Akshaye Khanna Gears Up for a Powerful Comeback with 'Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti'

Entertainment News: Akshaye Khanna is all set to make a gripping return to the silver screen, portraying a character that epitomizes courage, tactical brilliance, and sacrifice. The trailer of his upcoming film, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti, was released on June 23 and has since generated significant buzz on social media. The movie is inspired by the real-life 2002 terrorist attack on the Akshardham Temple in Gujarat and the subsequent counter-operation by the National Security Guard (NSG).

Khanna as a NSG officer 

In this intense drama, Akshaye Khanna takes on the role of Major Hanut Singh, a senior officer in the National Security Guard. The trailer opens with a chilling message from the terrorists, followed by scenes depicting gunfire, chaos, and terror in the temple premises. The NSG is swiftly deployed, and under Major Singh’s leadership, a team of commandos launches a high-risk rescue mission to eliminate the attackers and save innocent lives.

Based on the True Events of September 24, 2002

The film draws directly from the horrifying events of September 24, 2002, when the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, was attacked by armed terrorists. In this brutal assault, many innocent devotees, including women and children, lost their lives. The terrorists held dozens hostage inside the temple, prompting the Indian government to deploy the elite NSG unit. After an intense overnight operation, all terrorists were neutralized, and many lives were saved.

A Story of Strategy, Valor, and National Spirit

More than just a recreation of a tragic incident, Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti delves into the intricate planning, split-second decisions, and exceptional bravery that defined the NSG’s mission. Directed by Ken Ghosh, the film features a strong ensemble cast including Gautam Rode, Vivek Dahiya, Akshay Oberoi, and Abhilash Chaudhary, alongside Khanna.

Nationwide Theatrical Release on July 4

The film is scheduled for a theatrical release across India on July 4, 2025. This marks the first time that the Akshardham attack has been depicted on the big screen in such detail. Alongside the trailer launch, Zee Studios revealed a striking poster that features the shadow of an armed commando against the backdrop of a temple—a powerful image symbolizing both looming danger and unwavering defense.

An evening of terror. A night of unmatched valour. 🔥

Here's the first look of #AkshardhamOperationVajraShakti, a story that India will never forget!

Trailer out tomorrow. Stay tuned.

Releasing in cinemas on 4th July.#AkshayeKhanna @kenghosh #AbhimanyuSingh #UmeshKrBansal… pic.twitter.com/dUoJOQ4rL0

— Zee Studios (@ZeeStudios_) June 23, 2025

The trailer sparked a flurry of positive reactions, with many viewers applauding Akshaye Khanna’s gripping performance and reminiscing about his impactful role in classics like Border. However, the trailer also drew some criticism, with a few users questioning whether the film is simply a rebranded theatrical version of State of Siege: Temple Attack, which was released on OTT platforms in 2021. The filmmakers have not issued any official clarification on this point yet.

It remains to be seen whether Akshardham: Operation Vajra Shakti will inspire the same sense of national pride and emotional resonance as films like Uri: The Surgical Strike, Shershaah, and Border. Rooted in real events and highlighting the unwavering resolve of India’s security forces, this film promises a powerful tribute to unsung heroes. The real test, however, will unfold on July 4 when it hits the theaters.