The magic that Dangal created at the box office is still fresh in my mind. The film also gave the industry two stars in the form of Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh and it has been a pleasure to witness both these actresses forge a path of their own and make a niche for themselves. I have personally admired the film choices that Sanya has made till date and even Fatima is making a mark of her own. And now there is some interesting development, as the on-screen sisters are reuniting after five years for a Ronnie Screwvala production.
Check out the announcement here:
The project in question is Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur, starring Vicky Kaushal, and on the occasion of the filmmaker’s birthday, the makers made the big announcement. Sam Bahadur features Vicky in the role of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and the film is based on the life of the late Indian war hero.
Talking about this development, Meghna says:
“I have much to celebrate… There is pride in the commemoration of 50 years of the historic win of our forces in the 1971 War. And it’s very exciting to have Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh join the team of Sam Bahadur. Both their roles in the film require a great deal of sensitivity, dignity and composure and I’m looking forward to the ladies bringing these characters to life.”
Sanya will bring to life the character of Manekshaw’s wife Siloo Manekshaw, who was his pillar, while Fatima will step into the shoes of India’s first and till date, only female Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi.
On her inclusion in the project, Sanya says:
“Behind every great man is a woman and Silloo Manekshaw was that support and strength to Sam Bahadur. I’m honoured to essay this role and bring to light her integral part and influence in this war hero’s life. I’m also extremely thankful to Meghna Gulzar and really looking forward to this exciting journey with her.”
Resonating with the feeling, Fatima says:
“I’m very happy to join the Sam Bahadur family and take on the challenge of essaying the role of one of the most influential and talked about women in Indian history. What intrigued and excited me the most was the passion with which the makers hope to honour his memory and legacy through this film.”
An excited Vicky welcomes his co-stars saying:
“Sanya and Fatima, with their characters, bring more character and substance to the story of Sam Bahadur and, I am very excited to be working with them together for the first time. Their characters have been one of the most influential personalities we have heard about and now, the audience will witness the story of their valour, commitment and resilience. I welcome both of them to our Manekshaw family and look forward to sharing the screen with two of the most talented and diligent actors of our generation”
Sam Manekshaw had a career in military for over four decades in which he had been a part of five wars, including the 1971 Indo-Pak war. And it was under his command as Chief of Army Staff that the Indian army achieved a decisive victory over Pakistan, and this year marks 50 years to that historic win.
A proud producer, Ronnie Screwvala says:
“It’s a very special day for us as the Sam Bahadur tribe grows bigger and we also celebrate the birthday of our director Meghna Gulzar. Manekshaw’s legendary status, in war and life, are fondly remembered and still remain relevant to this day. We are so excited to bring together some of the most talented actors who aren’t afraid to push the envelope or get in the skin of their characters to tell that story.”
Having seen the growth that both Sanya and Fatima have shown in the last five years, I am excited to see the two back together on screen, that too in such a momentous project. Off the screen, the two actresses are best of friends and it will be a pleasure to see their evolved chemistry on screen again. As for their co-star Vicky, the new groom is already on a high personally and professionally, so I am really interested in watching him portray such an iconic personality on screen.