Veteran of Longewala Battle Claims ‘Border’ Movie Misrepresents History, Accuses Sunny Deol of Profiting

Nearly three decades after the release of the iconic war film Border, controversy has resurfaced over its depiction of the Battle of Longewala. Havildar Mukhtiar Singh, a veteran who fought in the battle, has expressed strong dissatisfaction, claiming that the movie distorted historical facts and that actors, including Sunny Deol, are profiting off the heroism of real soldiers.

The 81-year-old Havildar, now living in Kurali, Mohali, revealed that only 120 Indian soldiers were present on the frontline during the battle on December 4-5, 1971. “In the film, all soldiers are shown as martyrs, but in reality, there were only three casualties. The rest of us survived and fought bravely,” he said.

Seeking Recognition for Real Heroes

Havildar Singh has reportedly written to the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and the Chief Minister of Rajasthan over the past two years. “We are the real heroes of that battlefield, yet nobody acknowledges us. I just want Sunny Deol to meet the surviving soldiers or at least recognize our contribution,” he stated. Singh emphasized that no medals or official recognition were given to many of the soldiers, despite their bravery.

Eyewitness Account of the Battle

Recounting the events, Mukhtiar Singh said he was 26 at the time, serving as an army clerk. He recalled spotting advancing Pakistani tanks and alerting his commanding officer. “Pakistan had 45 tanks crossing the border, providing covering fire for their infantry. The night was clear, everything was visible. Our first shell hit around 1:30 a.m., and only three of our men were casualties,” he explained.

Singh expressed frustration that the film Border exaggerated casualties and overlooked the true role of the surviving soldiers. “Sunny Deol is earning money in our names. The media and public should know that 23 brave soldiers from Punjab fought valiantly that night,” he said.

Why Speak Out Now

Mukhtiar Singh explained that he initially did not pay attention to the film’s narrative. However, after meeting media personnel and connecting with fellow veterans, he decided to formally raise the issue with the army and public authorities. “It’s been decades, and very few of us are left alive—maybe 10 to 20. We fought for the country; we didn’t fight for recognition or money, but the facts should be set straight,” he said.

As the controversy unfolds, the statements by Mukhtiar Singh shed light on the sacrifices of real-life soldiers, urging filmmakers and the public to acknowledge the true heroes behind cinematic portrayals.