It's a mistake, however, to try to delve into the movie looking for deep political or social commentary, or even a complex plot. 'Gunga Din' is pretty much what it appears to be on its surface- an exhilarating tale which never leaves you in doubt of who are the good guys and who are the bad.
F.Y.I.
* The term "thug" came into use in English from this Indian word, which means "thief".
* William Goldman was such a big fan of the movie that he named his first novel 'The Temple of Gold' after the Thuggee hideout.
* Sgt. Cutter only got to sing a few lines of 'The Roast Beef of Old England' before being rudely interrupted. Here are all the lyrics to enjoy:
The Roast Beef of Old England
When mighty Roast Beef was the Englishman's food,
It ennobled our brains and enriched his blood.
Our soldiers were brave and our courtiers were good.
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
But since we have learnt from all-vapouring France
To eat their ragouts as well as to dance,
We're fed up with nothing but vain complaisance.
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
Our fathers of old were robust, stout, and strong,
And kept open house, with good cheer all day long,
Which made their plump tenants rejoice in this song-
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
But now we are dwindled, what shall I name?
A sneaking poor race, half-begotten and tame,
Who sully the honours that once shone in fame.
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
When good Queen Elizabeth sat on the throne,
Ere coffee, or tea, or such slip-slops were known,
The world was in terror if e'er she did frown.
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
In those days, if fleets did presume on the Main,
They seldom, or never, returned back again-
As witness, the Vaunting Armada of Spain.
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!
Oh then we had stomachs to eat and to fight,
And when wrongs were cooking to do ourselves right.
But now we're a... I could, but goodnight!
Oh! The Roast Beef of old England,
And old English Roast Beef!