‘Rebel Pilot’ who shocked Pakistan - The story of Sky Force narrates the untold saga of Squadron Leader Devayya played by debutant Veer Pahariya

Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya, a name that resonates with valor, remains etched in the history of the Indian Air Force as a symbol of fearless dedication and patriotism. Known as a maverick pilot with a rebellious streak, Squadron Leader Devayya was not just a man of duty but one of extraordinary courage.

During the Indo-Pak War of 1965, Devayya undertook one of the most daring missions to destroy Pakistan’s most heavily guarded base - Sargodha. As the mission reached its peak intensity, he found himself face-to-face with a formidable adversary—a Pakistani Air Force F-104 Starfighter, one of the fastest and most advanced jets of its time. But retreat was not an option for this fearless pilot, known by his call sign, “Wings of Fire.”

In a stunning display of skill, precision, and unshakable courage, Devayya engaged the Starfighter. Despite the odds being stacked against him, he managed to outmaneuver the enemy jet and take it down. This exceptional feat made him the only Indian Air Force pilot to defeat the Starfighter during the 1965 war, showcasing his extraordinary mettle.

However, the victory came at a heavy cost. Devayya’s Mystère sustained critical damage during the confrontation, and he was unable to return to base. His aircraft went down in Pakistani territory, marking the ultimate sacrifice in defense of his mission.

The Sargodha airstrike, in which Devayya played a pivotal role, not only rattled the Pakistani Air Force but also forced them to significantly alter their strategy.

It wasn’t until 1988, 23 years after his death, that Squadron Leader Devayya was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest gallantry award during wartime. He is the only Indian Air Force officer to have received this prestigious honor posthumously.

The extraordinary life of Squadron Leader Devayya is now set to inspire millions through the upcoming film Sky Force, slated to release on January 24, 2025. Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, the movie stars Akshay Kumar and marks the debut of Veer Pahariya, who takes on the role of the fearless pilot.

The film’s trailer has already struck a chord with audiences, offering a glimpse into Devayya’s unyielding spirit and his pivotal role in the Indo-Pak War of 1965. Through a gripping narrative, Sky Force not only celebrates the heroism of Indian Air Force officers but also sheds light on Devayya’s unparalleled bravery.

For debutant Veer Pahariya, portraying Squadron Leader Devayya has been more than just a role—it’s been a journey of understanding and embodying the essence of a true hero. As part of his preparation, Veer met with Devayya’s family to gain deeper insights into the man behind the legend. A viral photo of Veer touching the feet of Devayya’s wife speaks volumes about the respect and humility with which he approached the character.

Reportedly, Veer invested significant time in studying the 1965 war and delving into the life of the fearless pilot. His dedication is evident in the film’s trailer, where his performance exudes authenticity, bringing to life the courage and charisma of Devayya. Critics and fans alike have lauded Veer for capturing the essence of the late Squadron Leader, drawing comparisons between the young actor’s zeal and Devayya’s legendary rebellious spirit.