As the tricolour unfurls this Republic Day, the air feels heavy with pride and gratitude for the nation. The day commemorates a historic milestone for Indian democracy, as our legislation came into effect. Celebrating this day, a wave of patriotism hits everyone, and thus, several take this day as an opportunity to salute the silent sacrifices of Indian soldiers. Over the years, Indian cinema has helped bring these stories closer to audiences, bridging the gap between history books and real emotions. From battlefields to covert missions, unforgettable performances by Vicky Kaushal, Sidharth Malhotra, Akshay Kumar and others prove one thing — behind every uniform is a human story of grit, love, and devotion. These stories connect ordinary hearts to the battlefield.
Vicky Kaushal as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill
In ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ (2019), directed by Aditya Dhar, Vicky Kaushal transforms into Major Vihaan Singh Shergill, alongside Yami Gautam, Paresh Rawal, and Mohit Raina. Kaushal embodies the raw emotion of a man driven by an unwavering sense of duty. He avoids turning the character into a larger-than-life superhero, instead portraying a grounded soldier guided by strategy, restraint, and intent.
Vicky Kaushal as Sam Manekshaw
In ‘Sam Bahadur’ (2023), directed by Meghna Gulzar and starring Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh, Kaushal plays India’s first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. He masterfully captures Manekshaw’s iconic gait, sharp wit, and commanding presence. The performance reminds us that true leadership lies as much in character and humour as it does in authority — a sincere tribute to a man who defined Indian military excellence for decades.
Veer Pahariya as Squadron Leader A.P. Devayya
In ‘Sky Force’ (2025), directed by Sandeep Kelwani and Abhishek Kapur, Veer Pahariya steps into the role of Squadron Leader A.P. Devayya. Starring alongside Akshay Kumar and Sara Ali Khan, he brings to life the hero of the 1965 Indo-Pak war. Devayya’s story is one of extraordinary valour — shooting down an enemy Starfighter even after his own aircraft was critically damaged. The film ensures that a hero once declared “missing in action” finally receives his due cinematic salute.
Akshay Kumar as Captain Virat Bakshi
Akshay Kumar plays Captain Virat Bakshi, a Defence Intelligence Agency specialist, in ‘Holiday: A Soldier Is Never Off Duty’, directed by A.R. Murugadoss. Co-starring Sonakshi Sinha and Freddy Daruwala, the film presents a different perspective on the uniform. It reminds us that a soldier’s duty doesn’t end when the uniform comes off — the mission follows them everywhere. Kumar’s portrayal highlights the constant vigilance required to keep the nation safe.
Gurmeet Choudhary as Commander Karan Saxena
Gurmeet Choudhary brings sharp intensity as ‘Commander Karan Saxena’ in the espionage series directed by Jatin Wagle. Starring alongside Iqbal Khan and Hruta Durgule, Choudhary portrays the modern-day warrior who operates in silence, away from applause. Through raw patriotism and restraint, he captures the selfless dedication of those who put the country above everything else.
Sidharth Malhotra as Captain Vikram Batra
In ‘Shershaah’ (2021), Sidharth Malhotra delivers a career-defining performance as Captain Vikram Batra. Directed by Vishnuvardhan and co-starring Kiara Advani, the film carries the spirit of “Yeh Dil Maange More.” More than a war film, Shershaah is a story of love, courage, and sacrifice. Malhotra’s portrayal ensures that Captain Batra’s legacy lives on for generations to come.
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