Sriram Raghavan captures Arun Khetarpal’s ultimate sacrifice with heart
Cinema has a unique way of bridging the gap between history books and the human heart. In his latest directorial venture, Sriram Raghavan departs from his signature dark thrillers to bring us a poignant masterpiece. This Ikkis Movie Review explores how a story from 1971 remains deeply relevant for the youth of today, especially for those in Odisha who take immense pride in our national heroes.
The film revolves around the legendary Lt. Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. At just 21, an age when most young men are figuring out their careers, Arun was leading tanks into the thick of the Battle of Basantar. Agastya Nanda steps into these big shoes with surprising sincerity. He portrays Arun not as a superhuman caricature, but as a focused, disciplined soldier whose bravery felt like a natural extension of his duty.
What makes this film stand out in the sea of 1971 India-Pakistan war movies is its dual narrative structure. While we witness Arun’s transformation from an NDA cadet to a battlefield hero in the 70s, the story also travels to 2001. Here, we meet his father, Brigadier Khetarpal, played by the iconic Dharmendra. In what is a bittersweet final performance, Dharmendra brings a haunting dignity to the screen. His journey to Pakistan for a reunion leads to a face-to-face meeting with a former adversary, played with chilling brilliance by Jaideep Ahlawat. This subplot adds a layer of reconciliation and human empathy that is rarely seen in traditional war cinema.
Technically, the film is a triumph. The tank battles are not just loud explosions; they are choreographed with a precision that makes you feel the claustrophobia and tension inside the iron giants. The production team deserves a standing ovation for recreating these historical machines from scratch. Anil Mehta’s cinematography captures the dusty, lethal landscape of the battlefield and the soft, nostalgic hues of the past with equal finesse.
For the audience in Odisha, where stories of Indian Army bravery are cherished, this film serves as a vital bridge. It isn’t just about the violence of war; it is about the emotional cost of service. While the music by White Noise Collective has hits and misses, the background score effectively heightens the stakes during the final showdown.
Supporting actors like Sikandar Kher and Rahul Dev provide solid grounding to the military atmosphere, ensuring the "Poona Horse" regiment feels authentic. Even though the romantic subplot with Simar Bhatia feels a bit light, it serves to remind us of the simple lives these soldiers left behind.
In conclusion, this film is a mandatory watch. It teaches us that heroism isn't defined by age, but by character. Whether you are visiting cinema halls in Bhubaneswar or watching elsewhere, prepare for an emotional journey that stays with you long after the credits roll.
