The Story of Brigadier Balram Singh Mehta on Whom Ishaan Khatter’s New Movie “Pippa” is Based On

Ishaan Khatter’s new movie “Pippa” is all set to make a theatrical release this year. Although the teaser was released last year, in 2022 August, the film is yet to release. The official date has not yet been announced as the makers say this is for the big screen and they aren’t planning on an OTT release of the movie.

In the teaser, we can see that the movie is set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Ishaan Khatter would be playing the titular role of Brigadier Balaram Singh Mehta. The teaser gives a glimpse of the Indian Army’s role in the freedom of Bangladesh. And as specified by the makers, the movie is inspired by real events in the 1971 war.

Despite so many months, the movie still generates buzz online due to its apparent plotline. 

So What is “Pippa”? And Why is the Film Named this? Is it Based on Real Events?

To answer these, we need to delve deeper into the history of the 1971 India-Pakistan War.

The 1971 war was one of the deadliest wars that the Indian Army fought under the Prime Ministership of Indira Gandhi. The war was one of its kind as a nation (India) was helping another nation (Bangladesh formerly East Pakistan) gain independence.

Image Credits: Wikipedia

What is “Pippa”?

The name “Pippa” is the nickname given to the Russian PT-76 amphibious war tanks that were used by the Indian Army. Pippa is a Punjabi word that means an empty ghee can that can float and that is exactly how this Russian Tank would float on water; something never seen by Indian Army before.  The tank was used by the 45th Cavalry Tank Squadron headed by Captain (later Brigadier) Balram Singh Mehta. 

Who is Brigadier Balaram Singh Mehta?

The movie is based on the book written by this brave heart, ie, Captain Mehta, called The Burning Chaffees, which is a war memoir. Khatter will be seen playing the titular role of Captain Mehta and how he led the “Pippa” on the eastern front of India which ultimately led to India defeating Pakistan in 1971.

Bringing to you the untold story of #BrigadierBalramSinghMehta… a story of India’s pride, valour and triumph over Pakistan in 1971. #Pippa starring #IshaanKhatter, produced by @RonnieScrewvala & #SiddharthRoyKapur and directed by @RajaMenon will be in cinemas late next year. pic.twitter.com/FjmwmON5Wr

— RSVP (@RSVPMovies) August 14, 2020

Pippa – The movie

As the teaser says, this movie is inspired by real events that took place in the 1971 Indo-Pak war that ultimately led to the creation of Bangladesh. Ishaan Khatter’s new movie “Pippa” is based on the book The Burning Chaffees wherein Captain Mehta talks about how he led the eastern front along with his siblings.

The film also stars Mrunal Pandey, Soni Razdan, and Piyush Painyuli in important roles. Though the film does not have a big star cast, the story, the screenplay seen in the teaser, and the performances are what is attracting people. 

Watch the Teaser Here: