It’s been a full decade since ‘Airlift’ soared into theaters, captivating audiences with its harrowing depiction of India’s greatest evacuation effort. Starring Bollywood powerhouse Akshay Kumar alongside Nimrat Kaur, the film commemorates the 1990 Kuwait crisis that stranded 170,000 Indians in the crossfire of Saddam Hussein’s invasion.
Nimrat Kaur marked the occasion with heartfelt social media shares, posting vintage behind-the-scenes images. Her caption celebrated the timeless allure of the film’s soundtrack and the bonds forged on set, drawing fresh attention to this historical powerhouse.
Flashback to August 1990: Iraq’s sudden assault on Kuwait plunged the oil-rich nation into war. Indian expatriates, many in modest jobs, found themselves trapped without escape routes. Food shortages, bombings, and Iraqi patrols turned daily life into a nightmare.
Enter the monumental response: a coalition of Air India pilots, ground crew, and diplomats executed over 488 flights, airlifting civilians to safety in Mumbai and beyond. Spanning 59 grueling days, this operation saved countless lives and earned a Guinness record as the largest civilian rescue ever.
At the story’s heart is Ranjit Katyal (Akshay Kumar), a non-resident Indian thriving in Kuwait’s elite circles. Married to Amrita (Nimrat Kaur) with a young child, his insulated existence crumbles when violence hits home. The brutal killing of his loyal driver becomes the catalyst, propelling him into action.
Ranjit evolves from self-absorbed tycoon to relentless advocate, navigating Iraqi checkpoints, bribing officials, and herding terrified families onto planes. The film’s pacing builds relentless tension, interweaving personal loss with broader heroism.
Critics praised its authenticity, drawing from survivor accounts and declassified documents. Akshay’s portrayal earned acclaim for its emotional range, balancing vulnerability with steely resolve. Nimrat’s supportive role added layers of familial tension and loyalty.
Today, as ‘Airlift’ hits the 10-year mark, it stands as more than cinema – it’s a rallying cry for patriotism and preparedness. In an era of global uncertainties, the film’s message resonates: unity turns ordinary people into legends.
