He has worked hard on the role for over two years and it shows. Amir Khan as the slain hero of the First War of Indian Independence, Mangal Pandey has virtually lived that role. Known as the best method actor in Bollywood, his portrayal of Mangal is very convincing especially because not much is known about the warrior’s personality. Ketan Mehta, who is a well-known director has created the screenplay after extensive research. Another great plus for the film is the music by A.R. Rahman. It matches the mood of the film perfectly and arouses patriotic fervor a la Ma Tujhe Salam. This is Rahman’s second project with Amir after the mega hit Lagaan. The film opens on August 12 coinciding with the Independence Day weekend. Let us stand in salute to the great soldier who died so that his countrymen could breathe free.