The 2018 spy thriller “Raazi,” directed by Meghna Gulzar, captivated audiences with its compelling narrative based on a true story. Inspired by Harinder S. Sikka’s novel, “Calling Sehmat,” the film centers around Sehmat Khan, an Indian woman who marries a Pakistani army officer to fulfill her father’s patriotic mission of espionage. This blog post delves into the remarkable life and contributions of this unsung heroine.
The Life of Sehmat Khan
The story unfolds against the backdrop of the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Sehmat Khan, the daughter of a Kashmiri Muslim father and a Hindu mother, embodies unwavering patriotism. Her father, a freedom fighter battling cancer, persuades her to marry the son of a Pakistani army general friend. This seemingly ordinary marriage serves as a cover for her dangerous mission: to spy for India and provide crucial information.
Sehmat Khan With Her Mother
Sehmat’s close relationship with her mother provided a grounding force amidst the high-stakes risks of her mission. Her mother’s unwavering support served as a pillar of strength for her daughter’s courageous actions.
Sehmat Khan With Her Father
Her father’s influence and guidance were pivotal in shaping Sehmat’s life and her ultimate decision to undertake this perilous mission for her country. The bond between them was one of deep love and unwavering nationalistic sentiment.
Sehmat Khan Taking Spy Training
Before embarking on her mission, Sehmat underwent rigorous training with RAW, India’s external intelligence agency. This training equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary for survival and success in enemy territory.
Sehmat Khan As A Spy
After her marriage, Sehmat skillfully gained the trust of her in-laws and extended family. She discreetly began relaying vital intelligence to the Indian Intelligence Bureau, while maintaining a seemingly normal life.
Sehmat Khan As A Teacher
Interestingly, Sehmat also worked as a teacher, educating the grandchildren of General Yahya Khan. This provided her with unique access to information and an opportunity to observe the inner workings of Pakistan’s military elite.
| Role | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Wife | Married to a Pakistani Army Officer | Provided cover for her espionage activities. |
| Teacher | Educated General Yahya Khan’s grandchildren | Offered access to high-level information and insights. |
| Spy | Provided crucial intelligence to India. | Played a critical role in the 1971 war. |
Sehmat Khan Saves Vikrant
During the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war, Sehmat intercepted crucial intelligence regarding Pakistan’s plan to sink INS Vikrant, a vital Indian Navy aircraft carrier. Her timely intervention allowed the Indian Navy to prepare, preventing a significant military loss.
Sehmat Khan
Her bravery and resourcefulness saved the INS Vikrant from potential destruction, preventing a severe blow to the Indian Navy during a critical moment in the war. This single act underscored the impact of her dedication to her country.
How The Real Life Story Of Patriotic Sehmat Came Out
Author Harinder S. Sikka spent eight years meticulously researching and fictionalizing Sehmat’s story. He first heard about her from an Indian army officer in Kargil, who spoke of his Kashmiri Muslim mother’s remarkable journey.
Sikka travelled to Malerkotla, Punjab, to meet Sehmat’s mother and learn the full details of her extraordinary life. To protect her identity and safety, he chose the pseudonym “Sehmat Khan” for his novel.
Harinder’s Debut Novel ‘Calling Sehmat’
Sikka’s debut novel, “Calling Sehmat,” was first published in 2008 by Konark Publishers and later re-published by Penguin Random House India in 2018. He recounts that the experience profoundly impacted his understanding of true patriotism.
The Novel Converted Into A Movie Spy Thriller- Raazi
The film adaptation, “Raazi,” starring Alia Bhatt as Sehmat and Vicky Kaushal as her husband, was a massive box-office success. Meghna Gulzar’s direction brought to life the thrilling narrative and the immense sacrifices made by Sehmat Khan.
The movie’s success brought Sehmat Khan’s incredible story to a wider audience, cementing her legacy as a symbol of courage and unwavering patriotism.
