A Bollywood film based on ‘Operation Sindoor’, India’s recent military strikes in Pakistan, has stirred up major controversy. The film was announced just days after the real operation, sparking public backlash on social media.
Director Uttam Maheshwari revealed the movie with a bold poster showing a female soldier applying sindoor on the battlefield. The scene included tanks, jets, and explosions, which many found insensitive given the current situation.
Critics slammed the timing, with users calling it “shameful” and “disrespectful”. Many felt the film tried to cash in on national trauma, urging for a boycott and more respect for Indian soldiers.
After facing heat online, Maheshwari publicly apologised, saying he didn’t mean to offend anyone. He claimed the film was meant to honour the armed forces, not profit from their sacrifice.
He admitted the timing was poor and said the story comes from a place of deep patriotism. “This is not just a film, it’s an emotion,” he added, thanking the Prime Minister and saluting the soldiers.
Interestingly, over 30 film titles inspired by the operation have already been submitted to film associations. Bollywood seems to be rushing to turn recent real-life events into cinema.
As emotions run high in the country, many are asking: When does patriotism become profiteering?