India has a proud history of achievements in space exploration, but few people know the stories of the scientists who made it possible. Rocket Boys, a web series on SonyLIV, aims to change that by dramatizing the lives and work of Homi Jehangir Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai, two of India’s most influential physicists and visionaries.
The series, which premiered its second season on Friday, is produced by Nikkhil Advani and directed by Abhay Pannu. It stars Jim Sarbh as Homi J Bhabha, the father of India’s nuclear programme, and Ishwak Singh as Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme.
In an interview he said, Nikkhil Advani revealed how he chose the cast for the show. He said that Jim Sarbh was a “given” for the role of Bhabha, as he had worked with him before in Made in Heaven and was impressed by his versatility and charisma. He also praised Ishwak Singh for his portrayal of Sarabhai, saying that he brought a lot of depth and nuance to the character.
Advani said that he wanted to make a show that would honour the legacy of these scientists and inspire young Indians to pursue science and innovation. He said that he consulted with experts and historians to ensure accuracy and authenticity in depicting their achievements and challenges.
Nikkhil Advani’s Rocket Boys overwhelms Sarabhai’s Family
He also shared that he received positive feedback from Sarabhai’s family after they watched the first season. He said that they were “emotional” and “overwhelmed” by seeing their ancestor’s story on screen. He hoped that Bhabha’s family would also appreciate the show.
Rocket Boys is not just a biopic of two individuals, but also a tribute to India’s scientific spirit and ambition. It showcases how Bhabha and Sarabhai collaborated with each other and other scientists across disciplines and institutions to create a foundation for India’s nuclear and space capabilities.
The series also explores their personal lives, their relationships with their families, friends, colleagues and rivals, their passions and hobbies, their struggles and failures. It humanizes them as complex characters who had dreams, doubts, flaws and fears.
Rocket Boys is a rare example of Indian web content that celebrates science without sensationalizing it. It is an engaging and enlightening watch for anyone interested in learning more about India’s space pioneers.
Rocket Boys is streaming on Sony Liv