Picket 43

Harindran Nair, an Indian soldier, is assigned to guard an isolated Indian border post called Picket 43 in Kashmir. Known to be a high-risk area, Harindran is compelled by his superior officer to take on this duty, even though he had been granted leave. His only companion at the picket is a trained dog named Baccardi, whom Harindran treats with deep respect, regarding the dog almost as a human partner and forbidding others from calling Baccardi a mere "dog". He shares his thoughts and emotions with Baccardi, which helps him endure the isolation and challenges of his post.

It is gradually revealed that Harindran's leave had been planned so he could marry his cousin, whom he loves. However, his marriage proposal had been rejected by his uncle in favor of a wealthier suitor from Dubai. Determined to marry her, Harindran had planned a registry marriage during his next leave. This disappointment over his canceled leave contributes to his initial despondence at the picket.

During his first eight months at Picket 43, Harindran encounters a hostile Pakistani soldier stationed at an opposing border post. However, this soldier is eventually replaced by Mushraff, a more amiable Pakistani ranger. Despite their differing nationalities, Harindran and Mushraff find common ground, gradually developing a close friendship that lifts their spirits amid the harsh conditions.

One day, terrorists launch an attack on the border. Mushraff is fatally wounded while supporting Harindran, who, despite being alone, manages to repel the attack, neutralizing all the militants. As reinforcements arrive, Harindran urgently requests that Mushraff receive medical attention, warning that he would cross the Line of Control (L.O.C.) himself if aid does not arrive swiftly. Medics eventually arrive, and it is revealed that Mushraff survives.

In recognition of his courage, Harindran is honored by his commanding officer and recommended for the Shaurya Chakra award. The story highlights the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting the nation and serves as a reflection on the shared humanity and bonds that can form even across hostile borders.

Instead of focusing on devastating wars and the like, the movie deals more with the psychological trauma a soldier has to go through in order to safeguard his motherland. It also throws light on the fact that friendship is not based on certain rules or conventions and that the key factor for a true friendship is to have a better understanding and compassion for each other. It also explains how a faithful dog can turn out to be your confidante when you feel alone and dejected.

Initially, Ravi developed the film with Mohanlal in the lead role as the next installment in the Major Mahadevan film series. However, Mohanlal felt the character was not suited to his age and recommended casting a younger actor. He was also uncertain about how a lower-ranking Havildar Mahadevan would align with the series. Ultimately, he suggested Prithviraj Sukumaran for the role.^[2][3] Ravi stated that Havildar Harindran was originally written as a heroic character, but this aspect was later softened following Prithviraj's suggestion.^[4] For the role of Harindran's companion dog, he cast Hakka, also known as Bacardi, a trained Labrador Retriever with six years of service as a tracker dog for the Indian Army. However, the dog died before the film's release.^[5]

Prithviraj joined the film's shooting in Kashmir in March 2014.^[6] Home portions of the film was shot in Ottappalam, Kerala. The film was shot over three to four seasons in Jammu and Kashmir. During filming, Major Mukund Varadarajan, who was assisting the crew, was killed in combat in the Shopian area. Protection for the team was provided by army friends of Ravi, himself a retired Major.^[7] Ravi dedicated Picket 43 as a tribute to Major Varadarajan.^[8] Originally scheduled for 35 days, filming was completed in just 22 days.^[4]