ABOUT
Captain Akhilesh Saxena
Captain Akhilesh Saxena is a Kargil War Hero, Defence Expert, and one of the best motivational speakers in India, whose life is a remarkable journey from the battlefield to the boardroom. From leading critical missions during the Kargil War to becoming a Vice President at Tata Communications, his story reflects courage, resilience, and transformational leadership. Today, he inspires organisations and individuals by translating real combat experiences into actionable leadership lessons. His journey is not just about service and it is about transformation into a leader who continues to serve the nation in a new way. Captain Akhilesh Saxena was honoured during the 70th Republic Day celebrations on Rajpath, New Delhi, where his contribution as a Kargil War Veteran and his impact on society were recognised. His image featured on the Veterans’ tableau, symbolising his continued service beyond the battlefield.
A TEDx speaker and a sought-after motivational keynote speaker, he has delivered leadership sessions for top corporates across India. As a respected defence expert, he is frequently invited on leading television platforms such as Times Now, Zee TV, NDTV, Rajya Sabha TV, India TV, and Doordarshan, where his journey and leadership in adversity have been widely showcased. Captain Akhilesh Saxena stands today as a rare combination of a war hero, corporate leader, and inspirational voice—impacting lives and shaping leaders across the nation.
FEATURED IN
Early Life & Education
The journey began with a deep aspiration to serve the nation. Captain Akhilesh Saxena started his education at Sainik School, Gorakhal, after earning a scholarship. His leadership qualities were evident early, as he became House Captain in Class 12. He later joined the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, where he excelled academically and physically, winning the prestigious Glider Trophy in cross-country events for three consecutive years. After completing his training, he moved to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1995, marking his transformation into a proud officer of the Indian Army.
Indian Army Journey
Commissioned into the 223 Medium Regiment as an artillery officer, Captain Akhilesh Saxena lived the core values of the Indian Army discipline, leadership, and service before self. He was known for leading from the front and inspiring confidence among his troops through action rather than words. His commitment and strong leadership skills earned him respect within his unit. Every experience during his service shaped his character and prepared him for greater challenges ahead. This journey of dedication and excellence ultimately led him to face one of the most defining moments of his life the Kargil War.
Kargil War Experience
In 1999, just weeks after his marriage, Captain Akhilesh Saxena was deployed to the Kargil battlefield. Serving as an artillery officer attached to 2 Rajputana Rifles, he led from the front in extremely challenging combat situations. He played a vital role in capturing key strategic peaks such as Tololing, The Hump, and Three Pimples. His courage, tactical expertise, and leadership under intense enemy fire were exceptional. His contribution during Operation Vijay reflects the true spirit of the Indian Army where leaders stand shoulder to shoulder with their men, even in the face of life-threatening danger.
Injury & Comeback
During intense combat, Captain Akhilesh Saxena was critically injured due to enemy shelling. Despite severe injuries, he continued to lead until the mission was accomplished. His recovery journey was long and demanding, involving multiple medical procedures over nearly a year. Although he was declared disabled, he refused to accept defeat and continued to serve at Army Headquarters. His comeback story goes beyond survival it reflects extraordinary courage, mental resilience, and an unbreakable spirit. His determination to rise again despite adversity stands as a powerful example of strength, perseverance, and commitment to duty.
Corporate Leadership
TATA COMMUNICATIONS
After his service in the Army, Captain Akhilesh Saxena transitioned into the corporate world with the same commitment to excellence. He completed his MBA from Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi, earning a gold medal, and further enhanced his leadership skills through an executive program at Michigan University. He began his corporate career with Wipro as a Senior Manager, receiving the Super Boss Award twice. He later served as DGM – Business Excellence at Airtel, managing national operations. Currently, he is Vice President at Tata Communications, recognized multiple times with the prestigious Proclub Award for his leadership excellence.
Mission & Vision
Captain Akhilesh Saxena’s mission is to inspire individuals and organizations by sharing real stories of courage, leadership, and resilience from the battlefield. His vision is to build a nation driven by responsibility, discipline, and a “nation-first” mindset. Through Inspiring Mantras, an initiative led with his wife Shikha Saxena, he continues to impact lives across India. Their belief is simple yet powerful—“Every citizen of the country is a soldier if he intends to be.” This mission honors the sacrifices of India’s soldiers while encouraging every individual to adopt their values in everyday life.
EARLY LIFE & EDUCATION
The journey began with a dream—to serve the nation. Captain Akhilesh Saxena started his schooling at Sainik School, Gorakhal, after securing admission with a scholarship. Even as a young student, his leadership potential was evident when he became a House Captain in Class 12. He went on to join the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune, where he excelled both academically and physically, winning the prestigious Glider Trophy in cross-country events three consecutive times. After rigorous training, he moved to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in 1995—transforming from a small-town boy into an officer of the Indian Army.
INDIAN ARMY JOURNEY
Commissioned into the 223 Medium Regiment as an artillery officer, Captain Akhilesh Saxena embodied the core values of the Indian Army—discipline, leadership, and service before self. Known for leading from the front, he earned the trust of his troops and stood out as a leader who believed in action over words. His military journey prepared him for the ultimate test that would define his legacy—the Kargil War.