The recent box office sensation “Fighter,” starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, has been grabbing headlines not only for its high-flying action sequences but also for a controversy surrounding its representation of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Amidst the uproar, Siddharth Anand, the director of the film, responded to criticisms voiced by an alleged IAF officer who tagged a specific intimate scene in the movie as ‘disrespectful’.
In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Anand shared his stance on the situation, underscoring the deep collaborative efforts pursued with the IAF throughout the film’s development. “IAF has been a co-collaborator on the film and has been a huge associate partner on our film. This film has gone through meticulous procedures with the IAF, right from the submission of the script, to the production planning, viewing the film before the censor board, watching it again at the IAF, reviewing the film after the censor, and then giving us a physical copy of the NOC (No Objection Certificate). Only after getting the NOC did we proceed with the censor certificate. We then presented the entire film to everyone in the Air Force, including the Air Force Chief, Mr. Chaudhary, and over 100 Air Marshals from across the country. We hosted a screening for them in Delhi one day prior to the film’s release. Their response was overwhelmingly positive, culminating in a standing ovation,” Anand revealed.
Further addressing the controversy, Anand asserted that extensive inquiries within the IAF confirmed that the individual purporting to be an officer and criticizing the film does not actually exist in their records. “We have checked with the concerned team, and they have informed us that no such person exists under the IAF. There will always be social commentary in our line of work, and we are accustomed to it,” said the filmmaker, indicating his nonchalance toward the unfounded claims.
Aside from the controversy, “Fighter” has been a triumph with fans, particularly for its musical score. Following the film’s release, the production team unveiled a new romantic song titled ‘Bekaar Dil’, which resonated well with the audience. Embracing the momentum, the makers have decided on a novel marketing strategy by attaching this hit song to the film, simulating a move last seen in Indian cinema back in 1990. This exceptional move enables viewers to experience the magnetic chemistry of Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone on the big screen, alongside the newly included track. It is indeed a rare moment, with nearly 33 years having elapsed since a major film was re-released with an additional song.
“Fighter” has enveloped audiences with its rich tapestry of patriotism and adrenaline-pumping aerial sequences, setting the stage for what could be a blockbuster capable of crossing the coveted 200 crore mark in India. Apart from its commercial success, the collaborative efforts with the IAF signify the film’s commitment to authenticity and respect toward the armed forces. This is further embodied by the robust support it garnered from high-ranking officials at the exclusive screening in Delhi.
As the film soars in theatres, controversy and commendation alike continue to heighten its visibility, proving that “Fighter” isn’t shying away from the spotlight anytime soon. With the fresh infusion of the ‘Bekaar Dil’ song, the film seeks not only to captivate but to capture the hearts of its audience, as Anand and his team navigate the turbulent skies of the Indian film industry.
