Watchlist for 78 Years of Independence: Movies on India’s Freedom Struggle
- Featured Film
Zara Flavia Dmello- 15 minutes read
As India celebrates its 78th Independence Day, it is a moment to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom and reflect on the progress made since 1947. This day is not only a commemoration of the nation’s past but also a celebration of its journey through the decades. To mark this significant occasion, we revisit a collection of films that capture the essence of India’s struggle for independence and the legacy of its freedom fighters. Each film offers a unique perspective on the historical events that shaped the nation, blending personal stories with the broader narrative of resistance and resilience. From epic biographical dramas to poignant portrayals of revolutionary zeal, these cinematic works provide a rich tapestry of India’s path to freedom.
Sardar Udham (2021)
Directed by Shoojit Sircar, Sardar Udham is a gripping biographical drama that brings to life the story of Udham Singh, portrayed by Vicky Kaushal, who avenged the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre by assassinating Michael O’Dwyer in London. The film’s non-linear narrative delves into Udham Singh’s motivations, from his involvement with the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA) to his relentless pursuit of justice. Known for its realistic portrayal of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in a graphic and extended sequence, the film received widespread acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and Kaushal’s powerful performance. Sardar Udham stands out as one of the best Hindi films of 2021, winning five National Film Awards, including Best Feature Film in Hindi, and nine Filmfare Awards.
Rang De Basanti (2006)
Rang De Basanti, directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, is a coming-of-age drama that intertwines modern youth with the revolutionary spirit of India’s freedom fighters. British film student Sue McKinley travels to India to create a documentary about Indian revolutionaries, casting five university friends, played by Aamir Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Atul Kulkarni, Sharman Joshi, and Kunal Kapoor. As they immerse themselves in their roles, the group becomes inspired to confront contemporary corruption. The film broke box office records, won the National Film Award for Best Popular Film, and earned a BAFTA nomination. A. R. Rahman’s evocative soundtrack, making Rang De Basanti a cultural milestone that resonated deeply with audiences.
1942: A Love Story (1994)
1942: A Love Story is a patriotic romantic drama directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, set during the final days of British rule in India. Anil Kapoor stars as Naren, who falls in love with Rajjo (Manisha Koirala), the daughter of a revolutionary. Their romance is threatened when Naren’s pro-British father betrays Rajjo’s father to the authorities, sparking a series of tragic events. Jackie Shroff plays Shubhankar, a revolutionary who helps Rajjo continue her father’s fight. The film, with a screenplay by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and music by R. D. Burman, became iconic for its blend of love and patriotism, and was the first Indian film to use Dolby Stereo.
Shaheed (1965)
Shaheed is a patriotic film directed by S. Ram Sharma, starring Manoj Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, and Pran. The film, based on Bhagat Singh’s life, follows his journey from witnessing his uncle’s arrest to joining the freedom struggle led by Chandrashekar Azad. After avenging Lala Lajpat Rai’s death by killing Assistant Superintendent J.P. Saunders, Bhagat Singh and his comrades, including Sukhdev and Rajguru, become central figures in the fight against British rule. They orchestrate a bomb blast in the Central Legislative Assembly and are imprisoned, where they go on hunger strike to protest the mistreatment of prisoners. Despite their efforts to escape and continued resistance, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev are executed. The film was a box-office success and received critical acclaim, winning several National Film Awards. It was later celebrated at the Independence Day Film Festival in 2016.
Victoria & Abdul (2017)
Victoria & Abdul is a British biographical historical drama directed by Stephen Frears, based on the book *Victoria & Abdul: The True Story of the Queen’s Closest Confidant* by Shrabani Basu. The film stars Judi Dench as Queen Victoria and Ali Fazal as Abdul Karim, her Indian Muslim servant. The plot follows Abdul, who travels to Britain in 1887 to present a gold coin to Queen Victoria. The Queen, disenchanted with her courtiers, forms a close friendship with Abdul, promoting him to her Munshi and learning Urdu from him. Their relationship faces resistance from the royal household, culminating in political intrigue and personal betrayal. Despite the opposition, Victoria remains loyal to Abdul until her death in 1901, after which Abdul is rejected by the new king. The film, premiered at the Venice Film Festival, grossed over $65 million worldwide and was nominated for several awards, including Best Costume Design at the Oscars.
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
The Legend of Bhagat Singh is a Hindi biographical film directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, featuring Ajay Devgan as the iconic freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. The film chronicles Singh’s journey from witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre to his execution in 1931. It includes his revolutionary activities, like the assassination of British officer John P. Saunders and the bombing of the Central Legislative Assembly. Singh, alongside his comrades, leads a hunger strike to improve prison conditions but is eventually executed before his trial. The film, produced by Tips Industries with a soundtrack by A. R. Rahman, won critical acclaim for its direction and performances but underperformed at the box office, grossing ₹129 million.
The Gandhi Murder (2019)
*The Gandhi Murder* (2019) is a historical political thriller directed by Karim Traïdia and Pankaj Sehgal. The film delves into the tumultuous period following India’s independence and the partition, focusing on the failed attempts of three Indian police officers—played by Stephen Lang, Luke Pasqualino, and Om Puri—to prevent the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi (Jesus Sans). The plot revolves around their efforts to act on intelligence about Hindu militants planning to kill Gandhi due to his tolerance towards Muslims.
Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)
Mangal Pandey: The Rising, directed by Ketan Mehta, stars Aamir Khan as Mangal Pandey, a key figure in the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Set against the backdrop of British India, the film chronicles Pandey’s journey from a loyal soldier to a rebel leader. The plot explores his efforts to resist British rule, particularly in response to the introduction of the Enfield rifle, which was rumored to be greased with substances offensive to both Hindu and Muslim soldiers. After a series of confrontations and a dramatic rebellion, Pandey is executed, sparking a broader uprising that fuels the Indian independence movement.
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar (2000)
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, directed by Jabbar Patel and featuring Mammootty in the title role, explores the life of B. R. Ambedkar, a pivotal figure in India’s struggle against caste oppression and the architect of the Indian Constitution. The film, which garnered National Film Awards for Best Feature Film in English, Best Actor, and Best Art Direction, portrays Ambedkar’s academic achievements at Columbia University and the London School of Economics, his struggles with caste discrimination in Baroda, and his efforts to uplift marginalised communities through his newspaper ‘Mooknayak’. It also highlights significant moments like his impactful speeches and interactions with figures like Shri Shahu Maharaj.
Sardar (1993)
Directed by Ketan Mehta and written by Vijay Tendulkar and Hriday Lani, Sardar depicts the life of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, portrayed by the celebrated actor. The film follows Patel’s evolution from a skeptic of Mahatma Gandhi’s methods to a key ally in the independence struggle. It highlights his pivotal role in organising Satyagrahas, negotiating the partition of India, and integrating princely states like Kashmir and Hyderabad into the Indian Union. The film also explores Patel’s complex relationship with Jawaharlal Nehru and ends with Patel reflecting on India’s unity. Sardar was part of a retrospective at the Independence Day Film Festival on August 12th, 2016, marking India’s 70th Independence Day.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2004 – 2005)
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero is an epic biographical war film directed by Shyam Benegal, featuring Sachin Khedekar in the titular role. The film chronicles Subhas Chandra Bose’s journey from a political dissident in British India to his pivotal role in forming the Azad Hind Fauj. It details Bose’s escape to Germany in 1941, his disillusionment with Nazi support, and his eventual move to Japan where he leads the Indian National Army. With a soundtrack by A. R. Rahman, the film received critical acclaim at the BFI London Film Festival and won National Film Awards for Best Feature Film on National Integration and Best Production Design. The narrative concludes with the INA trials and the events leading to Indian independence in 1947.
Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey (2010)
Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey is a historical action-adventure film directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and based on Manini Chatterjee’s *Do and Die*. The film, starring Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Sikandar Kher, depicts the 1930 Chittagong armoury raid led by Surya Sen. Set during British India’s struggle for independence, it shows Sen’s leadership of the armed rebellion, the raid’s execution, and the subsequent crackdown. Despite being primarily shot in Goa and Mumbai, it authentically represents the historic events. The film concludes with Surya Sen’s arrest, torture, and execution, highlighting his sacrifice and the brutal response of colonial authorities.
Jaanisaar (2015)
Jaanisaar is a historical drama directed by Muzaffar Ali, with a script by Javed Siddiqui, Shama Zaidi, and Ali himself. Set in 1877, the film stars Imran Abbas and debutante Pernia Qureshi. It portrays a love story between a revolutionary tawaif, Noor, and Prince Amir Haydar, who returns to India after being educated in England. As the country struggles against British rule, Haydar joins Noor and her mentor, Mir Mohsin Sahab, in their fight for independence. The film blends romance with the fervour of the Indian Rebellion, highlighting the personal and political struggles of its characters.
Shatranj Ke Khilari (1977)
Shatranj Ke Khilari, also known internationally as The Chess Players, is a Hindi historical drama directed by Satyajit Ray and based on Munshi Premchand’s short story. Set in 1856, just before the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the film stars Sanjeev Kumar and Saeed Jaffrey as two wealthy, chess-obsessed noblemen. Amidst the British annexation of the Oudh State and Nawab Wajid Ali Shah’s ineffectual rule, the film explores the personal distractions of these men, who neglect their responsibilities and families in favour of their chess games. The narrative critiques the detachment and cowardice of the ruling classes, which contributed to their downfall. The film ends with a poignant moment as one nobleman forgives the other, acknowledging their shared delusions and failures.
