Operation Sindoor
On Wednesday, the Indian Armed Forces executed coordinated precision strikes codenamed ‘Operation Sindoor’, targeting terrorist hideouts across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The tri-service operation—involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force—focused on nine locations, including four in Pakistan (notably Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot) and five in PoK.
The strikes aimed to neutralize top operatives of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), terrorist groups allegedly responsible for orchestrating recent attacks on Indian soil, including the Pahalgam ambush. Indian authorities stated the mission was a preemptive response to dismantle terror infrastructure and disrupt plans for further assaults in the region.
Watch the planning of air strike in this film
If you want to understand Operation Sindoor completely, then I am going to tell you about a film which shows the complete planning and action of Operation Sindoor.
"Sky Force": A Soaring Tribute to Unsung Heroes Amidst Cinematic Turbulence
In 2025, Bollywood’s Sky Force took flight as a cinematic ode to the Indian Air Force’s valor during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War. Directed by Sandeep Kewlani and Abhishek Anil Kapur, this action-drama blends historical events with fictionalized storytelling, anchored by Akshay Kumar’s compelling performance and a narrative that oscillates between aerial spectacle and bureaucratic grit. While the film has sparked debate over its technical execution, it undeniably succeeds in honoring the sacrifices of forgotten heroes.
Plot: A Quest for Truth Across Decades
Sky Force interweaves timelines, opening in 1971 with Wing Commander Kumar Om Ahuja (Akshay Kumar) interrogating a captured Pakistani pilot, Ahmed Hussain (Sharad Kelkar), to uncover the fate of his comrade, Squadron Leader T.K. “Tabby” Vijaya (Veer Pahariya). The story flashes back to 1965, depicting India’s retaliatory airstrike on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase—a mission inspired by real events where Indian pilots faced technologically superior U.S.-supplied Starstriker jets . Tabby, a maverick pilot, disappears during the mission, prompting Ahuja’s decades-long pursuit of justice against bureaucratic indifference . The emotional climax reveals Tabby’s heroic sacrifice, posthumously earning him the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest military honor .
Performances: Kumar’s Gravitas and Pahariya’s Promising Debut
Akshay Kumar delivers a nuanced portrayal of Ahuja, balancing stoic leadership with vulnerability. Critics praise his ability to humanize a character burdened by guilt and duty, marking a return to form after recent career fluctuations . Newcomer Veer Pahariya shines as Tabby, infusing the role with charisma and intensity, though some argue his character’s development leans on tropes like “reckless heroism” . Sara Ali Khan, as Tabby’s wife Geeta, is underutilized but adds emotional weight to the domestic subplot .
Production: High Ambitions, Mixed Execution
With a budget of ₹160 crore, Sky Force ambitiously recreates aerial combat but faces criticism for its reliance on CGI. While the cinematography captures the grandeur of dogfights, the visual effects often resemble “mid-90s PlayStation cutscenes,” detracting from immersion . The film’s pacing also divides audiences: the first half struggles with slow-motion excess and disjointed musical numbers, while the second half soars with a gripping investigation into Tabby’s fate . Notably, the screenplay avoids jingoism, emphasizing mutual respect between Indian and Pakistani soldiers—a refreshing departure from Bollywood’s usual hyper-nationalism .
Themes: Patriotism Without Sensationalism
Sky Force distinguishes itself by focusing on bureaucratic hurdles and the personal toll of war. Ahuja’s battles against military red tape highlight systemic challenges faced by soldiers, adding layers of realism . The film also pays tribute to Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya, whose real-life heroism inspired Tabby’s arc . However, the script occasionally falters with clichéd dialogues, such as Ahuja declaring, “Tera Baap, Hindustan” (“Your father is India”), which critics argue undermine its nuanced approach .
Reception: Box Office and Critical Divides
Released during India’s Republic Day weekend, Sky Force earned ₹168.88 crore globally, reflecting moderate success . Critics laud its emotional depth and historical research but note its uneven execution. While The Guardian calls it a “sober yet resistible flagwaver,” Times of India hails it as a “cinematic flight worth boarding” . Audience reviews on IMDb highlight tearful tributes and standing ovations, though some dismiss it as a Top Gun clone .
Conclusion: A Worthy Tribute with Room for Altitude
Sky Force soars when grounded in human drama, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices behind military glory. Despite technical flaws and pacing issues, its heartfelt storytelling and restrained patriotism make it a significant entry in Bollywood’s war genre. As director Sandeep Kewlani noted, the film is less about enemies and more about “the unsung heroes who redefine courage” . For viewers seeking a blend of history, action, and emotion, Sky Force is a turbulent yet rewarding journey.