'Jai Hind'! Manoj, Raveena pay homage to freedom fighters

Aug 14, 2015 IANS

New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) Actors Manoj Bajpayee and Raveena Tandon have featured in a digital film “Jai Hind” which pays homage to the freedom fighters.

The digital film, released online on Thursday night, features Manoj and Raveena asking consumers to join in through the social media movement 'Azaadi4me'. It is an initiative by OYO Rooms, a technology driven network of hotels.

Set in modern day Mumbai, "Jai Hind" captures what present day India would be like if it was still under British rule. Told through the eyes of a regular couple on an evening out, this film aims to serve as a powerful reminder of what day-to-day life would be if India was not an independent nation.

Manoj, a critically acclaimed actor, said the project is close to his heart.

"As an artist to encapsulate such a powerful message in such a short format is both challenging and exciting. It’s a pragmatic film with a strong social message that I believe will force the audience to stop, step back and introspect,” Manoj said in a statement.

He also enjoyed collaborating with Raveena, with whom he has earlier worked in films like "Aks" and "Shool".

"It was great to be back on set with Raveena, who remains one of my favourite co-stars till date," he added.

Even Raveena found "Jai Hind" a "heart-touching and thought-provoking initiative.

"It gives the audience a new perspective on the freedom they enjoy. As a proud Indian, this film serves as a powerful reminder of how lucky we are to be part of an independent and democratic India.

"Being back on set with Manoj and the crew was very exciting and truly one of the most cherished experiences of my life,” she said.

OYO Rooms founder and CEO Ritesh Agarwal says the video is their way of saluting the heroes "who gave us the country we are living in today".