The much-awaited Punjabi movie Akaal was released in theaters on April 10, 2025. Akaal marks the debut of star film-maker Karan Johar's Dharma Production in the Punjabi film industry i.e. Pollywood. Written & Directed by Gippy Grewal, Akaal revolves around a Sikh family who goes on a war with a tyrant ruler named Changi Jahana. Changi Jahana is played by actor Nikitin Dheer who has worked in a plethora of Bollywood movies. Gippy Grewal plays the protagonist Akaal Singh. Although the movie is facing a bit of controversy, it is obvious that fans may dig deep into the topic of Akaal Real Story or Akaal True Story. The reason is its resemblance to the reality of Sikh history. Below is everything you need to know about Akaal True Story or Akaal Real Story-
Is Akaal based on true events?
The answer is yes and no at the same time. According to official statements by Gippy Grewal, Sardar Akaal Singh, the lead character in the film, is a fictional creation. However, the events and the socio-political setting in which the story unfolds are deeply inspired by real incidents from Punjab’s history post-Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s death in 1839.
Gippy Grewal quoted by Social News XYZ said, "The character of Akaal is fictional, but it is based on what was happening in Punjab at that time. It draws inspiration from real circumstances."
The story of “Akaal” unfolds during the political instability following Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s reign — a time when Punjab was dealing with external invasions, internal betrayal, and falling unity among Sikh warriors. The film’s antagonist, Jangi Jahan, represents those forces that aimed to break Sikh resistance. This mirrors real history, where the collapse of the Sikh Empire, growing British influence, and internal strife laid the groundwork for the empire’s eventual downfall.
Karan Johar's connection with Akaal
During Akaal's Trailer launch, Karan Johar outlined that his late father had his roots in Punjab and that his father would be proud of him. "My father was a Punjabi and has lived in Punjab, Delhi, Shimla and Lahore, his roots are deeply Punjabi. I’ve heard him talk in Punjabi. There was a time when everyone was Punjabi in the industry. He was very much attached to his roots, culture, and his Punjabi traditions. He wanted me to talk with him in Punjabi but my mother is a Sindhi, so we would talk in Hindi or English," revealed Karan Johar.
"Wherever he is in the world, he would be proud that this is Dharma Production’s first Punjabi film. I couldn’t have chosen a better and stronger and amazing collaborator than Gippy Grewal, he is a strong force. He is so humble, talented, and has attained so much. I’m very excited about this film. This collaboration will always be special," Karan added.