15 movies to watch this Independence Day

Independence Day is a time to reflect on the journey of our nation, the people who fought for its freedom, and the values we continue to uphold. Indian cinema has long captured the essence of patriotism, resilience, and unity—whether by retelling historic struggles or exploring modern acts of service and sacrifice.

This curated selection of 15 films begins with stirring portrayals of the freedom movement before moving to contemporary stories that keep the flame of patriotism alive.

Gandhi (1982)

Richard Attenborough’s Gandhi is an epic retelling of the life of Mahatma Gandhi, from his early years as a lawyer in South Africa to his leadership of India’s freedom movement. Highlighting his philosophy of non-violence and his profound influence on history, the film remains one of the most acclaimed portrayals of the Father of the Nation.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2004)

Shyam Benegal’s The Forgotten Hero explores the life of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose—one of India’s most dynamic leaders. The film examines his vision for a free India, his leadership of the Indian National Army, and his controversial yet passionate approach to achieving independence.

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Chittagong (2012)

Bedabrata Pain’s Chittagong tells the story of the 1930 Chittagong armoury raid, led by schoolteacher Surya Sen and a group of teenagers. Gritty and intimate, the film focuses on lesser-known young revolutionaries whose courage lit a spark in the freedom struggle.

Khele Hum Jee Jaan Sey (2010)

Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Khele Hum Jee Jaan Sey recounts the Chittagong uprising of 1930 from a different perspective. Based on Manini Chatterjee’s book Do and Die, the film captures the planning, bravery, and sacrifice of Surya Sen and his young associates in their daring fight against British rule.

The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)

Rajkumar Santoshi’s The Legend of Bhagat Singh offers a detailed portrayal of the revolutionary leader’s life—his fearless spirit, leadership, and ultimate sacrifice. It captures his ideals and the urgency of his fight against colonial rule, ensuring his story continues to inspire new generations.

Sardar Udham (2021)

Shoojit Sircar’s Sardar Udham tells the story of Udham Singh, who avenged the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The film vividly portrays the brutality of the event and its emotional toll on the revolutionary. Visually striking and emotionally intense, it offers a raw depiction of colonial injustice.

Gandhi My Father (2007)

Directed by Feroz Abbas Khan, Gandhi My Father offers a deeply personal look at the troubled relationship between Mahatma Gandhi and his eldest son, Harilal Gandhi. It explores the tensions between public ideals and private struggles, revealing the human cost of a life devoted to national service.

Hey Ram (2000)

Directed by Kamal Haasan, Hey Ram is a complex exploration of communal violence and historical memory, set against the backdrop of Partition. Through the story of a man drawn into a conspiracy to assassinate Gandhi, it examines the corrosive effects of hatred and the possibility of redemption.

Contemporary patriotic and national unity stories

Lagaan (2001)

Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Lagaan is set in a small village during British rule. Burdened with oppressive taxes, the villagers are offered a chance to escape them by defeating the British in a cricket match. Blending sport, history, and drama, it shows how determination and teamwork can turn an impossible challenge into victory.

Swades (2004)

In Swades, also directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, an Indian scientist working at NASA returns to his homeland and reconnects with his roots. Initially reluctant to stay, he becomes committed to improving life in his village, underscoring how meaningful change often begins at the community level.

Rang De Basanti (2006)

Rakyesh Omprakash Mehra’s Rang De Basanti weaves the lives of present-day university students with the stories of India’s revolutionary freedom fighters. As they act in a documentary about the past, they begin to understand the relevance of sacrifice and responsibility in their own lives.

Chak De! India (2007)

Shimit Amin’s Chak De! India is more than just a sports drama—it is a rallying cry for unity and national pride. It follows the journey of the Indian women’s hockey team, led by a coach determined to redeem his reputation and inspire his players.

Raazi (2018)

Meghna Gulzar’s Raazi, based on Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, follows a young Kashmiri woman trained as a spy and married into a Pakistani military family during the 1971 war. With a tense narrative and a standout performance by Alia Bhatt, it is a gripping story of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice.

Madras Café (2013)

Shoojit Sircar’s Madras Café is a tense political thriller set against the backdrop of the Sri Lankan civil war and India’s involvement in the conflict. It follows an Indian intelligence officer tasked with a covert operation that unravels into a dangerous conspiracy. The film blends espionage with a hard-hitting look at geopolitical realities.

Border (1997)

Directed by JP Dutta, Border is based on the true events of the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. It follows a small group of soldiers facing overwhelming enemy forces, capturing their courage, camaraderie, and sacrifice. The action is balanced with moments of emotional depth, complemented by a stirring soundtrack.

A celebration of ideals

These films are more than just entertainment; they are cinematic reminders of the ideals that shaped our nation. Some take us back to the struggles of the independence movement, while others show how patriotism continues to influence our lives today. Watching them on Independence Day can be both an emotional experience and a tribute to the enduring spirit of India.