'Ruling the waves', a must watch documentary on the Indian Navy on 15th August only on Natio

National Geographic’s documentary Inside INA gives a ringside view of the Indian Naval Academy and the heroes it turns outWith more than 7000 kilometre coastline to protect, the Indian Navy has an uphill task guarding it. While being assured that the Navy men and ships are taking adequate care of this, people in general know very little about this wing of armed forces and its members. Addressing this critical issue is National Geographic’s documentary Inside INA. The hour-long film takes the viewers for the first time inside the Indian Naval Academy, the largest in Asia, located in Ezhimala in Kerala, giving them a close view of the Navy and its men, an armed wing which usually tends to remain in the shadows of its much publicised siblings, the Army and Air Force.The documentary which will be telecast on August 15, the country’s 71st Independence Day, is a captivating narrative that accurately captures how the men and women are trained and moulded into heroes. It captures the meticulous mental and physical training they undergo to become world’s finest fighting machines.Summing up the show at its launch recently, Shruti Takulia, the show’s Creative Director, said, “Audience can see and feel the life of a naval cadet, up close and personal. We track the cadets from their pre-dawn physical training at 4 a.m., which includes drills and exercises, to their classes on naval subjects and practicals at world class laboratories, to the firing range, jungle training combat camps, to sports and games and finally ending with dinner. Following every step, the film provides a ringside view.” It is not just the daily routine that is fascinating but the transformation of the young civilians into officers that is riveting to watch.Human touchWhen asked if the mere filming of cadet’s daily life will not make the show tedious, Shruti replied, “In order to ensure that it does not we have given a human touch to make the audience realise the emotion and feelings of the cadet.” Citing the incidents included in the film, she said, “It was an eye-opener to know that many who join Navy do not know swimming, as many thought it must be one of the prerequisites. Such cadets are known as ‘dead sinkers’. We met once such woman cadet, Shruti Sood, who narrated how after joining Navy she overcame the fear of water and got trained to swim and jump from 10 metre height.”Shruti pointed out that the four years in the Academy led to strong bonds between men and also between an individual and the institution. “We have filmed Captain Ashutosh who was all set to pass out having his last hair cut at the Academy. Explaining how the hair cut ensures uniformity among the cadets and not allowing them to waste time on hair care, he became all choked up on realising that he had to bid goodbye to the Academy.”Documenting the ceremonies and customs of the Academy, makes the film colourful and engaging. “These are very interesting. Like at the passing out parade the parents have the privilege of uncovering the stripes worn by their ward, signifying, their becoming an officer is very touching. So is the Antim Pag, when the officers walk down steps to leave the Academy,” said Shruti.What makes the docu-drama interesting is how it catches the action as it happens. Thus viewers see cadets climbing high walls swiftly, parachuting from great heights, carrying heavy loads, practising fire arms and playing — all this without any retakes. “We were under strict instructions not to disturb the cadets and their actions. So we had no second chance and everything one sees is first shot,” stated Shruti.Regarding such films an effective mean for interface between the people and the forces, Vice Admiral A. K. Chawla suggested that there should be more such initiatives focusing on the areas which can be opened for public without compromising security. “This will make the people know more about their soldiers and also inspire them to become a part of the endeavour to secure the nation.”The Vice Admiral hoped that the documentary will motivate more people to opt for Navy as a career. Agreeing that there was a shortage of manpower, he explained, “We have very stringent and uncompromising standards for choosing our cadets, so many are unable to make the cut. We hope this film, showcasing the gallant, adventurous, honourable and fulfilling life that navy offers lead, will woo more youngsters to join us.” Concurring with him, Shruti, said, “the documenting of how heroes are made is bound to swell the national pride and make viewers feel proud of their Navy.”With low salaries as compared to civilian jobs, frequent transfers and hard postings, how can more youngsters be expected to come forward? Disagreeing with this, Chawla, said, “Navy offers several intangibles like security of job, medical facilities, pension after retirement and a dependable camaraderie for life time. These do not come with other jobs.” According to him that is not all. “The officers’ qualifications and vast and varied work experience make they much sought after when they leave the Navy.”What about the seamen and sailors? “Their technical skills in fields like computing and medical assistance among others make them in great demand considering shortage of skilled hands. We have started a skill development programme in which those leaving the Navy go through a bridge course and are certified. None of them go without a job while many get multiple offers,” revealed the Vice Admiral.The documentary besides providing glimpses of life at the Academy, is suffused with plethora of background material. This includes its history, how it came into being, its layout and an overview of the 2400 acres of land, forest and sea.(To be telecast on National Geographic on August 15, 9 p.m.).

Navy offers several intangibles like security of job, medical facilities, pension after retirement and a dependable camaraderie for life timeVice Admiral A. K. Chawla