Seven years ago, ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ stormed Indian cinemas, captivating audiences with its gripping tale of valor and vengeance. Released on January 11, 2018, the film marked a turning point for Bollywood, blending high-octane action with patriotic fervor. Directed by Aditya Dhar in his debut, it chronicled the daring 2016 surgical strikes by Indian forces on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the Uri army base attack that claimed 19 lives.
At the heart of this cinematic triumph was Vicky Kaushal, whose portrayal of Major Vihaan Shergill earned him widespread acclaim and a National Film Award. Yet, in a shocking revelation during recent interviews marking the film’s anniversary, Vicky confessed he nearly turned down the role that skyrocketed his career. ‘I was on the verge of rejecting it,’ he admitted, recalling how initial hesitations clouded his judgment.
Vicky explained that back then, he was riding high after ‘Masaan,’ wary of being typecast in intense roles. The script’s intensity and the physical demands intimidated him. ‘I thought it was too big a leap,’ he shared, crediting director Aditya Dhar’s persistence and late-night script readings for changing his mind. Those pivotal sessions convinced him of the project’s potential to honor real heroes.
The film’s success was phenomenal. Made on a modest budget of Rs 40 million, it grossed over Rs 2.5 billion worldwide, proving the power of content-driven storytelling. It sparked debates on nationalism in cinema and inspired a wave of military-themed films. Vicky’s transformation—from a reluctant actor to a star embodying surgical precision—mirrors the film’s theme of calculated retaliation.
Today, as ‘Uri’ completes seven years, Vicky reflects on its enduring legacy. ‘It’s not just a film; it’s a tribute,’ he says. Fans continue to celebrate it, with social media buzzing about rewatches and its relevance amid ongoing border tensions. The movie’s blend of factual accuracy, emotional depth, and edge-of-the-seat thrills ensures its place as a modern classic.