From Army Intelligence Chief To Neem Karoli Baba: The Incredible Journey Of Colonel Hunny Bakshi In Hanuman Ansh 

New Delhi: Colonel Hunny Bakshi has become a topic of public interest after appearing as Neem Karoli Baba in the 2026 film Hanuman Ansh. 

A decorated Indian Army Intelligence Corps officer, Bakshi spent decades serving in military intelligence before entering the world of cinema. His journey from handling sensitive national security assignments to portraying a revered spiritual figure on screen has attracted widespread attention across India.

Who Is Colonel Hunny Bakshi

Colonel Munishwar Nath Bakshi, popularly known as Colonel Hunny Bakshi, is a retired officer of the Indian Army’s Intelligence Corps.

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He was commissioned into the Military Intelligence Corps in December 1988 after completing training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. Throughout his military career, he served in several important assignments related to Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, and military intelligence operations.

Decorations And Achievements

Colonel Bakshi is a recipient of the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), an honour awarded for distinguished service in the armed forces. Before leading major intelligence assignments, he commanded a Military Intelligence unit in Kolkata between 2007 and 2010.

He has publicly spoken about his operational experiences, including counter-IED operations and security-related missions in the Northeast.

Commanding The Technical Support Division

The Technical Support Division (TSD) was a covert Military Intelligence unit established in 2010 during the tenure of former Army Chief General V.K. Singh. Colonel Bakshi was selected to raise and command the unit. The division operated from Delhi Cantonment and was assigned intelligence-related tasks connected to national security.

Public Discussions Around TSD

Over the years, the TSD remained a subject of public debate and media attention. Several reports and discussions emerged regarding the unit’s activities, though many operational details remain classified. The TSD was eventually disbanded in 2012 following General V.K. Singh’s retirement from service.

Years Of Inquiries And Legal Proceedings

After the closure of the TSD, Colonel Bakshi faced multiple inquiries linked to the functioning of the unit. Questions were raised regarding surveillance equipment, classified materials, and expenditure from secret funds.

Court Martial Proceedings

Colonel Hunny Bakshi was later attached for General Court Martial proceedings. However, in March 2018, the proceedings were dropped after the court accepted a plea concerning procedural and legal issues. No conviction resulted from the proceedings. He continued serving in the Army before taking premature retirement on November 5, 2019.

From Military Intelligence To Public Commentary

Following retirement, Colonel Bakshi emerged as a defence and national security commentator. He has participated in interviews and public discussions on military intelligence, Kashmir, internal security, the Agnipath recruitment scheme, Khalistan-related concerns, and developments in Manipur. His experience with military intelligence has made him a frequently discussed figure in defence circles.

Colonel Hunny Bakshi As Neem Karoli Baba

In a surprising career shift, Colonel Bakshi entered the film industry with the 2026 movie Hanuman Ansh. He portrayed Neem Karoli Baba, one of India’s most respected spiritual figures.

How Colonel Hunny Bakshi Got The Role

According to Colonel Bakshi, his involvement in the film began after he approached director Vishal Chaturvedi with a script idea. His physical resemblance to Neem Karoli Baba reportedly led to him being offered the role.

Preparing For The Character

Bakshi stated that he followed strict dietary restrictions while preparing for the role. He later described the film’s commercial success as a “miracle” and a memorable experience in his post-retirement life.

Colonel Hunny Bakshi: A New Chapter After Army Service

After retirement, Colonel Bakshi has shown interest in writing scripts and working on creative projects. He has also indicated that audiences may see him in a larger role if a sequel to Hanuman Ansh is produced.

A Unique Journey

From graduating at the Indian Military Academy and serving in intelligence operations to portraying Neem Karoli Baba on the big screen, Colonel Hunny Bakshi’s career has taken an unusual and remarkable path. His story reflects a rare transition from military service to public commentary and cinema.

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