As night falls on Army Day 2025, the nation comes together to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and commitment of its armed forces. This year, the celebration is taking place in Pune, rather than Delhi.
January 15 marks the day Field Marshal KM Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. The parade in Pune this year highlights the strength and spirit of the soldiers, featuring impressive displays of military might, including tanks, synchronised marching, and a breath-taking flypast by the Indian Air Force. It’s a moment to pay tribute to those who protect our nation, ensuring our freedom and safety.
In this spirit, Indian cinema has long served as a powerful medium for portraying the valour and dedication of our soldiers. Films that depict military heroism and sacrifice go beyond entertainment; they stand as powerful reminders of the courage and commitment of the men and women in uniform. Here are five iconic films that best capture the essence of the Indian Army and its soldiers:
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Border (1997)
Border is the cult classic based on real events at Longewala, where a massive confrontation occurred during the India-Pakistan war of 1971. Directed by JP Dutta, Border takes its audience through an unvarnished presentation of the glorious battle fought by a few Indians against a sea of Pakistanis who came against the tiny battalion. The film showcases the Indian Army’s sheer bravado and camaraderie in battle. With an ensemble cast of Sunny Deol, Jackie Shroff, and Sunil Shetty, it narrates the intense battle and eventual triumph of the Indian forces against all odds.
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
Uri was a landmark film in Indian military cinema. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film is based on the 2016 surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. It focuses on the bravery and strategic genius of the soldiers who were part of the operation. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Captain Vihan Singh Shergill won hearts, and the film itself became a tribute to the Indian Army’s ability to protect the nation from external threats. Uri captures the modern-day might and precision of the armed forces.
Lakshya (2004)
Directed by Farhan Akhtar, Lakshya tells the story of a young, aimless man, Karan Shergill, played by Hrithik Roshan, who transforms into a brave soldier during the Kargil War. The film captures the emotional and physical journey of a soldier, highlighting themes of growth, patriotism, and sacrifice. Lakshya is not just a war movie; it’s a tale of self-discovery and courage that resonates deeply with anyone who has ever served the nation.
Shershaah (2021)
Shershaah is the biographical story of Captain Vikram Batra, a hero of the Kargil War, who made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. Directed by Vishnu Varadhan, the film stars Sidharth Malhotra in the titular role and portrays the intense and emotional journey of a soldier who led from the front in the battle against Pakistan in Kargil. The film captures the valor of Batra, the love for the country, and the painful loss suffered by his family, making it a moving tribute to the young soldier’s legacy.
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Haqeeqat (1964)
The very first film about the India-China war of 1962 that depicted the bravery of Indian soldiers is an ageless epic, Haqeeqat. Directed by Chetan Anand, the movie is grounded in the struggles faced by Indian soldiers who were fighting in the extremely harsh Himalayas. The realism of the movie, combined with an unforgettable score, makes Haqeeqat a tribute that no one will ever forget.
As the day comes to a close, reflecting on the sacrifices of our military, these films remind us of the bravery and resilience that define the Indian Army. Army Day 2025 is not just a celebration of the valor of soldiers but also of their immortal legacy, which continues to inspire generations.
Jai Hind!
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