Royal Salute, written and directed by Jai Shiva Se, produced by Siva Ganesh, with music by Jai Kishan, features Pradeep in the lead role, supported by Archana Singh, Yuva Yuvaraj, Subash Simbu, Inba, and Janani. The film presents a sensitive theme, an imaginary narrative. However, it also reminds viewers of real-life events, particularly the Pahalgam attack in April 2025, where 26 people tragically lost their lives. While the harsh realities of cross-border tensions, including the lack of sympathy from the Pakistani army, the story highlights moments of human emotion that rise above enmity and conflict.
The story begins with India and Pakistan engaged in battle. Major Balveer Singh (an Indian army officer) is badly injured, and his junior soldier, Sakthivel (played by Pradeep) carries him on his shoulder through a long and exhausting journey. At one point, Sakthivel feels too tired and considers leaving his superior behind, but the voice of his wife Meenakshi, guides him to return. This emotional pull reflects the values of loyalty and courage expected from a soldier. However, the Major eventually dies on the spot, leaving Sakthivel devastated. This sets the emotional tone for the rest of the film.
The interval block delivers a strong twist. Alone in the forest, Sakthivel accidentally steps on a landmine, and it is a Pakistani soldier named Bhakrudeen who rescues him from certain death. This unexpected act of kindness creates a bond between two men who are officially enemies but share the same human emotions. From here, the story shifts from being a war drama to a study of empathy and humanity. The central conflict becomes whether Sakthivel will protect his new friend Bhakrudeen, or follow orders to kill him simply because he is Pakistani.
The film is set in dense forest locations, focusing more on personal struggle than war spectacle. The first half is rather slow, with Sakthivel mostly walking and speaking to himself, which feels stretched and may test the patience of viewers. However, the second half gains momentum with the entry of Bhakrudeen, as their bond and moral dilemmas give the story emotional depth. The director has clearly chosen to concentrate on human values rather than large-scale action sequences.
In terms of performances, Pradeep delivers a sincere act as Sakthivel. His portrayal of a conflicted soldier who struggles between duty and humanity is convincing, though the long monologues in the first half dilute the impact. Archana Singh as Meenakshi appears in limited scenes but provides the emotional voice that keeps Sakthivel grounded. Yuva Yuvaraj, Subash Simbu, Inba, and Janani provide adequate support. The standout role, however, is Bhakrudeen, who brings freshness and energy to the second half of the film. His chemistry with Pradeep becomes the heart of the story.
On the technical front, Jai Shiva Se’s direction is ambitious, but the pacing could have been tighter. The cinematography captures the forest atmosphere effectively, highlighting both isolation and tension. Jai Kishan’s music and background score are average, doing just enough to support the mood without making a lasting impression. Overall, Royal Salute is not a war spectacle but a film that attempts to highlight humanity across borders. Despite its slow narration in parts, it delivers a meaningful message about empathy in times of conflict.
PRO: Ganesh
