about a rarely talked about man... A good read.. Tad bit drab but worth it. Recommend it highly
A**E
Outstanding!
Great insights into historical achievements of RAW and of course Mr. Kao! Beautifully written too. Happy to recommend to all proud Indians.
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