Exploring the Intricacies of Espionage in 'Saare Jahan Se Accha'

Review of 'Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians'

Netflix has recently released 'Saare Jahan Se Accha: The Silent Guardians', featuring a talented cast including Pratik Gandhi, Kritika Kamra, Rajat Kapoor, Tillotama Shome, Suhail Nayyar, Sunny Hinduja, and Anup Soni.

Director: Sumit Purohit

Rating: Three stars

In light of recent statements from Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir regarding the potential use of nuclear weapons against India, the ongoing nuclear threat has resurfaced as a pressing concern.

This brings us to ponder whether we could have hindered Pakistan's nuclear ambitions. Recent releases on OTT platforms suggest that we might have delayed this development. Following the series 'Salakaar', Netflix has introduced another show, 'Saare Jahan Se Accha...', which also tackles the theme of thwarting Pakistan's nuclear plans. With two series exploring similar narratives in quick succession, viewers may experience a sense of fatigue. However, 'Saare Jahan Se Accha...' presents its story, blending fiction with factual elements, in a more compelling manner. Set in the 1970s, the series depicts a time when Zulfikar Ali Bhutto led Pakistan, famously declaring, 'We will eat grass but will have our bomb.'

Creators Gaurav Shukla and director Sumit Purohit effectively contextualize the narrative, illustrating the necessity for the Indian intelligence agency to disrupt Pakistan's nuclear pursuits. The series references significant events like the Shimla Agreement and the establishment of R&AW in 1968, providing viewers with credible information. Notably, the portrayal of Pakistan's ISI is far from incompetent; the agents, particularly their leader Murtaza (played by Sunny Hinduja), are depicted as intelligent and resourceful, often staying a step ahead of their Indian counterparts. Even R&AW's founder, RN Kao (portrayed by Rajat Kapoor), acknowledges that the ISI, formed in 1948, had a considerable head start.

As expected from a series titled 'Saare Jahan Se...', the outcome is predictable. However, the journey to that conclusion is portrayed as a balanced contest. Both Pratik Gandhi, as the skilled Indian spy Vishnu, and Sunny Hinduja, as Murtaza, deliver strong performances that resonate with their respective roles. Early in the series, Vishnu remarks on the stark contrast between a spy's life and the glamorous portrayal often seen in films like James Bond, yet he still enjoys a drink when the occasion calls for it. The ensemble cast maintains a good balance, with Tillotama Shome effectively portraying Vishnu's frustrated wife, despite having limited screen time.

The writers and creators successfully build tension and incorporate emotional moments. The dual life of a spy brings its own challenges, as demonstrated by Suhail Nayyar’s character, Rafiq urf Sukhbir, who poignantly illustrates the moral dilemmas faced by spies. While they must carry out their missions, they also grapple with the weight of their actions. The series highlights that not all of R&AW's operations align with ethical standards, with lines such as 'hum jaise bandon ke mulk nahi hote, sirf agencian hoti hain' adding depth to the narrative.

However, the espionage drama is not without its flaws. There are several plot holes, such as why Murtaza does not interrogate a Pakistani traitor (Anup Soni) more rigorously, and the inclusion of a 'same-sex' blackmail subplot feels unnecessary. Kritika Kamra’s character, Fatima, an honest Pakistani journalist entangled in the espionage web, also stretches credibility. Nevertheless, the series excels in portraying covert operations as collaborative efforts rather than solo missions, extending its narrative to international players like Mossad. Amidst the high-stakes tension, it successfully conveys the relentless spirit of unsung heroes.

While the storyline is largely fictional, it resonates with real challenges faced by agents, emphasizing that while battles may cease at the borders, for spies like Vishnu, 'it never ends.' Given the engaging premise, a continuation of this franchise seems likely, and viewers are likely to welcome it.