Indian Army Chief General reflects on his multi-religious upbringing and military journey
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Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently spoke about his multi-religious beliefs and extensive military career.
In an interview with ANI, he attributed his deep respect for multiple faiths to his time with the 18th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, where religious harmony was a core part of daily life.
General Dwivedi described how his battalion maintained a mosque, a gurdwara, a Durga Mata temple, and a Mahakal temple - all within the same premises. This unique environment fostered unity among soldiers of different religious backgrounds. "I am multi-religious. In my regiment, we had a Masjid, Gurdwara, Durga Mata temple, and Mahakal temple under one roof," he stated, emphasising how this exposure shaped his inclusive outlook on faith.
Recounting an example of this harmony, he mentioned that his Subedar Major, a Maulvi, would perform Durga Mata Puja without hesitation, reflecting the regiment’s strong spirit of mutual respect.
Before visiting major religious sites like the Golden Temple, Mahakaleshwar Temple, or Vaishno Devi, he first sought blessings at his unit’s Bhakti Dham, where he received prayers from a Maulvi, a Pandit, and a Granthi.
General Dwivedi also reflected on his early years, where stories of freedom fighters and World War II heroes - told by his father - ignited his passion for the military.
He recalled how his uncle used to bring notebooks featuring pictures of soldiers, which further fueled his admiration for the armed forces. Initially, he considered a career in medicine or engineering, inspired by his brothers. However, his growing fascination with the military eventually led him to the Indian Army.
His first ambition was to become an intelligence officer, but after gaining exposure in military school, he decided to first join the Army and later explore intelligence roles.
General Dwivedi also spoke about his long-standing camaraderie with Air Marshal AP Singh, whom he recently flew with in the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) during Aero India 2025.
He recalled their days at the National Defence Academy (NDA), where Singh stood out as a natural leader, admired by his peers. "AP has always been someone who could bring people together, take ownership, and lead effortlessly. His straightforward nature makes him an exceptional leader," said General Dwivedi, adding in jest that Singh’s qualities would have made him a great infantry officer.
As the 30th Chief of the Army Staff, General Dwivedi brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as the Northern Army Commander and Director General of Infantry.