Mumbai, January 22 – In the vast landscape of Hindi cinema, certain films transcend mere entertainment, serving as poignant reminders of history’s forgotten chapters. ‘Airlift’, starring Akshay Kumar and Nimrat Kaur, marks its 10th anniversary today, reigniting conversations about one of India’s most extraordinary humanitarian operations.
On this milestone, Nimrat Kaur took to social media, sharing nostalgic set photos and reflecting on the film’s enduring magic. ‘Ten years ago today, this celluloid magic unfolded. The music, memorable moments, and love have only grown with time,’ she captioned, evoking the era the movie so vividly captured.
Released in 2016, ‘Airlift’ draws from the real-life 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait under Saddam Hussein. Over 170,000 Indians stranded in the war-torn nation faced unimaginable peril as chaos erupted. With lives hanging in the balance, the Indian government, Air India, and the armed forces orchestrated the world’s largest civilian evacuation in history – a 59-day saga now immortalized in the Guinness Book of World Records.
The narrative centers on Ranjit Katyal, a wealthy Kuwait-based businessman of Indian origin, portrayed masterfully by Akshay Kumar. Living a life of luxury with his wife Amrita and young daughter, Ranjit’s world shatters amid the invasion. Initially detached from the plight of fellow Indians, a personal tragedy – the death of his driver – awakens his sense of duty.
What follows is a gripping tale of transformation. Ranjit rallies communities, negotiates with authorities, and coordinates relentless flights out of danger zones. The film masterfully blends high-stakes drama with emotional depth, showcasing raw human resilience against geopolitical turmoil.
Director Raja Krishna Menon crafts a thriller that doesn’t just recount events but immerses viewers in the fear, urgency, and triumph. Akshay’s nuanced performance captures the shift from apathy to heroism, while Nimrat Kaur’s Amrita embodies quiet strength amid crisis.
A decade on, ‘Airlift’ remains a testament to national pride and unsung heroes. It challenges viewers to remember: in humanity’s darkest hours, collective action can achieve the impossible. As Kaur’s post reminds us, some stories never fade – they inspire across generations.