Operation Sindoor: Meet the actors who were with Indian Armed forces before joining Bollywood

As the echoes of Operation Sindoor reverberate across the nation, India's military strength is again under the global lens. But the limelight isn’t confined to defense strategies and war rooms—some faces from the silver screen also share a history of valiant service. These actors didn’t just portray patriots in films—they donned real uniforms and served India with honor.

Nana Patekar: From Sets to the Frontlines

Renowned for his gritty performances, veteran actor Nana Patekar once answered a real call of duty during the 1999 Kargil conflict. Though initially denied, his persistence—and prior intense training with the Maratha Light Infantry for the film Prahaar—led then-Defense Minister George Fernandes to grant him a temporary commission. By August 1999, Patekar was officially serving as a captain in the Indian Army, bridging his reel heroism with real sacrifice.

Bikramjeet Kanwarpal: Soldier Before Stardom

The late Bikramjeet Kanwarpal wore the olive green long before stepping into the limelight. Enlisting in 1989, he served with distinction until retiring as a major in 2002. Inspired by his father, Lt. Col. Dwarka Nath Kanwarpal, his army values remained with him throughout his acting career. Known for roles in Page 3, 2 States, and 24, he often reminisced about his time in service—stories fondly remembered by colleagues after his untimely passing at 52 due to COVID-19.

Achyut Potdar: From Lecture Halls to Army Camps

Before gracing Bollywood with performances in 3 Idiots and Lage Raho Munna Bhai, Achyut Potdar served in the Indian Army. Beginning his career as a professor, he soon pivoted to military service and later to films at age 44. His decades-spanning acting journey is rooted in the discipline he acquired during his army tenure, which concluded in 1967.

Gufi Paintal: Patriot Behind the Iconic Villain

Best known as 'Shakuni Mama' from Mahabharata, Gufi Paintal also served India during the 1962 Indo-China War. Then a student of engineering, he was recruited directly from college and joined the Artillery unit along the China border—an experience that shaped his resilience and on-screen intensity.

Anand Bakshi & Rehman: Naval and Aerial Service

Lyricist Anand Bakshi served in the Indian Navy from 1944 to 1956 before becoming a musical legend. Similarly, actor Rehman once flew with the Royal Indian Air Force before becoming a matinee idol through films like Waqt and Pyar Ki Jeet.

Mohammed Ali Shah: Legacy of Valor

Naseeruddin Shah’s nephew, Mohammed Ali Shah, brought authenticity to his army officer role in Haider—a role he lived in real life as an officer posted at the Indo-Pak border for two years before joining cinema.