Operation Sindoor director apologises after facing backlash for announcing film amid India-Pak tension: ‘Not for fame’

Following the announcement of a film centered on Operation Sindoor during heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Uttam Maheshwari, the film’s director, has apologized due to facing criticism. Taking to his Instagram Stories on Saturday morning, Uttam said that he wants to direct the film “not for fame and monetisation”. He added that he was moved by “the courage, sacrifice, and strength of our soldiers and leadership”.

Uttam said that by announcing the film, he didn’t want to “hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments”. He wrote, “My sincere apologies for recently announcing a film based on Operation Sindoor, inspired by the recent heroic efforts of our Indian Armed Forces. The intent was never to hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments. As a filmmaker, I was moved by the courage, sacrifice, and strength of our soldiers and leadership, and simply wished to bring this powerful story to light.”

He added that the “timing and sensitivity may have caused discomfort or pain to some”. “This project was born out of deep respect and love for our nation and not for fame and monetisation. However, I understand the timing and sensitivity may have caused discomfort or pain to some. For that, I deeply regret (folded hands emoji). This is not just a film, it’s an emotion of the entire nation and a social image of the country globally,” Uttam added.

In his note, he thanked PM Narendra Modi and the armed forces. “Thanks to our army and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, who make us proud by working day and night for the country with the motto of Always Nation First. Our love and prayers will always be with the families of the martyrs, as well as the Bravo warriors who are fighting on the border day and night to give us a new morning. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!” concluded his note.

On Friday, Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films and The Content Engineer officially announced the film titled Operation Sindoor. In the poster of Operation Sindoor, a female soldier, dressed in uniform, is seen standing with her back.

While she held a rifle in one hand, she applied sindoor (vermilion) on her forehead with her other hand. Firetanks, blasts and fighter jets were also seen in the poster.