RSVP and Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur have added two more cast members: Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra will play tough parts in RSVP and Meghna Gulzar’s Sam Bahadur. The news of their addition to the cast of Sam Bahadur, a film based on the lives and times of the heroic Sam Manekshaw, one of India’s greatest military heroes, comes on Meghna Gulzar’s birthday.
Manekshaw served in the military for four decades and five wars. He was the first Indian Army officer to be promoted to the rank of Field Marshal, and as Chief of Army Staff, he oversaw the Indian Army’s victorious victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the 1971 war.
While Vicky Kaushal plays the protagonist, Sanya Malhotra will portray his wife, Silloo, who is Manekshaw’s rock and support. Indira Gandhi, the country’s first female Prime Minister, is played by Fatima Sana Shaikh.
“I have plenty to celebrate,” filmmaker Meghna Gulzar says as the Sam Bahadur family grows. The 50th anniversary of our warriors’ great victory in the 1971 War is a source of pride. Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh have joined Sam Bahadur’s squad, which is really exciting. Both of their roles in the film need a high level of sensitivity, elegance, and poise, and I’m excited to see how the ladies bring these characters to life.”
Say Vicky Kaushal, “Sanya and Fatima with their characters bring more character and substance to the story of SamBahadur 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.”
Says Sanya Malhotra, “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.”
Adds Fatima Sana Shaikh, “I’m very happy to join the SamBahadur 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.”
Adds Ronnie Screwvala, “It’s a very special day for us as the SamBahadur 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 remains 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.”
Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, and Fatima Sana Shaikh star in the film, which is produced by Ronnie Screwvala and directed by Meghna Gulzar.
