In the world of cinema and literature, the legendary Sam Manekshaw has been a subject of fascination and admiration, with various artistic endeavors capturing facets of his remarkable life. The latest addition to this portrayal is Meghna Gulzar’s film, “Sam Bahadur,” where the talented Vicky Kaushal steps into the shoes of the iconic military figure. The movie, released in theaters on December 1, 2023, unfolds the untold chapters of Sam Manekshaw’s life, bringing his story to the big screen.
However, Meghna Gulzar’s rendition is not the solitary tribute to the Field Marshal. Prior to “Sam Bahadur,” Sam Manekshaw’s persona found its way into the cinematic realm through Kamal Sadanah’s 2023 film, “Pippa,” where actor Ishaan Khatter took on the role. Directed by Raja Krishna Menon, this cinematic exploration of Manekshaw’s life premiered on Amazon Prime Video on November 10, 2023, offering viewers a unique perspective on the military luminary.
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Beyond the silver screen, the literary world has also paid homage to Sam Manekshaw. Salman Rushdie, the acclaimed author, weaved Manekshaw’s narrative into the tapestry of his novel “Midnight’s Children.” In Book 3, within the chapter titled “Sam and the Tiger,” Rushdie artfully incorporates the essence of Manekshaw’s character into the broader narrative of his literary masterpiece.
Adding a melodic note to the tribute, the Indian Army itself dedicated a quick march to Sam Manekshaw. Composed by L.B. Gurung, the musical ode titled “Sam Bahadur” was released under The Gramophone Company of India record label on January 1, 1972. The composition found its place as the fourth track on the “Martial Music Of The Indian Army Vol. 1” album, resonating with the spirit and valor of the man it honored.
Furthermore, the television medium joined this artistic celebration of Sam Manekshaw’s life through Aaj Tak’s show, “Vande Mataram.” The program dedicated an episode to the recounting of Manekshaw’s journey, shedding light on the man behind the military legend.
As these varied artistic expressions converge to illuminate the life of Sam Manekshaw, audiences are provided with a multi-faceted and comprehensive portrayal of the indomitable spirit that defined this distinguished military leader.