Filmmaker Uttam Maheshwari issued a public apology on Friday for announcing the film Operation Sindoor, which he had positioned as being based on India's ongoing precision strikes on terrorist centres in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The announcement, which came amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, drew significant backlash online for appearing to exploit a sensitive and ongoing military operation for cinematic gain.
In his note, Maheshwari clarified that the film was conceived out of “deep respect” for India’s armed forces and leadership, not for publicity or profit. He explained that he was moved by the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers and wanted to honour their story. However, he acknowledged that the timing of the announcement may have caused discomfort and offered his "sincere apologies" for any hurt caused. He also took down the film's poster, which had depicted a woman soldier amid war imagery.
His statement concluded with a tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, affirming his support for their continued efforts to protect the nation.
Adding to the controversy, the film's poster had included the name Bhagnani, prompting confusion that it was connected to Puja Films, headed by Vashu and Jackky Bhagnani. In response, the Bhagnanis swiftly distanced themselves from the project, releasing a statement that they had "no association whatsoever" with Operation Sindoor and reaffirming their solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces during this critical time.
The backdrop to all of this is Operation Sindoor, India’s military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people—many of them tourists. Since then, India has carried out targeted strikes against militant infrastructure across the border, defending both civilian and military sites against drone and missile threats.
