On the morning of May 7, as the Indian Armed Forces carried out Operation Sindoor, a different mission kicked off in Mumbai’s film production circles – the race to claim Sindoor as a film title. Inside producers’ offices and association desks, phones buzzed. But the only response many got? A simple, “ Aap kataar mein hai .”

The inboxes of the Indian Film and Television Producers Council (IFTPC), the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), the Western India Film Producers Association (WIFPA), and the Producers Guild of India pinged with urgency. It hasn’t stopped really. “Suddenly, everyone wanted the same title – Sindoor ,” says a weary representative from one of the associations. “There’s been an overwhelming number of applications in the past couple of days for titles related to Operation Sindoor,” shared another official.

​Sources say, “J P Dutta’s banner JP Films has thrown its hat in the ring for Operation Sindoor. A renowned producer from the South, Dil Raju, has requested Sindoor: Ek Jung. “For a title to be accepted quickly, the trick is not to aim for what everyone else is chasing. The smartest titles are simple ones. The trick is to find something that uses the key words and still resonates,” adviced a producer.

​In this race, time is what matters. “The title will go to the one who applied first. But everyone else can either stay on the waiting list or get their money back. We receive title applications both by mail and as hard copies,” another representative explained, adding, “Now, when someone is walking in with a hard copy saying they want Mission Sindoor or Operation Sindoor, we tell them – don’t bother. There are already more than 15 applicants. You won’t get it.”

​After backlash for announcing a film based on Operation Sindoor, producer Nickky Bhagnani, brother of Pooja Entertainment’s Jackky Bhagnani, apologized in a post. He wrote, “My sincere apologies for recently announcing a film based on Operation Sindoor. Inspired by the recent heroic efforts of our Indian Armed Forces. The intent was never to hurt or provoke anyone’s sentiments. As a filmmaker, I was moved by the courage, sacrifice, and the strength of our soldiers and leadership. And simply wished to bring this powerful story to light. This project was born out of deep respect and love for our nation and not for fame and monetization. However, I understand the timing and sensitivity may have caused discomfort or pain to some. For that. I deeply regret. This is not just a film, it’s an emotion of the entire nation and a social image of the country globally. Thanks to our Armed Forces and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji who make us proud by working day and night for the country with the motto of always nation first. Our love and prayers will always be with the families of the martyrs as well as the bravo warriors who are fighting on the border day and night to give us a new morning. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”