Vicky Kaushal, known for his versatility and impactful performances in Bollywood, has recently shared his perspective on the trend of patriotic films, expressing reservations about reducing "desh prem" (love for the country) to a mere formula.
Kaushal, who has starred in films like "Uri: The Surgical Strike" and "Sam Bahadur", both with patriotic themes, acknowledges the importance of these stories, but cautions against their formulaic representation. He emphasizes that patriotism is a genuine emotion and should not be exploited for commercial gain. According to Kaushal, filmmakers should approach such subjects with sincerity and avoid turning them into a superficial or repetitive trope.
"Uri: The Surgical Strike," released in 2019, was a significant film in Kaushal's career, depicting the Indian Army's response to the 2016 Uri attack. The film was a commercial success and was praised for its direction, cinematography, and Kaushal's performance as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill. "Uri" received four National Film Awards.
In "Sam Bahadur," Kaushal portrayed Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, a pivotal figure in Indian military history. The film, directed by Meghna Gulzar, aimed to capture the multifaceted personality of Manekshaw, known for his strategic brilliance and charismatic leadership. Released in December 2023, "Sam Bahadur" garnered mixed reviews but was a commercial success. The film received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values.
Kaushal's filmography demonstrates his ability to portray a range of characters across different genres. He has received praise for his roles in movies such as "Raman Raghav 2.0" and "Manmarziyaan". This versatility allows him to connect with audiences on an emotional level and avoid being typecast in patriotic roles.
The actor's comments come at a time when Bollywood has seen an increase in films with nationalistic themes. While these films have often found commercial success, some critics have argued that they sometimes lack depth and nuance, reducing patriotism to a simplistic narrative. Kaushal's perspective encourages filmmakers to explore patriotism with greater responsibility and artistic integrity, ensuring that these stories resonate authentically with audiences. He advocates for a balance between commercial viability and genuine storytelling, urging the industry to move beyond surface-level representations and delve into the true essence of love for the nation.
