The Indian Army is celebrating its 78th Army Day in Jaipur—for the first time in history outside a cantonment area, allowing greater public participation and visibility. This day is celebrated on 15th January in recognition of the transfer of power when the last British Commander-in-Chief, General Sir Francis Roy Bucher, formally handed over charge to Lieutenant-General Kodandera M. (K. M.) Cariappa, who became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army.
Moreover, on this day, we honor the sacrifices and services of army personnel who not only protect our borders but also extend their service during calamities. This year’s parade theme, “Year of Networking and Data Centricity,” emphasizes the advancement of technology in the military, underscoring the Indian Army’s strength in both traditional and modern warfare.
Talking about service and sacrifice, the Bollywood industry has never hesitated to pay tribute to the Indian Army. Let’s explore some films that embody the valor and service of India’s armed forces.
Border (1997)
Border, directed by J. P. Dutta, portrays the courage and camaraderie of the Indian Army. The war drama is based on the Battle of Longewala during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The film depicts the heroic stand of nearly 120 Indian soldiers who defended their post throughout the night against an overwhelming Pakistani force until reinforcements from the Indian Air Force arrived the following morning. Beyond the battlefield, the movie also highlights the personal lives of soldiers who lay down their lives for the nation.
LOC: Kargil (2003)
LOC: Kargil is an epic war film depicting the real events of the Kargil War of 1999, when Pakistani forces infiltrated the Line of Control, leading to intense combat and heavy casualties. Once again, director J. P. Dutta masterfully showcases the valor and courage of Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the motherland. His ability to combine large-scale combat with personal narratives intensifies the emotional impact on the audience.
The Ghazi Attack (2017)
Capturing the essence of underwater warfare, The Ghazi Attack stands out as a tense and gripping cinematic experience. The film fictionalizes the sinking of PNS Ghazi, where the Pakistan Navy undertook a covert mission to destroy the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, and gain control of the Bay of Bengal. Anticipating the threat, the Indian Navy deployed its older, less-equipped submarine S-21 (INS Karanj) for surveillance, leading to a nerve-wracking battle of strategy and intellect beneath the sea.
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
Based on true events, Uri: The Surgical Strike portrays the retaliatory mission undertaken by the Indian Army after militants infiltrated the Uri base camp and killed 19 soldiers, including the brother-in-law of the protagonist, Major Vihaan Singh Shergill. To avenge the fallen soldiers, the army planned and executed a mission targeting terrorist launch pads, completing it successfully without a single casualty. The film’s gripping screenplay, emotional depth, powerful performances, and electrifying dialogues kept audiences hooked till the very end.
Sam Bahadur (2023)
Courage, strategic brilliance, integrity, and charismatic leadership came together in Sam Manekshaw, fondly known as Sam Bahadur—India’s first Field Marshal. The film traces his remarkable journey through five wars during his four-decade-long service in the Indian Army, highlighting his rise to one of the most respected military leaders in Indian history. It also explores his personal life and his ability to navigate internal politics while strengthening the armed forces.
Dedicating a single day to the Indian Army can never truly match the magnitude of their service and sacrifice. Yet, remembering and honoring these veterans on Army Day is the least we can do to pay tribute to those who safeguard the nation.
Image courtesy: Pixabay
