Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran

In 1995, the Soviet Union collapsed, leaving India without strong allies on the global stage. This geopolitical shift increased India's vulnerability, especially as neighboring Pakistan began solidifying its ties with the United States and China.

As tensions increased, China conducted its 43rd nuclear test in 1995. Capt. Ashwat Rana recognized the threat this posed to India and began devising a plan to conduct nuclear tests to strengthen India's defense capabilities.

Despite creating a careful strategy, Ashwat's plans to conduct nuclear tests in 1995 were thwarted when his superior disregarded his warnings about potential leaks. US satellites identified the preparations, leading to the tests' cancellation and Ashwat's disgrace.

Following the failed nuclear test preparations, Ashwat was scapegoated and subsequently dismissed from his position. He settled in Mussoorie with his family, grappling with the burden of his professional failures and its impact on family life.

In 1998, a significant political change occurred with the rise of the Vajpayee government. This shift brought key figures to power, including Himanshu Shukla, who sought to rectify past failures and strategize new nuclear tests.

Himanshu Shukla, recognizing the need for Ashwat's expertise, reached out to him to assemble a new team. Ashwat successfully recruited experts from various agencies, including the Indian Space Agency and BARC, to begin the preparations for nuclear tests.

The team gathered at Pokhran Fort, where Ashwat outlined their ambitious goal: to conduct six nuclear bomb tests in thirty days. Major Prem Singh played a crucial role in using existing infrastructure to optimize their operations within schedule.

As preparations progressed, the Vajpayee government faced pressure from coalition allies, jeopardizing their nuclear strategy. In a race against time, Ashwat had to convince Himanshu to proceed with the tests before a potential no-confidence motion could derail their plans.

While working on the tests, Ashwat and his team were shadowed by a Pakistani spy and a CIA operative. Their espionage efforts added pressure to the team, complicating the already challenging operational environment.

During this critical time, Ashwat faced personal challenges as his wife Sushma confronted him about his familial neglect. This emotional turmoil was compounded by the risk of their communications being intercepted during the nuclear preparations.

To safeguard their preparations from US surveillance, Ashwat devised a clever ruse suggesting an imminent attack on Pakistan. This deception was crucial in diverting attention away from their actual nuclear test operations.

Finally, on May 11, 1998, Ashwat and his team successfully conducted the nuclear tests, marking India's entry into the nuclear club. This monumental achievement occurred at 3:45 PM amidst numerous challenges, showcasing both political strategy and determination.

The successful tests had profound implications for India's status globally, altering the balance of power in South Asia. The events explored in the film highlight not just a monumental historical milestone but also the intricate personal sacrifices behind national decisions.