IT’S a long way from Nepal to Reading and an even longer one from a frontline battle zone to starring in a blockbuster movie.
But that is the route Ritesh Chams has taken as the real war hero becomes a war film hero in Gurkha Warrior which will be premiered at London’s IMAX Cineworld in Leicester Square on Sunday, September 10.
Ritesh, 39, served for 11 years in the Royal Gurkha Rifles before being shot while on patrol in Afghanistan, in 2010, forcing him to be medically discharged five years later. He also did two tours of the Falklands, holds a 2nd Dan black belt in Taekwondo and a commercial pilot’s licence.
After moving to Reading in 2013, Ritesh was able to pursue another passion. He attended the Hollywood Acting Pinewood Studio in London, whose former students include Angelina Jolie and Jet Li, leaving with a Masters in acting.
“I always loved acting as a child but there weren’t many opportunities,” explained Ritesh.
“It was wonderful to attend the Pinewood Studio where I had the opportunity to learn more about the craft.
“Living in Reading is wonderful as the people are very friendly. It has provided me with so many opportunities.”
His role as Corporal Birkha Bahadur Rai in Gurkha Warrior, saw Ritesh draw on memories and stories of his grandfather, who also served in the Gurkhas during the time of the Malaya Emergency (1948 to 1960), the historical event around which the film is based.
During that period, tens of thousands of Gurkha soldiers were deployed. Their bravery, expertise and skills in jungle warfare proved invaluable.
The film tells how Corporal Birkha Bahadur Rai’s platoon embark on a mission to rescue comrades who went missing following an ambush.
Ritesh, who takes on the lead role and who performed all his own stunts, said; “It’s a privilege to be part of this film that gives viewers an insight into the bravery, integrity, loyalty and honour that defines the Gurkhas.
“Following over 200 years of history, and having served in the Brigade of Gurkhas, we all felt a great responsibility to share with the world this incredible story of the Gurkhas.
“There is still an air of mystery around the Gurkhas. This made it more important for me to embody Birkha’s character.”
Gurkha Warrior is directed by award–winning Milan Chams, and is based on a true story from memories passed down through the families of survivors involved in the original mission, corroborated by historian and author Gordon Corrigan MBE, FRAS.
The director, executive producer and leading actor are all former Gurkhas.
Milan said: “This story is one that had to be shared with the world before it is lost to history.
“We have a saying that ‘Gurkhas are born in Nepal but made in Britain’ – so it’s only fitting that we have the worldwide premiere of this new feature length film here in London.”
When asked about casting Ritesh, the director added: “I wanted to cast a real Gurkha to portray the character in the story. During the research we contacted the families of former soldiers who served at the time to bring this incredible story to life.
“The film showcases the unique history and culture of the Gurkhas through an extraordinary story of love, sacrifice and survival.”
Ritesh hopes his next role will be as Sherpa Tensing Norgay who, along with Sir Edmund Hillary, were the first two people to climb Mount Everest.
“We are talking about the film which I would love to do,” he said. “I have been to Everest base camp and know the area very well. It would be an honour to play such a role.”
Gurkha Warrior is filmed in Nepalese and Hindi with English subtitles and was shot in Nepal and Malaysia by London Cine Eye and Chams Entertainment.
It is being launched in partnership with four charities, with proceeds going to Film + TV Charity, The Gurkha Museum, Walking with the Wounded and The Gurkha Welfare Trust.
After the premiere on September 10, it will be on public release at Vue, Cineworld and Showcase Cinemas across the country on Friday, November 10, in time for Remembrance Sunday.
