Akshay Kumar and Aanand L Rai are joining hands once again for the biopic Gorkha, based on the life of Major General Ian Cardozo, an officer in the Gorkha regiment of the Indian Army (5th Gorkha Rifles). The upcoming film will be directed by National award-winner Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan.
Gen Cardozo, who became the first war-disabled officer of the Indian army to command a battalion and a brigade, fought in the wars of 1962, 1965 and 1971, where he was grievously injured and had to have a leg amputated.
Akshay Kumar, who has collaborated with Rai on the director’s films Atrangi Re and Rakshabandhan (2022), will co-produce the film with his own banner, Cape of Good Films.
Rai said, “We are honoured to bring the story of a legendary war hero, Major General Ian Cardozo, whose name goes down in history for his immense courage in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. I am also excited to work with Akshay sir again for the third time.”
Himanshu Sharma, Rai’s long-time collaborator and writer, is also a producer on this project. He said, “We hope to honour Major General Ian Cardozo in this film which will inspire many. Looking forward to this really special journey.”
Gen Cardozo also shared his sentiments in a statement. He said, “I feel honoured for this story to be told on the 50th anniversary of the 1971 war. It commemorates the courage and sacrifice of the armed forces of India. I look forward to working with Anand and Akshay as they bring this to life. This story reflects the values and spirit of every officer of the Indian army.”
Chauhan has previously directed the films Lahore (2010) and 72 Hoorain (2020). He won the National award for Best Debut Film and Best Direction for them, respectively.