When Bollywood invoked patriotism

On the 66th Republic Day, we bring you a list of all the Bollywood movies with a patriotic theme.

Here is a list of some of the best of these movies to celebrate R Day with.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swades: The story of Mohan, an engineer at NASA as he returns to India and helps his village overcome their problems, this film is one of the best patriotic films ever made. A heart warming plot, coupled with a brilliantly simple screenplay, add to brilliant performances by all its actors, especially superstar Shah Rukh Khan.

 

Rang De Basanti: The movie focuses on a group of youngsters who set out to make a film about Indian freedom fighters, along with a British filmmaker.  The current lives of the protagonists are contrasted with those of the characters they are playing.

 

Lakshya: The story of the transformation of an aimless youngster into a responsible officer in the army, this film has found a soft spot in the heart of Indian audiences. Set during the Kargil War, the fast paced plot traces the Tiger Hill operation.

 

Gadar: Ek Prem Katha: The story of Boota Singh, a Sikh soldier, who loses his Muslim wife to Pakistan after the Partition, struggles to bring her back to India.  It is a moving love story, throwing light on the social differences at the time, using the romance between a low ranking officer in the army and the daughter of an aristocratic Muslim family.

 

Lagaan: Set during the British Raj, this film highlights the struggle of the peasants against their oppressors, as they challenge them at their own sport, cricket. The film carries an important message about patriotism and unity, throwing light on the struggle of the common man during the British Raj, a subject seldom touched upon.

 

Gandhi: The multiple Oscar winning movie, this is perhaps the best known biographical movie on the life of Mahatma Gandhi. It sheds light on how he lived by his ideals of peace and non violence, even in the face of eminent death.

 

Chak De! India: The story of how the women’s hockey team goes on to win the World Cup, this film touches upon the many ills that plague Indian sport. With a patriotic message and an intense plot, this film is a must watch for its performances.