Randeep Hooda to lead in film Operation Khukri based on 'Indian Army’s most daring mission'

Randeep took to his Instagram on Tuesday and shared a picture holding the book 'Operation Khukri'.

Actor Randeep Hooda is set to play the lead role in the upcoming military drama film Operation Khukri based on one of Indian Army’s most daring peacekeeping missions abroad. The actor confirmed the same on social media on May 20.

Based on true events from the year 2000, the film recounts the gripping story of 233 soldiers taken hostage by rebel forces in Sierra Leone, West Africa, and the daring, high-stakes rescue mission launched to save them.

Randeep took to his Instagram on Tuesday and shared a picture holding the book 'Operation Khukri'. The caption read, "#OperationKhukri — a tale of grit, courage, and the Indian Army’s most daring mission under the UN flag. Honoured to bring this story to screen. Jai Hind!"

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A post shared by Randeep Hooda (@randeephooda)

Major General Raj Pal Punia, played by Randeep Hooda in the movie, was a young Company Commander with the 14th Mechanised Infantry at the time of the actual events. He was instrumental in leading a courageous rescue effort through perilous jungle combat and handling the tense standoff. Hooda declared his belief that the movie would strike a deep chord with viewers, describing it as a tale that will emotionally and inspirationally touch every Indian.

"‘Operation Khukri’ is a story that moved me deeply. It’s not just a tale of guns and glory, but of sacrifice, brotherhood, and unyielding courage in the face of insurmountable odds. To step into the shoes of Major General Punia, a man who led his men out of a 75-day siege in an unknown land, is an honour and a responsibility. Our aim is to bring to life a chapter of Indian military history that deserves far more recognition — not just for the spectacle, but for the spirit of our soldiers who would rather die than surrender,” the actor-filmmaker said in a statement.

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“Operation Khukri” draws its inspiration from the bestselling book Operation Khukri: The Untold Story of the Indian Army’s Bravest Peacekeeping Mission Abroad, published by Penguin Random House India.

Filmmaker Rahul Mittra and actor Randeep Hooda have acquired the adaptation rights. While the film is currently in development, key details such as the director and full cast are yet to be officially revealed.

(With inputs from PTI)