Meghna Gulzar, the director behind the much-anticipated biopic 'Sam Bahadur,' has shown an unwavering commitment to historical accuracy, going to great lengths to recreate an iconic moment involving Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. Recreating the iconic photograph of him standing amongst Gorkha soldiers during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, Meghna's dedication brought an emotional moment on set.
This specific image holds immense historical significance, capturing a moment when Manekshaw, belonging to the Gorkha regiment, stood amidst tall grass, giving instructions to the troops during the war. The photograph symbolizes his guidance to prevent any harassment of Bangladeshi refugees, reflecting his leadership, orders, and motivation during that crucial time in history.
For Meghna, recreating this particular scene was deeply personal. She revealed, "This is one of the most iconic photos of Sam Manekshaw, and it has been a part of my laptop wallpaper for over 4-5 years. So, when I had to recreate this exact scene, it held profound personal significance for me."
Describing the behind-the-scenes process, she expressed the overwhelming feeling of finding the location and setting up the scene, unsure if they could replicate it successfully. Yet, witnessing the shot on the monitor, mirroring the iconic photo, was an immensely emotional moment for her. Meghna reflected on the journey, saying, "To suddenly see that shot on the monitor in front of me was very emotional for me. I think we came pretty close."
'Sam Bahadur' is a comprehensive biopic chronicling the life and military career of the legendary Field Marshal, covering pivotal moments from his time in the Indian Military Academy during the British Raj to his leadership during significant wars and conflicts, including the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Starring Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, Fatima Sana Sheikh, and others, the film is set to hit theaters on December 1, 2023.
(With Agency Inputs)
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