The upcoming weekend episode of Indian Idol 16 will feature an emotional moment as Farhan Akhtar reflects on the real-life inspiration behind his film Lakshya . The episode is part of a special celebration marking 25 years of the filmmaker’s career, during which contestant Shreenidhi performed a moving rendition of a song from the film.
The performance set the tone for a rare personal revelation from Farhan on stage.
Farhan Akhtar reveals why he made Lakshya; shares emotional story behind the Hrithik Roshan starrerFollowing the act, judge Badshah asked Farhan whether Lakshya had been created purely for entertainment or driven by a deeper intent. The question prompted Farhan to share the thought process that shaped one of his most significant films. He said, ‘There are two aspects to this question. Patriotism is something we are all born with. When you watch your parents — the work they do, the way they love their country — it becomes a part of you. And I believe patriotism is something you don’t need to shout about. It’s a feeling with which you live your life honestly and with hard work — for your country.’
Farhan then spoke about the real events that influenced the story. ‘This film was made around the time Operation Vijay happened in 1999. My father went to Kargil in 2001. There is a memorial there for the soldiers. An officer told him, ‘People are praising the Indian Army for achieving the impossible in these mountains.’ And it’s true — very few armies in the world can do what they did.’
He added that what the officer said next became the seed of Lakshya. ‘The officer also said something sad: ‘Every year, fewer young people apply to become officers. It no longer feels like a viable career option to them.’ He shared this with my father, and my father told him, ‘I want to write a story to inspire young people to join the Indian Army.’ That’s how this story was written.’
The filmmaker further noted that the experience influenced the choices he made thereafter. ‘After that experience, whatever choices I made — whether Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, or now 120 Bahadur — I felt cinema has the power to send a message: respect your freedom. Love it. And never forget the price at which it came.’
Farhan’s candid reflection offered viewers a deeper understanding of the intention behind Lakshya, aligning with Indian Idol 16’s spirit of showcasing journeys and purpose through music and storytelling.
Indian Idol 16 airs every Saturday and Sunday at 8 PM on Sony Entertainment Television and streams on Sony LIV.