Timeless appeal of Hindi patriotic films, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

Bollywood, the beating heart of Indian cinema, has always had a special place for patriotic films. These films, imbued with fervent nationalism and deep-rooted cultural pride, have resonated with audiences for decades. They evoke a sense of unity, remind us of the sacrifices made for freedom, and often serve as a mirror reflecting the socio-political landscape of the country. Here’s an exploration of some of the most iconic Bollywood patriotic films that have left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the nation.

Mother India (1957)

Directed by Mehboob Khan, Mother India is a seminal film in Indian cinema, often regarded as the epitome of patriotism. The story revolves around Radha, played by Nargis, a resilient woman who symbolizes the nation’s integrity, strength, and unwavering spirit. As she battles poverty, natural disasters, and societal pressures, Radha’s journey reflects the struggles of post-independence India. The film is a poignant allegory for the newly independent nation, depicting the challenges of rebuilding and the indomitable spirit required to overcome them. “Mother India” not only became a cultural icon but also represented India at the Oscars, showcasing the country’s cinematic prowess on the global stage.

Haqeeqat (1964)

Chetan Anand’s Haqeeqat is widely regarded as one of the most realistic portrayals of war in Indian cinema. Set against the backdrop of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the film tells the story of a small platoon of Indian soldiers trapped in the icy Himalayan ranges. With impeccable performances by Balraj Sahni, Dharmendra, and Priya Rajvansh, “Haqeeqat” captures the harsh realities of war and the courage of Indian soldiers. The song “Ab Tumhare Hawale Watan Sathiyo,” composed by Madan Mohan and sung by Mohammed Rafi, became an anthem of patriotism, stirring the hearts of millions.

Upkar (1967)

Upkar, directed by Manoj Kumar, is another landmark film that embodies the essence of patriotism. Manoj Kumar, who later became synonymous with patriotic cinema, plays Bharat, a farmer who sacrifices everything for his country. The film addresses themes of selflessness, national duty, and the importance of agriculture in India’s development. The iconic song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti” became a rallying cry for farmers and patriots alike, emphasizing the film’s impact on the Indian psyche.

Shaheed (1965)

Shaheed, directed by S. Ram Sharma, is a biographical film that pays tribute to the legendary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. Manoj Kumar’s portrayal of Bhagat Singh is both intense and inspiring, capturing the revolutionary’s indomitable spirit and his unwavering commitment to India’s freedom. The film is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by countless freedom fighters, and its songs, particularly “Mera Rang De Basanti Chola,” have become synonymous with the spirit of independence.

Kranti (1981)

Kranti, directed by Manoj Kumar, is a historical epic that captures the essence of India’s struggle for independence. The film, set during the British Raj, tells the story of a revolutionary leader, Bharat, and his fight against British oppression. With a star-studded cast including Dilip Kumar, Manoj Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, and Hema Malini, “Kranti” became one of the highest-grossing films of its time. The film’s narrative of unity, sacrifice, and resistance against colonial rule resonated deeply with audiences, making it a timeless classic in the patriotic genre.

Border (1997)

J.P. Dutta’s Border is one of the most iconic war films in Bollywood, depicting the Battle of Longewala during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The film’s ensemble cast, including Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna, and Jackie Shroff, delivered powerful performances that brought the harsh realities of war to life. “Border” is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Army, and its songs, particularly “Sandese Aate Hain,” have become anthems of national pride. The film’s realistic portrayal of the battlefield, combined with its emotional depth, made it a massive success, cementing its place in the annals of Indian cinema.

Lagaan (2001)

Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan is a unique blend of sports and patriotism, set against the backdrop of British colonial rule in India. The film tells the story of a small village in Gujarat that challenges British officers to a game of cricket to abolish the oppressive tax, or lagaan, imposed on them. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Bhuvan, the determined leader of the villagers, is both inspiring and uplifting. “Lagaan” is not just a film about cricket; it’s a story of resistance, unity, and the indomitable spirit of the Indian people. The film received international acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, further showcasing Bollywood’s ability to tell compelling stories with universal appeal.

Rang De Basanti (2006)

Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Rang De Basanti is a modern-day take on patriotism, blending history with contemporary issues. The film follows a group of young friends who, after enacting the lives of freedom fighters for a documentary, become inspired to fight against corruption and injustice in modern India. The film’s narrative draws parallels between the sacrifices of historical figures like Bhagat Singh and the struggles of today’s youth. Rang De Basanti became a cultural phenomenon, sparking discussions on social activism and the role of the youth in shaping the nation’s future. Its soundtrack, composed by A.R. Rahman, and the powerful lyrics of songs like Khoon Chala and Luka Chuppi, further elevated the film’s impact.

Chak De! India (2007)

Chak De! India, directed by Shimit Amin, is another film that redefined patriotism in Bollywood. Starring Shah Rukh Khan as Kabir Khan, a disgraced former hockey player who coaches the Indian women’s hockey team to victory, the film is a powerful narrative of redemption, teamwork, and national pride. Chak De! India not only highlighted the importance of women’s sports but also emphasized the idea of unity in diversity, with the team comprising players from different parts of India. The film’s title track, Chak De! India, became an anthem of national pride, inspiring audiences to believe in the power of perseverance and unity.

URI: The Surgical Strike (2019)
URI: The Surgical Strike, directed by Aditya Dhar, is a recent addition to Bollywood’s patriotic canon. The film is based on the real-life surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army in response to the 2016 Uri attack. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Major Vihaan Singh Shergill captured the nation’s imagination, with his line “How’s the Josh?” becoming a rallying cry for audiences across the country. The film’s high-octane action sequences, combined with its portrayal of strategic military operations, made it a massive box-office success. “URI” not only highlighted the valor of the Indian armed forces but also brought a new wave of nationalism to the forefront of Indian cinema.

Bollywood’s patriotic films have always played a crucial role in shaping the national narrative. These films, with their powerful storytelling and memorable performances, have the ability to inspire, unite, and remind us of the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom. From the tales of revolutionary heroes to the stories of modern-day warriors, Bollywood’s portrayal of patriotism continues to evolve, reflecting the changing times and the nation’s collective aspirations. As we look back on these iconic films, we are reminded of the enduring power of cinema to move hearts, ignite passions, and instill a deep sense of pride in our national identity.