Stream these films that captured India's most daring military missions

As India engages in Operation Sindoor—a decisive military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terrorist attack that claimed 26 lives—it's timely to reflect on how Indian cinema has portrayed the valour and sacrifices of the nation's armed forces. Bollywood has a rich history of dramatising real-life military operations, offering audiences a window into the strategic brilliance and personal stories behind these missions.

Here's an in-depth look at notable films that depict significant Indian military operations:

Sam Bahadur (2023)

Operation: 1971 Indo-Pak War – Eastern Command's Operation for Bangladesh Liberation

Directed by Meghna Gulzar, this biographical war drama chronicles the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, focusing on his leadership during the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal brings to life the strategic brilliance and charisma of one of India's most celebrated military leaders.

Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)

Operation: Retaliation to the 2016 Uri attack

Depicting India's surgical strikes across the Line of Control, this film showcases the meticulous planning and execution of the mission. Vicky Kaushal's role as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill embodies the determination and precision of the Indian Army.

Avrodh: The Siege Within (2020)

Operation: 2016 Uri Surgical Strike

This web series offers a detailed portrayal of the events leading up to and following the surgical strike, emphasising the strategic decisions and intelligence operations involved. The series is based on a chapter from the book India’s Most Fearless by Shiv Aroor and Rahul Singh.

Shershaah (2021) - Prime Video

Operation: Kargil War, 1999 — Point 4875 & 5140 Tiger Hill region

This film tells the story of Captain Vikram Batra, whose heroism during the Kargil War earned him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. Sidharth Malhotra's performance captures Batra's indomitable spirit and the intense combat scenarios of the conflict.

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Major (2022) - Netflix

Operation: 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks: Operation Black Tornado

Adivi Sesh stars as Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, highlighting his bravery during the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The film reviews his personal journey and the critical role he played in rescuing hostages, paying tribute to his ultimate sacrifice.

Amaran (2024) - Netflix

Operation: 2014 Qazipathri Operation, Shopian District, Jammu & Kashmir

Amaran is a biographical war drama that chronicles the life of Major Mukund Varadarajan, an officer of the 44 Rashtriya Rifles. The film centres around the 2014 counter-insurgency operation in Qazipathri, where Major Varadarajan led a mission against heavily armed militants. His leadership and bravery during this operation earned him the Ashoka Chakra posthumously. 

Fighter (2024) - Netflix

Operation: 2019 Pulwama attack, Balakot airstrike, and India–Pakistan border skirmishes

Starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, this aerial action film dramatises the Indian Air Force's responses to the Pulwama attack, including the Balakot airstrike, highlighting the courage and skill of fighter pilots. The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of aerial combat and was produced while involving real-life Indian Air Force personnel.