Anushka Sharma Reflects on Childhood Fears During Father’s Kargil War Service
Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma recently shared poignant memories of her childhood during the 1999 Kargil War, when her father, Colonel (retired) Ajay Kumar Sharma, was deployed on the front lines. In a resurfaced 2012 interview, Sharma, who was just 11 years old at the time, recalled the emotional toll of the conflict on her family, particularly her mother’s anxiety.
Sharma described how her mother kept the television tuned to news channels, growing visibly distressed whenever casualties were reported. “Kargil was a tough one. I was too young at that time, but I was scared of seeing my mother,” she told. Unaware of the war’s gravity, Sharma would chat with her father about school and boyfriends during his brief calls from the war zone, not realizing the dangers he faced.
The daughter of a decorated officer who served in every major conflict since 1982, including Operation Bluestar and the Kargil War, Sharma has often expressed pride in her army roots. Her reflections gained renewed attention amid recent India-Pakistan border tensions, prompting her to post a heartfelt tribute on Instagram. “Eternally grateful to our Indian Armed Forces for protecting us through these times like the heroes that they are. Heartfelt gratitude to the sacrifices they and their families have made. Jai Hind,” she wrote on May 8, following India’s interception of a Pakistani missile.
The Instagram post came shortly after India conducted airstrikes under Operation Sindoor, targeting terror bases in response to an attack in Pahalgam. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the operation as precise and cautious. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s “unprovoked” attacks across the Line of Control on Thursday night further escalated tensions, according to reports.
Sharma’s comments highlight the personal sacrifices of military families, a perspective that resonates deeply as she continues to honor her father’s legacy.