New Delhi: This year, as India commemorates 25 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Zee Cinema presents the World Television Premiere of 'Sam Bahadur', a tribute to one of India's greatest soldiers, Sam Manekshaw.
The film, starring Vicky Kaushal and directed by Meghna Gulzar, will air on Sunday, 28th July at 12 pm and 9 pm.
Also featuring Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh, 'Sam Bahadur' depicts the valour and strategic brilliance of General Sam Manekshaw, who played a pivotal role in the Indo-Pak War of 1971. The film, from the makers of critically acclaimed 'Uri' and 'Raazi', captures his journey from his early days to becoming India's first Field Marshal.
Vicky Kaushal shared his experience portraying Manekshaw, saying, "Playing Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was an honour. I remember my parents narrating to me stories about the 1971 war and the undeniable contribution of Sam sir. When we did the readings and went on floors, I could feel his presence and vividly remember telling Meghna, 'Sam is here!'"
Meghna Gulzar, the film's director, expressed the responsibility of portraying Manekshaw’s life accurately. "Our research began in 2017 where we tried to connect with as many people associated with him - his daughters, grandchildren, extended family, colleagues and military associates. The more I learned about Sam Manekshaw, the more strongly I believed, and still do - they don't make men like him anymore."
Sanya Malhotra, who plays Siloo, described the role as significant early in her career. "Vicky Kaushal played his character to the T, and what added even more excitement to this was sharing screen space with my first ever co-actor, Fatima Sana Shaikh."
Fatima Sana Shaikh added, “It was a moment of immense pride and an honour to be part of Meghna’s creative direction. I can’t wait for audiences to watch the film on Zee Cinema."