Siddharth on Playing Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja in Netflix’s Operation Safed Sagar
Actor Siddharth has shared insights into his experience portraying real-life martyr Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja in the Netflix series Operation Safed Sagar. The actor discussed his initial reservations, the six years of research behind the project, and the personal support he received from the late officer’s wife, Alka Ahuja.
What Happened
Speaking about taking on the role, Siddharth revealed that he was initially hesitant because he generally avoids portraying real-life figures due to concerns over commercialisation. However, he noted that the six years of groundwork, the official backing from the Indian Air Force, and personal accounts from pilots and their families convinced him to join the cast.
Siddharth remarked that playing Ahuja felt destined, marking his first portrayal of a real-life martyr since playing Shaheed Bhagat Singh in Rang De Basanti two decades earlier. To prepare for the role, the actor studied military research detailing Ahuja’s service, including his time leading the Golden Arrows and Squadron 17.
A pivotal part of his preparation involved communicating with Alka Ahuja. When Siddharth reached out to inquire about personal artefacts or recordings, she informed him that she had no audio or video files, noting that whatever the team created would serve as her memories going forward. She also provided Siddharth with her late husband’s original flying badges, known as Wings, to wear during production.
Key Highlights
- Siddharth portrays Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja in the Netflix web series Operation Safed Sagar.
- The production involved six years of research alongside input and blessings from the Indian Air Force and pilots’ families.
- Alka Ahuja gave her blessing and provided her late husband’s flying Wings for Siddharth to wear on screen.
- The series is directed by Oni Sen, created by Abhijeet Singh Parmar and Kushal Srivastava, and features an ensemble cast including Jimmy Shergill, Dia Mirza, and Adil Hussain.
Why This Matters
The portrayal highlights the collaborative approach between filmmakers, the armed forces, and surviving families when dramatising military history. The access to authentic military background and personal artefacts such as flying Wings provided historical context and personal authenticity to the production.
What to Watch Next
Operation Safed Sagar is currently available for streaming, having premiered on Netflix on August 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who directed and created Operation Safed Sagar?
The series was directed by Oni Sen and created by Abhijeet Singh Parmar and Kushal Srivastava.
Who else stars in the series alongside Siddharth?
The cast includes Jimmy Shergill, Abhay Verma, Dia Mirza, Prajakta Koli, Adil Hussain, Mihir Ahuja, Taaruk Raina, Arnav Bhasin, and Amrita Bagchi.
What personal artefact did Alka Ahuja provide for the production?
Alka Ahuja sent her late husband’s flying patches, known as Wings, for Siddharth to wear while filming the show.
Source: Statements shared by Siddharth and reporting from Bollywood Hungama.