The allure of the silver screen has encouraged many actors to explore various characters, but for Akshay Oberoi, the role in the upcoming aerial action thriller ‘Fighter’ held a special significance beyond the script. Set for release on January 25, the film directed by Siddharth Anand has been a much-anticipated project with a stellar cast including Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor. Yet, for Oberoi, the decision to portray an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot was deeply personal, strongly motivated by his son Avyaan.
For Oberoi, the role is more than just another addition to his filmography—it’s an ode to his son. “My decision to take up the role of an Indian Air Force pilot was deeply influenced by my desire to create something my son, Avyaan, could be proud of,” he confided. The pride a father feels when he knows his child will witness him embodying a hero, soaring through the sky in uniform, is immeasurable. The opportunity to fulfill a childhood aspiration of flying, albeit on the reel, was an additional compelling factor for his commitment to the film.
The movie ‘Fighter’ centers around a cadre of IAF pilots tasked with forming an elite quick response team. Anand, known for his high-octane action sequences, promises to deliver a movie that not only captures the adrenaline of aerial combat but also the nuanced human story behind the nation’s defenders. Oberoi, thrilled at the prospect of being part of this ambitious project, said, “It is my way of sharing a dream with my son. Siddharth Anand has crafted a remarkable film, and being part of such an exciting project alongside Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone is an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.”
Stepping into the shoes of a character named Basheer, Oberoi has dived into the dynamic and disciplined world of the IAF. The role required intense preparation and research, as authenticity and respect for the defense services were paramount. Understanding the technicalities of an aircraft, the physical fitness, and the mental resilience of pilots were integral to his performance, which he approached with zeal.
The casting of ‘Fighter’ sparked considerable excitement within the industry, with many actors vying for a chance to be a part of what is claimed to be India’s first aerial action film. The film, announced amidst much fanfare, promises to showcase not only heart-pounding action but also the emotional layers that underline the lives of fighter pilots. With a script that offers high stakes and high emotions, the anticipation for its release has been building steadily.
According to trade analysts, ‘Fighter’ has the potential to set new benchmarks for the Indian film industry. The combination of the cast’s star power and the director’s vision has set expectations soaring. The film’s success could pave the way for Indian cinema to explore new genres and storytelling dimensions.
In an age where cinematic experiences are constantly competing with diverse forms of entertainment, ‘Fighter’ aims to bring audiences back to the theatres with its promise of a visually spectacular and heartening story. For Akshay Oberoi, the stakes are personal too. As Avyaan watches his father on the big screen, representing pride, bravery, and the spirit of the IAF, it’s likely to be a moment etched in the memory of both father and son—a moment symbolizing dreams taking flight, both literally and metaphorically.
