Veteran Army Officer Questions Commercial Intent Behind Patriotic Cinema Wave in India
In recent years, films fueled by nationalistic sentiment have gained significant traction among Indian audiences, establishing a prominent niche in the cinematic landscape. Market analysts attribute this rising trend to viewers flocking to theaters, providing a much-needed boost to an otherwise sluggish theatrical market. However, this intersection of cinema and patriotism raises critical questions about authenticity and intent.
When Cinema Borrows the Uniform: Authority, Credibility, and Emotional Weight
For retired Indian Army officer Colonel Rajeev Bharwan, the concern isn't with patriotic storytelling itself, but rather with the underlying motivations driving these productions. "Honestly, if you ask me, most of the movies I don't see. It's only for one reason, and that's the intent," he reveals, highlighting what he perceives as an increasing focus on commercial viability over genuine representation.
Colonel Bharwan believes that the commercialization of defense narratives, packaged with what he describes as filmy tadka (cinematic spice), has become a preferred marketing strategy. "Most people make these movies because they know this is how it will sell in the market. Whether it is patriotic, whether it is uniform, or whether it is the army, it is being sold in the market. This is a fact," he states bluntly.
The Distinction Between Raw Reality and Cinematic Representation
The retired colonel is careful to clarify that his discomfort doesn't stem from patriotic cinema as a concept, but rather from what he calls the 'modelled' onscreen depiction of soldiers' lives and sacrifices. "For instance, Param Vir Chakra is bestowed on people who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. You don't need background music to show that," he emphasizes.
Drawing a powerful parallel with the Republic Day parade, Colonel Bharwan observes, "What happens on 26th January is raw and real. When people see our officers in uniform, it results in goosebumps." For him, this distinction highlights how cinematic embellishments can dilute the profound reality of military service.
The Pitfalls of Selective Storytelling and the Need for Authentic Consultation
According to the veteran officer, this dilution often leads to selective storytelling that misses crucial emotional depth. He strongly advocates for defense consultants to be involved in such projects to avoid these pitfalls. "They make films and then sprinkle them with small anecdotes, leaving out the real emotions. There are a few films which are good. But I feel if they had consulted and taken the right advice, then it would have added a lot of value," he suggests.
At its core, Colonel Bharwan asserts that the entire debate revolves around intent. "If the intent is not how much money the film makes but rather at straightening the spine of the countrymen, to give meaning to the generations to come, then it will add more value," he explains.
Personal Philosophy: Being the Change Rather Than Observing It
This sense of authenticity and responsibility forms the foundation of his personal philosophy. Colonel Bharwan has long been an advocate for building citizens who contribute to the nation in their own unique ways. When asked during his sessions whether he believes the country is changing, he promptly interrupts the question. "I don't want to see the change. I don't want to compare. I want to be the change," he declares.
He elaborates in Hindi, "India ne kya diya, India main kya badlav aaya usse jada mera yeh focus rehta hai ki maine kya kiya India ke liye. I am trying to contribute. Giving is always more awakening." Translating his thoughts, he adds, "Many people have complaints about India, but I ask them: What have you done for this country? Rather than expecting the change, be the change."
The Essence of the Critique: A Call for Sincerity in Patriotic Narratives
In this concluding reflection lies the heart of Colonel Bharwan's critique. His perspective doesn't represent a rejection of patriotic cinema, but rather a passionate appeal for sincerity and authenticity. For those who have actually worn the uniform and lived the experience, patriotism cannot be captured through background scores or box-office strategies alone.
True patriotism, according to the retired officer, manifests as a quiet, continuous act of giving—both within and beyond the uniform. This fundamental understanding creates a significant gap between cinematic portrayals and lived military experience, raising important questions about how India's defense forces should be represented in popular culture moving forward.
