Archive · 21 Aug 2026
Former IAF Fighter Controller Coaches Bollywood Stars in Military Etiquette
Varlin Panwar used to work for the Indian Air Force.
Her job was to watch radar and help guide fighter pilots.
In 2018, she saw an unidentified aircraft moving toward the border.
She ordered fighter jets to intercept it, and the aircraft turned away.
After leaving the Air Force, she worked in security for cricket events.
Later, she began helping movie actors play soldiers realistically.
She teaches them how to salute, stand, wear uniforms and move in formations.
She has coached stars in films such as Fighter, Operation Valentine and Sky Force.
Panwar says this new work is another way for her to continue serving.
Squadron Leader Varlin Panwar served as an Indian Air Force fighter controller for 10 years.
In January 2018, she ordered an interception after detecting an unidentified aircraft near India’s border.
After retiring, Panwar worked in technical security for the Indian Premier League.
She now coaches actors on military etiquette, drills, salutes, uniforms and posture.
Panwar has consulted on Fighter, Operation Valentine and Sky Force.
- Who
- Squadron Leader Varlin Panwar, a former Indian Air Force fighter controller.
- What
- Panwar detected an unidentified aircraft during her service and later became a military etiquette coach for Bollywood actors.
- When
- She served for 10 years and retired in 2018; her aircraft interception occurred in January 2018.
- Where
- She served at a frontline Indian Air Force base and now works on Indian film productions.
- Why
- She coaches actors so their military conduct, uniforms and movements accurately reflect military service.
- Former rank
- Squadron Leader
- Service
- Indian Air Force fighter controller
- Length of service
- 10 years
- Retirement
- 2018
- Earlier post-service work
- Technical security for the Indian Premier League
- Film consultations
- Fighter, Operation Valentine and Sky Force
- Specialty
- Military etiquette, drills, salutes, posture and uniform use