RN Kao biopic: Karan Johar announces RAW founder film, release date set for 2028 | His role during 1971 war

PTC Web Desk: After years of waiting, the story of one of India's most influential intelligence officers is finally heading to the big screen. Dharma Productions has announced a feature film on Rameshwar Nath Kao, the first chief of India's external intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW).

The project, being made with Leo Media Collective, is scheduled to reach theatres on August 11, 2028.

The film was first announced in 2020, but there had been no major update on the project for several years. The new announcement has once again brought attention to Kao's career and his role in building India's intelligence network.

The film is based on journalist and author Nitin Gokhale's book RN Kao: 'Gentleman Spymaster'. The makers have said the story will focus on Kao's journey and the early years of R&AW. Details about the cast and director have not yet been officially revealed.

Who was Rameshwar Nath Kao?

Born in Benares in 1918, Rameshwar Nath Kao joined the Indian Imperial Police after clearing the Civil Services examination. He later moved into intelligence work and served with the Intelligence Bureau.

His early career included assignments linked to aviation security and international investigations. He was also involved in the probe into the 1955 bombing of Air India's Kashmir Princess, an incident that attracted international attention.

Kao's career took a major turn after the 1962 India-China war, when concerns grew over gaps in India's intelligence system. He played a key role in the creation of a separate external intelligence organisation.

Kao and the birth of R&AW

In 1968, the government created the Research and Analysis Wing by separating external intelligence work from the Intelligence Bureau. Kao became its first chief.

Starting with a relatively small team, he helped build the organisation's structure, recruit specialised personnel and establish systems for gathering intelligence on threats outside India. He remained at the helm of R&AW until 1977.

His role during the 1971 war

The 1971 India-Pakistan war became one of the most significant phases of Kao's career. Under his leadership, R&AW provided intelligence and supported operations linked to the Mukti Bahini in East Pakistan. The agency also supplied intelligence inputs to Indian authorities during the conflict.

Historical accounts have highlighted intelligence received before Pakistan's December 3, 1971 air attacks, allowing India to prepare for the assault. The war ended with the surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka and the creation of Bangladesh.

Life after R&AW

Kao left the post of R&AW chief in 1977 after the change of government. He returned to government service after Indira Gandhi came back to power in 1980 and served as her security adviser. He later worked with Rajiv Gandhi as well.

He was also associated with the creation of the National Security Guard (NSG) and remained involved in strategic security matters during the later part of his career.

Kao died in New Delhi in January 2002 at the age of 83. His career continues to be studied in accounts of India's intelligence history.

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