'She is not a red flag': Prajakta Koli on the Operation Safed Sagar backlash

Netflix's Kargil War drama Operation Safed Sagar has been a topic of conversation since August, with one argument being about a civilian character. Prajakta Koli portrays Madhavi Reddy, the girlfriend of Flying Officer CH Bal Reddy, played by Mihir Ahuja. Madhavi's unannounced visit to the Indian Air Force base led some online viewers to label her a red flag.

However, Koli disagrees with this characterization. In an interview, she explained that her performance was rooted in the genuine emotions of love and a desire for a life together, rather than posing a warning sign. Koli emphasized that people are multifaceted, and Bal Reddy's dedication to his country and his love for Madhavi are not mutually exclusive.

She also highlighted that the show goes beyond the typical portrayal of service personnel's partners, which are often depicted as waiting at home for news. Koli appreciated the depth the series provided to its characters, allowing for complex, relatable personalities. Playing such a role, she said, was an honor. Koli, who gained popularity through her YouTube channel MostlySane, is known for her roles in Mismatched and Single Papa.

Operation Safed Sagar is a distinct departure from both of these works, with a six-episode period war drama that premiered on Netflix on August 7, 2026. The series is based on the Indian Air Force's high-altitude air campaign during the 1999 Kargil conflict, focusing on the Golden Arrows squadron.