Tejas Movie: A Complete Guide
Everything You Need to Know About Kangana Ranaut's Patriotic Film
Movie Review & AnalysisTejas Movie Poster
Introduction
Released in 2023, Tejas is an Indian Hindi-language action drama film that captured attention for its patriotic theme and focus on a female Indian Air Force pilot. Directed by Sarvesh Mewara and produced by Ronnie Screwvala, the film stars Kangana Ranaut in the lead role as Tejas Gill, an IAF pilot on a daring mission.
The film generated significant buzz for its portrayal of women in combat roles and its celebration of Indian military prowess. While it received mixed reviews from critics, it sparked important conversations about gender representation in Indian cinema and the armed forces.
Is Tejas Based on a Real Story?
Important Note: Tejas is not based on one specific real-life incident but is inspired by the achievements of real female fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force.
The film draws inspiration from the pioneering women who broke barriers in the Indian Air Force, particularly the first female fighter pilots like Avani Chaturvedi, Bhavana Kanth, and Mohana Singh, who were commissioned in 2016.
While the specific mission depicted in the film is fictional, the challenges, training, and dedication shown by Tejas Gill reflect the real experiences of women in the IAF. The film serves as a tribute to their courage and determination in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Which OTT Platform is Tejas On?
Tejas is available for streaming on ZEE5. The film was released on the platform on January 5, 2024, approximately two months after its theatrical release on October 27, 2023.
Streaming Tip: You can watch Tejas on ZEE5 with a subscription. The platform often offers free trials for new users, so you might be able to watch it without immediate payment.
The digital release followed the typical window for Indian films, which is usually 4-8 weeks after theatrical release. The availability on OTT allows viewers who missed the theatrical experience to watch the film from the comfort of their homes.
Complete Movie Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Film Name | Tejas |
| Release Year | 2023 |
| Director | Sarvesh Mewara |
| Producer | Ronnie Screwvala |
| Lead Cast | Kangana Ranaut, Anshul Chobey, Varun Mitra |
| Genre | Action, Drama, Patriotic |
| Theatrical Release | October 27, 2023 |
| OTT Platform | ZEE5 (from January 5, 2024) |
| Budget | Approximately ₹70 crore |
| Box Office Collection | Approximately ₹5.6 crore (commercially unsuccessful) |
Plot Summary
The film follows the story of Tejas Gill (Kangana Ranaut), a skilled Indian Air Force pilot who is assigned a critical mission to rescue an Indian spy captured in Pakistan. The mission is not only physically demanding but also emotionally challenging for Tejas, who carries personal trauma from past events.
As the narrative unfolds, we learn about Tejas's background and the incidents that shaped her determination. The film explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, gender equality, and the psychological toll of military service.
Viewer Note: While the film is action-packed, it also delves into emotional and psychological aspects of military life, offering a balanced viewing experience.
Cast and Characters
Kangana Ranaut
as Tejas Gill
Indian Air Force Pilot
Varun Mitra
as Ekveer
Tejas's love interest
Anshul Chobey
as Air Force Officer
Tejas's colleague
Critical Reception and Box Office Performance
Tejas received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While Kangana Ranaut's performance was generally praised, the film's screenplay and execution faced criticism.
The film was a commercial disappointment, earning only approximately ₹5.6 crore against a production budget of ₹70 crore. Several factors contributed to its poor box office performance, including:
- Competition from other major releases
- Mixed word-of-mouth
- Criticisms of the screenplay
- Political controversies surrounding the lead actress
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tejas available for free download?
No, Tejas is not legally available for free download. The film can be streamed on ZEE5 with a subscription. Downloading movies from unauthorized sources is illegal and supports piracy, which harms the film industry.
How accurate is the portrayal of IAF procedures in the film?
While the film consulted with IAF officials for technical accuracy, some creative liberties were taken for dramatic effect. The basic protocols and training sequences are generally authentic, but specific mission details are fictionalized.
What is the significance of the title "Tejas"?
The title "Tejas" has multiple meanings. Literally, it means "sharpness" or "brilliance" in Sanskrit. It's also the name of India's indigenous light combat aircraft, making it a fitting title for a film about an IAF pilot.
Are there any real female fighter pilots like Tejas?
Yes, India has several female fighter pilots. The first three were Avani Chaturvedi, Bhavana Kanth, and Mohana Singh, who were commissioned in 2016. Since then, more women have joined the fighter stream of the IAF.
Where to Watch Tejas Legally
To support the filmmakers and avoid piracy, here are the legal options to watch Tejas:
- ZEE5: Available with a subscription
- Rental/Purchase: May be available on platforms like Google Play Movies, YouTube Movies, or Apple TV
- Television: Might air on movie channels like Zee Cinema, &flix, or Sony MAX
Important Message: Piracy is a serious crime that negatively impacts the film industry. By choosing legal viewing options, you support the hard work of everyone involved in creating the film and ensure that more diverse stories can be told in the future.
Final Verdict
Tejas is an ambitious film that attempts to celebrate the achievements of women in the Indian Armed Forces. While it may not have achieved commercial success or universal critical acclaim, it represents an important step in portraying strong female characters in mainstream Indian cinema.
The film is worth watching for:
- Kangana Ranaut's compelling performance
- Aerial action sequences
- The important theme of gender equality in the military
- Patriotic elements that celebrate Indian defense capabilities
However, viewers should approach it as a fictional narrative inspired by real achievements rather than a biographical account of specific individuals or events.