Netflix’s Operation Safed Sagar takes viewers back to the Kargil War of 1999, focusing specifically on the role of the Indian Air Force, and this six-episode series is definitely worth the watch.
From the beginning, the series does a good job of quickly establishing what is happening and giving viewers enough history to understand the story without dwelling on the background for too long. Instead, it puts you right into the action.
Admittedly, I initially found myself getting a little confused trying to keep up with all of the different characters. But about halfway through the first episode, the series begins doing a much better job of introducing each person and connecting viewers to their individual stories. By the end of episode two, I was fully hooked.
So, if you start watching and aren’t completely sold after the first episode, my advice is to give it until the end of episode two before deciding whether to continue. I’m telling you, it’s worth it.
A War Story That Focuses on the People
The visuals throughout Operation Safed Sagar are incredible. From the fighter jets to the effects, everything is really nicely done. But what stood out to me most was how real the series felt.
This is definitely a difficult watch at times considering the true events behind the story. However, the series isn't solely focused on the war or its military tactics. It focuses heavily on the people fighting it, allowing you to become invested in the characters and their personal stories.
That authenticity also seems to come from the attention to detail behind the scenes. Families were consulted while creating the series to help incorporate their real stories. Around 50 to 60 Indian Air Force and Golden Arrow Squadron veterans were also consulted, including a former Air Chief Marshal, while two former Air Force officers were on set during filming to oversee details.
For me, that attention to detail is a huge part of what makes the series feel so grand, especially when paired with heartfelt stories that you know are partially true.
Of course, this is still a television series, so keep in mind that parts of the story are going to be dramatized.
A Strong Cast and Impressive Production
The acting is really good across the board. The series features Siddharth, Jimmy Shergill, Dia Mirza, Prajakta Koli and many others, and the cast does a fantastic job.
The sets, costumes and visuals are also really nicely done.
Another element I loved was the use of real news footage from the time of the Kargil War. The series incorporates news coverage from around the world into the story, which makes what you're watching feel even more impactful.
And here’s another big plus: it does not end on a cliffhanger!
The story actually ends, making Operation Safed Sagar a great miniseries for anyone looking for something they can watch, binge and be done with after six episodes.
Ultimately, this is a series about the 1999 Kargil War and the Indian Air Force, so whether it’s for you will depend on whether that’s a genre you typically enjoy. But if it is, I 100% recommend giving Operation Safed Sagar a watch.
Operation Safed Sagar is now streaming on Netflix.
