Legendary Field Marshall, Sam Manekshaw’s life and journey will soon be seen on the big screen. Actor Vicky Kaushal is all set to portray 1971 war hero in an upcoming biographical film Sam to be directed by Meghna Gulzar. Manekshaw was the Chief of Army Staff of the Indian Army. He commanded the Indian forces during the India-Pakistan 1971 war, when India fought the Bangladesh Liberation War with Pakistan. He was also the first Indian officer to be promoted to the rank of a field marshal.
The makers of the film decided to reveal the first look of the film on Sam Manekshaw’s death anniversary on Thursday. The film’s director Meghna Gulzar wrote: “A soldier’s soldier. A gentleman’s gentleman. In remembrance, on the death anniversary of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. It is my honour to tell the story of one of India’s greatest war heroes, with Vicky Kaushal essaying the historic man.”
Vicky Kaushal, who looked almost unrecognizable as Field Marshall Manekshaw, with a moustache, also shared the picture on social media and wrote: “I feel honoured, emotional and proud of getting a chance to unfold the journey of this fearless patriot, the swashbuckling general, the first Field Marshal of India- Sam Manekshaw. Remembering him on his death anniversary today and embracing the new beginnings with Meghna Gulzar and Ronnie Screwvala.”
Speaking to media, Megha Gulzar said that the film will delve into the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw but it is a not a biopic. “The film on Field Marshal Manekshaw is not a biopic. I’m looking at the man, his life and his times. I’m way over my head over here (the story),” she said.
Earlier, Meghna Gulzar and Vicky Kaushal had worked together in the 2018 hit film Raazi, in which Vicky played the role of a Pakistani army officer. Vicky, was most recently seen in Uri: The Surgical Strike
Ronnie Screwvala, who is backing the project through his RSVP banner, said, “Sam Manekshaw’s name will be etched in the history as one of the greatest soldiers and minds India has ever seen. Young India desperately needs role model to look up to, needs to be educated on the contribution made by this icon to India — as we know it today.”