This Independence Day, spend the long weekend with films that celebrate the spirit of freedom.
Independence Day is here, and as we watch our tricolour flutter proudly against the sky, we breathe in a free nation. This day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of the countless sacrifices, struggles, and dreams that shaped our country’s destiny. This year, with Independence Day arriving alongside a long weekend, let’s resist the temptation to treat it as just another holiday. Instead, let’s celebrate it with pride and gratitude. And what better way than by revisiting some timeless patriotic movies that remind us of the sacrifices and pride that built our nation.
Remember the iconic “Yeh Dil Maange More”? The unforgettable line from ‘Shershaah,’ a biographical war drama directed by Vishnuvardhan in his Hindi debut. Starring Sidharth Malhotra as both Captain Vikram Batra and his twin brother Vishal, alongside Kiara Advani as Dimple Cheema, the film beautifully captures Batra’s journey from a young cadet to a brave Kargil War hero, who laid down his life during Operation Vijay in 1999. A must-watch that stirs the soul with patriotism and pride.
Not your typical soldier film, yet brimming with patriotism, ‘Chak De! India’ features Shah Rukh Khan as Kabir Khan, a former captain of the Indian men’s hockey team who is shunned after a controversial defeat. Years later, he redeems himself by coaching the Indian women’s national hockey team. The story follows his journey to unite sixteen players from diverse corners of the country and lead them to international glory. An amazing blend of patriotism and women’s empowerment, perfect for an Independence Day watch!
‘Border’ is a must-watch on any list of patriotic films! Directed by J. P. Dutta, this epic war drama is set during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and is inspired by the real-life Battle of Longewala. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast including Sunny Deol, Jackie Shroff, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna, Sudesh Berry, and Puneet Issar, the film was declared an All-Time Blockbuster by Box Office India. With its soundtrack and powerful performances, ‘Border’ continues to stand as a benchmark for patriotic cinema in India.
“How’s the Josh?” became a nationwide catchphrase when ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’ was released. This military action drama is based on the real-life retaliation to the 2016 Uri attack. Starring Vicky Kaushal as Major Vihaan Shergill of the Para (Special Forces), along with Yami Gautam, Paresh Rawal, Kirti Kulhari, and Mohit Raina in key roles, the film portrays the daring mission led by Shergill that became a defining moment in India’s military history.
‘Rang De Basanti’ is a coming-of-age political drama by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra that blends history with contemporary reality. It tells the story of a British film student who comes to India to document the lives of five freedom fighters. When she casts five young men in her film, their involvement awakens a sense of purpose, pushing them to take a stand against the corruption of their own time. Merging the spirit of past revolutions with present-day struggles, ‘Rang De Basanti’ remains a culturally iconic and critically acclaimed masterpiece.
