Sam Bahadur,The movie is based on the life of Sam Manekshaw, India’s first Field Marshal. Before diving into the film, let’s learn about Sam Bahadur. He played a crucial role alongside Indira Gandhi in separating East Pakistan from Pakistan and establishing Bangladesh, strengthening India’s position. Indira Gandhi made significant political decisions, and Sam Manekshaw, as the top officer in the army, successfully executed her plans, making history.
He even famously wrote to Indira Gandhi on a piece of paper before the war, informing her when the conflict would begin. Even before the 1971 war, he displayed valour on numerous occasions. He served since the time when India and Pakistan were one country under British rule. From the Second World War to the 1962 India-China war, in his forty years of service, he led the country to victory in many significant battles.
Sam Bahadur, The Movie
Sam Bahadur,The movie is based on the life of Sam Manekshaw, India’s first Field Marshal. Before diving into the film, let’s learn about Sam Bahadur. He played a crucial role alongside Indira Gandhi in separating East Pakistan from Pakistan and establishing Bangladesh, strengthening India’s position. Indira Gandhi made significant political decisions, and Sam Manekshaw, as the top officer in the army, successfully executed her plans, making history.
He even famously wrote to Indira Gandhi on a piece of paper before the war, informing her when the conflict would begin. Even before the 1971 war, he displayed valour on numerous occasions. He served since the time when India and Pakistan were one country under British rule. From the Second World War to the 1962 India-China war, in his forty years of service, he led the country to victory in many significant battles.
Let’s move to the film now. In this movie, Vicky Kaushal portrays Sam Manekshaw. Directed by Meghna Gulzar of ‘Raazi’ fame, ‘Sam Bahadur’ starts from Sam’s childhood, where he was known as Sam. His parents named him Cyrus, but they worry about this name because a thief with the same name was caught in the neighbourhood last night. The film showcases Sam’s transformation into a soldier, appearing in uniform with a robust and confident demeanour. He becomes a part of the Second World War and heads to Burma, participating in several battles, all of which you’ll witness in the film.
Speaking of acting, if we’re talking about Vicky Kaushal’s performance, it’s outstanding. He has truly embodied the character of Sam Manekshaw. From the military officer’s aura to his farsightedness, decision-making ability, manner of speaking, in every aspect, Vicky Kaushal has shown charisma. Watching him on screen, you can gauge the depth of dedication he must have put into this role, just like Sam Manekshaw, who poured his heart into saving the nation’s pride.
If you think this film might be dull due to its focus on the army, politics, and war, you might be pleasantly surprised. Amidst the seriousness, there are several moments in the film that will make you laugh heartily. You can imagine how fantastic Sam Manekshaw’s sense of humor might have been from this movie! It’s not just about war and military discipline; even in grave situations, there are many scenes that will make you laugh. You’ll even see a moment where he calls PM Indira Gandhi ‘Sweetie.’ Similarly, even after being shot nine times during the Burma war, he’s seen smiling.
Why should you watch it?
Well, if you’re into films based on the army, history, and patriotism, this movie is a must-watch. It enriches your knowledge about the nation’s past. It’s a film worth watching with family, an excellent opportunity to educate children about a war hero, so don’t miss out.
Why not watch it?
Comparing Sam Bahadur’s valour and Vicky Kaushal’s acting to other films might seem unfair. However, if you’re more into spicy drama films, this one might not appeal to you.
Vicky Kaushal steals the show throughout the film. Apart from him, other star cast members don’t receive much focus. Alongside Vicky Kaushal, there are actors like Sanya Malhotra (Sam Bahadur’s wife), Fatima Sana Shaikh (Indira Gandhi), Neeraj Kabi (Pandit Nehru), and Mohammad Jishan Ayub (Yahya Khan). But characters like Pandit Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and especially Indira Gandhi’s stature in the political world aren’t showcased in the film, nor do we get to see any significant expressions from them.
The film doesn’t portray war scenes with much detail. There’s a scene where Sam Manekshaw sends a message to boost soldiers’ morale by saying, “If you can’t pick up the gun, wear bangles.” While this might have been said or not said in reality by Sam Manekshaw, such scenes in the film might have been better avoided. Nonetheless, Vicky Kaushal adeptly covers up some of the directorial shortcomings with his acting. He’s held the film together from start to finish, just as Sam Bahadur safeguarded the nation’s security.
