Bollywood’s beloved ‘Greek God’, Hrithik Roshan, recently engaged his massive social media following with an exhilarating behind-the-scenes (BTS) video from his latest film, “Fighter”. Offering an exclusive look into the high-flying world of his onscreen persona – a dedicated fighter pilot aptly named ‘Patty’ – Roshan took to Instagram to share moments of intense preparation and dedication required to bring this dynamic character to life on the big screen.
In the engaging BTS clip, the audience gets a taste of Roshan’s commitment as he performs a series of physically demanding tasks, including the precise art of maneuvering into the cockpit of the formidable Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet. With the tenacity of an actual air force officer, Roshan’s keen portrayal earned him considerable praise for the authenticity he brought to the character.
Accompanying the BTS clip, the star expressed his deep connection with Patty, emphasizing the character’s unyielding loyalty and duty towards his country. “Meet Patty – A #Fighter Pilot whose only allegiance is to his country. The sky is his playground, and his Sukhoi’s cockpit is his home. A fierce leader, an unwavering friend, and an enemy to be feared. But most of all, he’s a Fighter Forever,” wrote Roshan, encapsulating the patriotic spirit of his role.
However, the adrenaline-pumping film came under legal scrutiny following a scene that sparked controversy within the ranks of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The contentious moment depicts the film’s protagonists, played by Roshan and his co-star Deepika Padukone, locked in a kiss while clad in their IAF uniforms. This particular depiction has incited a formal complaint from Saumya Deep Das, an actual IAF officer from Assam, who argues that the scene undermines the honor and solemnity of the uniform.
Das’s grievance stipulates that the IAF uniform is an emblem of the nation’s security, duty, and selfless service, and as such should not be misused for storytelling that veers towards personal romance. The legal notice has added a layer of real-world discord to an otherwise celebratory release period for the patriotic-themed film.
Directed by notable filmmaker Siddharth Anand, “Fighter” presents a cinematic interpretation of events that succeeded the heartbreaking Pulwama attack, culminating in a dramatized retelling of India’s retaliatory airstrike on a terrorist camp. The movie traces the evolution of its lead characters amidst the backdrop of national calamity, interweaving elements of passion and duty as they navigate through the aftermath of terror and their budding relationship.
The film’s narrative owes its depth to the military perspective of writer Ramon Chibb, a seasoned Army officer commissioned in 1990 who hails from a family with a rich heritage of serving in the Indian Armed Forces. His personal military experiences and pedigree significantly contribute to the authenticity and gravity of the film’s portrayal of armed force personnel.
Since its release on January 25th, a day before Republic Day – a date symbolizing patriotism in India –, “Fighter” has drawn audiences to theaters, eager to witness the blend of high-octane action and tender human connections. Roshan and Padukone’s performances as Indian Air Force officers in the face of national crisis have not only captured the imagination of movie-goers but have also prompted impromptu debates on the intersection of creative freedom and respect for military institutions.
The behind-the-scenes insight into Roshan’s preparations has afforded fans a greater appreciation for the diligence of filmmaking while bringing into sharp focus the ongoing conversations surrounding the portrayal of armed forces in Indian cinema. As “Fighter” continues to navigate both acclaim and controversy, it inflames passion for compelling storytelling and respect for national symbols in equal measure.
