From Battlefield to Big Screen – Real Heroes Bring Veterans & Freedom Fighters' Stories to Life through film

First Post

4 days ago

Through authentic narratives, personal memories, and rare glimpses into their lives, the film brings forth the courage, sacrifices, and undying patriotism of a generation that defined India's spirit
As the nation marks its 79th Independence Day, Sony Liv & Gen S Life, dedicated to senior citizens, proudly announces the premiere of Real Heroes – a moving cinematic tribute to the nation's armed forces veterans and freedom fighters.
Streaming August 15, 11:00 AM exclusively on Sony LIV's YouTube Channel, Real Heroes captures the extraordinary journeys of those who fought for India's freedom and safeguarded its sovereignty in the years that followed.
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Through authentic narratives, personal memories, and rare glimpses into their lives, the film brings forth the courage, sacrifices, and undying patriotism of a generation that defined India's spirit.
A Legacy Preserved Through Film
Anirban Bhattacharyya, Director and Producer of Real Heroes, who has earlier created the and produced the landmark show Savdhaan India, and has authored multiple non-fiction bestsellers remarked: 'Creating this film has been one of the most humbling journeys of my life. These are not just war stories—they are human stories of loyalty, loss, resilience, and pride. They deserve to be etched in the national consciousness. I hope this film not only honours their sacrifices but also inspires a sense of duty and gratitude among the younger generation. This is our small effort to preserve living history before it fades away.'
With Real Heroes, Gen S Life reaffirms its commitment to celebrating India's senior citizens by giving voice to those who have lived through the nation's most defining moments. As India celebrates its Independence Day, this film offers a stirring reminder of the sacrifices that built its foundation—and of the individuals who continue to inspire generations to come.
Meenakshi Menon, Founder, Gen S Life, said, 'Our seniors are living custodians of India's legacy. With 'Real Heroes', we honour not only their service to the nation but their enduring spirit. These stories are both a tribute and a call to remember the foundations on which our freedom stands. It is our responsibility to ensure that these voices are not lost to time. We believe this film will move the nation and spark a deeper appreciation for those who paved the way for our future.'
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Directed by acclaimed Producer/Director and bestselling author Anirban Bhattacharyya, the film will be available for streaming on August 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM, exclusively on Sony LIV's official YouTube channel.
Stories of Service and Sacrifice
This film brings together the voices of national icons - heroes whose courage and convictions have shaped India's journey from the freedom struggle to modern-day military operations. Their stories span generations, bound by a common thread of duty, endurance, and unwavering love for the nation.
Lt Gen Sanjay Kulkarni (PVSM, AVSM, SC, SM, VSM), who led troops during the historic Operation Meghdoot, reflected: 'Siachen is one of the toughest postings. I remember the moment that our helicopter was hovering above the Bilafond Glacier and I locked my eyes with the Pakistani pilot in the enemy chopper! I compliment and laud this great initiative of GenS and Bhattacharyya for honouring our great soldiers for whom Naam Namak Nishan is a call worth sacrificing their lives for the Nation.'
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Col DPK Pillay (Shaurya Chakra) recalled a moment of profound humanity during a 1994 operation in Manipur: 'In the chaos of battle in Manipur, I learned the true meaning of soldiering: to be a saviour, not a killer. Shot in the chest and with my leg shattered during Operation Rakshak, I refused evacuation so the helicopter could rescue two injured children instead.'
Col Jasbir Singh, who sustained serious injuries during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, shared: 'Losing a limb wasn't the end of my story. It was the beginning of a deeper understanding—that service to the nation continues beyond the battlefield.'
Dr. G.G. Parikh, a 101-year-old freedom fighter imprisoned during the Quit India Movement, offered a powerful reminder: 'We resisted not with weapons, but with conscience. We were jailed, but never silenced. Today, we must remember the quiet strength of moral conviction that defined our freedom struggle.'
Brig. Shamsher Singh (AVSM), a key figure in the 1965 Battle of Haji Pir, recounted: 'Haji Pir was more than just a military objective—it was a symbol of our determination. We were prepared for the worst, yet walked forward with clarity and courage.'
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Gour Hari Das, a freedom fighter from Odisha, shared a deeply personal struggle:
'I fought for India's independence, and then I fought for recognition. Bureaucracy may have delayed it, but my resolve was unwavering. I just wanted my truth to be acknowledged.'
Lt Col B.T. Pandit (PVSM, VRC), a hero of the 1971 Battle of Basantar, remembered: 'Riding into enemy fire on a tank, I wasn't thinking about survival—I was thinking about the country. In those moments, there is only the mission.'
Commodore Medioma Bhada, who flew into enemy territory during the Chittagong operation in 1971, reflected: '54 years later, I can still remember the vital actions before take-off for a Seahawk…' Saying this, he rattles off a series of commands as if he was transported back into the cockpit of the Seahawk aboard the original INS Vikrant.