Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl

In Lucknow, 1984, a young Gunjan Saxena travels on a flight with her older brother Anshuman. She longs to look out the window but is kept from peeking; a kind air hostess guides her to the cockpit. The moment she sees the cockpit controls ignites a lifelong dream to become a pilot.

Years later Gunjan shines academically, but her parents debate whether she should continue schooling. Gunjan wants to drop out to pursue flying, while Anshuman argues that women belong in the kitchen. Their father advocates gender equality and supports her to explore the dream.

A newspaper advertisement offers entry into the Indian Air Force, giving Gunjan a legitimate chance to pursue piloting. Anshuman condemns the idea again, but Gunjan remains determined to try. This ad becomes the turning point toward her aviation path.

During the selection, Gunjan discovers she is the only female accepted into the Air Force. She faces disbelief and support, but she resolves to prove herself. This milestone kicks off her formal training with the all-male cohort.

In medical exams, Gunjan falls a centimeter short in height and seven kilograms in weight, nearly disqualifying her. She is devastated but offered a retest window two weeks away. Her father urges perseverance, and they plan workouts to meet the criteria.

Two weeks later Gunjan attempts the retest, but height remains the obstacle. Officers ultimately decide that her limb proportions may compensate, allowing her to join despite the initial shortfall. Anup and Kirti celebrate this hard-won entry into the force.

Gunjan starts pilot training amid a male-dominated environment and numerous challenges. She faces harsh routines and skepticism from peers, prompting moments of doubt about quitting. A spark of resilience grows as she continues the arduous program.

While Anshuman remains skeptical about a woman piloting the cockpit, Gunjan advances with the training. Her family’s mixed support mirrors the broader gender biases she must overcome. She uses the doubt as motivation to demonstrate her capability.

In 1999, the Kargil conflict erupts and the Air Force is urgently in need of skilled pilots. Gunjan’s ambition is reignited by the wartime call to serve. She resolves to join the front-line effort despite personal misgivings.

Gunjan is ordered to abort a mission because it is deemed too risky for her abilities. The instruction tests her resolve and highlights the gendered limits she faces. She remains determined, choosing not to abandon the mission entirely.

Following the aborted mission, word arrives of severely wounded soldiers requiring extraction. Gunjan seizes the opportunity to contribute, despite the earlier setback. This moment marks her turning point from reluctant trainee to active participant in the war.

Gunjan and a fellow pilot head out in separate helicopters to aid the injured. When the other helicopter is shot down by an RPG, she risks her own safety to rescue the other pilot and the wounded soldiers. Her skill and bravery shine as she completes a dangerous maneuver while bullets fly.

After the mission, Gunjan earns the respect of her male comrades and is recognized for bravery. The successful rescue demonstrates her capability and dedication under fire. Her courage earns her new status within the unit.

Back home, Gunjan’s bravery makes her family proud, especially her parents who supported her dream. Anup and Kirti celebrate her achievement, and Anshuman’s earlier reservations are softened by her success. The family’s pride mirrors the broader national recognition.

Gunjan Saxena’s journey from a curious child to a combat pilot showcases resilience and gender equality. The mission in Kargil becomes a defining moment that inspires future generations of women in the Air Force. The story closes on a note of recognition and achievement against the odds.