KATHMANDU: The English edition of former Chief of Army Staff Rookmangud Katawal’s autobiography has been released here in Kathmandu on Saturday. Katawal handed over copies of the book to Mikel Dunham, researcher and writer on Himalayan issues and journalist Kunda Dixit to formally launch the book after an hour long conversation with them. The book covers the story of truly historic proportions told from the unique perspective of Katawal, who served as the Chief of Army Staff during the tumultuous years of Nepal’s transition from monarchy following the decade-long Maoist insurgency, according a statement issued by the Publication Nepa~laya that published the book. With his characteristic insight, perception and candor, General Katawal has transcribed the inside stories of the Army’s stance over the Maoist issues and his friction with Maoist Chairman and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal as well as many other events of historical significance, according to the statement. Dahal, who had become the Prime Minister after the Constituent Assembly elections, was forced to step down from the government after an attempt to sack Katawal as the Army Chief. Dunham, who has written Foreword of the book, hailed the autobiography as a political thriller. “One can’t put the book down till the last page,” he said during the conversation. “General Katawal’s autobiography will remain as a reference book forever,” he said, adding, 'Anyone who wants to study Nepal’s history will have to read it sooner or later.' Referring to Katawal’s instructions to the Army to rescue him in case he did not show up at a particular window at Baluwatar every 10 minutes during the high-voltage face-off between him and the Maoist Prime Minister, Dixit asked what would have happened if he would be visible from outside in 12 minutes instead of 10 minutes. “They would certainly storm into free me,” a witty Katawal replied. “What if you had given in to the greed and Prachanda would have succeeded?” Dixit asked again. “If I had given in then, we probably would not get to gather here for the book launch today,” Katawal quipped, “And, Nepal would have become another North Korea.” Besides the issues of political and strategic significance, Katawal has covered stories of his childhood, magical journey to Kathmandu and the beginning of his army career in the book. In Nepal’s modern history, Katawal is considered the first commoner to have reached the high post of Army Chief. The book was originally written in collaboration with journalist Kiran Bhandari. It was published in 2014. Bhrikuti Rai translated it into English. “The original edition of this book has remained the fastest selling book in our catalogue. The book invited many opinions from people from various walks of life. But I am glad to share, none of the living characters in the book have contested the content of the book” said Publication Nepa~laya’s Kiran Krishna Shrestha. “We are glad to have published this book in Nepali and now in English.” he added. The book is priced at Rs 725 and is available at major book stores.