Who Is Neera Arya? All About Indian National Army's First Woman Spy Who's Getting A Biopic

South Indian actor and filmmaker Roopa Iyer is all set to make her Bollywood debut with ‘Neera Arya’, a biopic based on the life of India’s first female spy and soldier from the Indian National Army. The film shines a light on a forgotten hero, and here’s everything you should know about Neera Arya and her remarkable journey.
Neera Arya
Neera Arya

Neera Arya, India’s first woman spy and a brave soldier of the Indian National Army (INA), is finally getting the recognition she deserves. Her remarkable story, which has long been buried in the shadows of history, is now set to be brought to life in a powerful Hindi biopic titled ‘Neera Arya’. The movie aims to honour her legacy and highlight her role in the freedom movement.

Directed, produced, and led by award-winning filmmaker Roopa Iyer, the movie promises to be an emotional and inspiring journey through the life of a woman who stood firmly for her country even against her own family. The movie is being made under the banners of R2 Patriotic Films LLP and Roopa Iyer Film Factory (RIFF), with support from R&DS Productions, and is presented by Pranav Desai. Music for the movie, which is expected to capture the patriotic spirit of Neera’s story, is being composed by Gautham Srivatsa.

‘Neera Arya's’ Biopic Release Date

The release date for the ‘Neera Arya’ biopic has not yet been announced by the makers, but the work is in progress.

Who Was Neera Arya?

Neera Arya was born on 5 March 1902 in Khekra Nagar (Baghpat district in Uttar Pradesh). She belonged to a respectable family and had the opportunity to study in Calcutta, where she received her early education. Neera Arya was a proud member of the Indian National Army (INA) and served in the all-women Rani of the Jhansi Regiment. Her dedication and courage made her a powerful symbol of patriotism and selfless sacrifice.

Neera Arya biopic

Her father arranged her marriage to Srikant Jai Ranjan Das, a British Army officer who was then posted as CID Inspector in India. Even though she was married to a British loyalist, her heart was always with India’s freedom struggle. When he was ordered to kill Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Neera was faced with an unthinkable choice. Choosing her country over her husband, she took the brave and painful step of killing him to protect Netaji. This incredible act of courage and loyalty deeply moved Bose, who later gave her the name "Neera-Nagini" in recognition of her sacrifice.

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A Life of Sacrifice And Torture

After being captured by the British Government, Neera Arya was brutally tortured in prison in Kala Pani jail. Historical accounts suggest that her breasts were cut off during the interrogation, yet she did not break or reveal any secrets. Her silent endurance and unshakable spirit are what made her a true hero.

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Neera Arya: A Story That Deserves the Spotlight

Roopa Iyer, known for her impactful storytelling in South Indian cinema, has received two state awards and more than 40 international honours. Speaking about the movie, she shared how deeply moved she was by Neera Arya’s courage, she shared in an interview. Through this biopic, Roopa hopes to give Neera the place she truly deserves in Indian history.

With patriotism at its heart, Neera Arya is not just a movie, but it’s a long-overdue salute to a woman who gave everything for the country.


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Image credit: Instagram

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