Archive · 2 Sep 2026
Sachin Tendulkar Praises Operation Safed Sagar Despite Simplifications
Sachin Tendulkar watched a TV series about the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War.
He said the show made him appreciate military personnel even more.
The series tells the story of the Golden Arrows squadron.
The squadron took part in India’s efforts during the 1999 war.
Former Air Chief Marshal B. S. Dhanoa was involved in those events.
Jimmy Shergill plays Dhanoa in the series.
Dhanoa said the show changes or simplifies some details so ordinary viewers can understand it.
He also said the main meaning of the story has not been changed.
Sachin Tendulkar praised Operation Safed Sagar after watching its depiction of the Indian Air Force’s role in the 1999 Kargil War.
Tendulkar said the series deepened his appreciation for former Air Chief Marshal B. S. Dhanoa and other military personnel.
Dhanoa, portrayed by Jimmy Shergill, said the series simplified some details for general audiences but preserved the story’s essence.
The series focuses particularly on the Indian Air Force’s Golden Arrows squadron and its contribution to the Kargil War.
Directed by Oni Sen, the Netflix India production features Siddharth, Dia Mirza, Prajakta Koli and several other actors.
- Who
- Sachin Tendulkar praised Operation Safed Sagar; former Air Chief Marshal B. S. Dhanoa discussed its creative changes.
- What
- The series portrays the Indian Air Force’s contribution to the 1999 Kargil War, while Tendulkar and Dhanoa commented on its impact and accuracy.
- When
- Tendulkar shared his comments on Tuesday evening; the events depicted occurred during the 1999 Kargil War.
- Where
- The series is available on Netflix India, and Tendulkar recalled meeting Dhanoa at an Indian Air Force Auditorium screening in New Delhi.
- Why
- Dhanoa said some details were simplified or altered to make the story understandable and engaging for general viewers.
Audience Accessibility
Historical Precision
Simplifying military details
Audience Accessibility
B. S. Dhanoa said the creators simplified some details and made certain events different so common viewers could understand and enjoy the series.
Historical Precision
Dhanoa acknowledged that military personnel might notice that some actions were not depicted exactly as they occur in reality.
Overall faithfulness
Audience Accessibility
The series uses creative liberties to present a human-interest and historical story that can connect with viewers beyond soldiers and military families.
Historical Precision
Dhanoa said the series is not a documentary, but maintained that its central essence has not been changed.
- Series
- Operation Safed Sagar
- Platform
- Netflix India
- Director
- Oni Sen
- Historical setting
- The 1999 Kargil War
- Featured unit
- The Indian Air Force’s Golden Arrows squadron
- Tendulkar’s IAF rank
- Honorary Group Captain, bestowed in 2010
- Dhanoa’s portrayal
- Played by Jimmy Shergill