Martyrdom tale to come alive on silver screen

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, February 22

A Punjabi film, ‘Saka – The Martyrs of Nankana Sahib’, made on a Sikh historical incident is all set to release on April 8.

The film director said after the making the suggested cut, the film has been passed by the SGPC.

Director of the film Jagmeet Singh Samundri said, “On February 20, 1921 some people gave their lives to save the sanctity of Nankana Sahib Gurudwara that was being ruined by the Mahants and British rulers, who were controlling the gurudwara. The film is based on the tale of martyrdom.”

He said he made proper research before initiating the shooting and erected a set of Nankana Sahib Gurudwara that depicts the structure of gurudwara in 1921. The set was made in a village near Phagwara. “We spent around Rs 50 lakh on the set only. In spite of heavy rains during the shoot, the set stood strong and we continued the job. It was nothing less than a miracle,” he said.

Co-producer of the film Harvinderjeet Singh Sandhar said, “We faced many challenges while making the film. Even the script took two years as a lot of research work had to be done. We haven’t compromised on anything and given our full dedication to this project. We promise to give something important to the Punjabi cinema.”

A foreign actor, Stass Klassen, has also worked in the film. There are many international films to his credit. He will be seen playing the British governor of Lahore.

Actor Mahabir Bhullar, who is playing a negative character in the film, said: “This story from the history is very important for everyone to know. Especially, the youth of today will get an idea how their ancestors had a diehard attitude towards their tradition and faith.”