Akshay Kumar and Veer Pahariya’s highly anticipated film Sky Force hit theatres today (24 January). However, just a day before its release, Fighter director Siddharth Anand shared a cryptic post on social media that many believe was aimed at comparisons between Sky Force and his film.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday, Anand wrote, “Hahahaha!! Insecurity hits new lows! I feel so important today! Have faith in your own self! Come on, yo!! An old saying – Blowing off another candle won’t make yours burn brighter! But alas…”
Although Anand didn’t explicitly mention any names or films, his post quickly drew attention. Many Twitter users speculated that it was a dig at Sky Force, especially since the two films share a similar backdrop, focusing on the Indian Air Force. The timing of the post also coincided with early reviews of Sky Force, with one review noting it was “not another Fighter,” potentially irking Anand.
Reactions to Anand’s comments were divided. While some criticised him for what they deemed an unnecessary attack, others expressed curiosity about the rivalry. One Twitter user commented, “There’s bound to be a comparison when two movies share the same background. If one movie gets better reviews, have a big heart and appreciate it. Why be insecure?” Another remarked, “Who will win the final battle? Fighter or Sky Force? Let’s wait for the lifetime BO.”
Anand’s Fighter, starring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor, revolves around a fictionalised rescue mission by the Indian Air Force. Despite a lukewarm critical response, the film managed to earn ₹358 crore (approximately £34.8 million) globally, making it a box office success.
About Sky Force
Unlike Fighter, Sky Force is based on a pivotal real-life event in Indian history. The film portrays India’s first and deadliest airstrike—its retaliatory attack on Pakistan’s Sargodha airbase during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965.
Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, the film stars Akshay Kumar and newcomer Veer Pahariya as Indian Air Force officers. It also features Nimrat Kaur and Sara Ali Khan in prominent roles. Described as “an untold story of honour, courage, and patriotism,” Sky Force promises to shed light on a critical chapter in India’s military history.
As both films continue to draw comparisons, audiences will ultimately decide which one resonates more at the box office. For now, Sky Force is in the spotlight, with its patriotic narrative poised to win hearts.
