Ae Watan Mere Watan, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar to Sardar Udham: 7 must-watch Bollywood movies on Indian Freedom Fighters struggle

In the last few decades, Bollywood has showcased stories of its unsung heroes, who changed the course of India’s history with their unparalleled contribution to freedom struggle. Such films have moved us to tears and sparked patriotic feelings in us. One such addition to these movies is Sara Ali Khan’s recent release Ae Watan Mere Watan. The actress brings to us the story of Usha Mehta, who ran a secret radio to fight for India’s independence. As the movie is garnering positive response, here’s a look at 7 Bollywood movies that showcased stories of freedom fighters.

Bollywood movies based on Indian freedom fighter’s struggle

Ae Watan Mere Watan

The Sara Ali Khan-starrer is based on the life of Usha Mehta, a young woman who started an underground radio station to spread the message of unity during the Quit India movement in 1942. Directed by Kannan Iyer, the movie also stars Emraan Hashmi.

Swantantrya Veer Savarkar

Randeep Hooda essays the role of freedom fighter, politician, lawyer, writer and social reformer Vinayak Damodar Savarkar in the latest movie. It revolves around the life of freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, who chooses the path of violence unlike Mahatma Gandhi for freedom and how his ideologies turn out to be a threat for Britishers.

Sardar Udham

Directed by Shoojit Sircar, this biopic stars Vicky Kaushal as freedom fighter Sher “Udham” Singh. Inspired by the revolutionary politics of Bhagat Singh, Sardar Udham played a significant role in the Indian Independence Movement. He is notably known for his assassination of the British officer Michael O’Dwyer who was responsible for the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre in 1919.

Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi

The film starring Kangana Ranaut in the lead role tells the story of Rani Lakshmi Bai of Jhansi. She played a key role in the Revolt of 1857. Known for her fierce attitude, she refused to bow down against the ruthless demands of Britishers.

The Legend of Bhagat Singh

Starring Ajay Devgn, this biopic chronicles the life of legendary freedom fighter Shaheed Bhagat Singh. His valour is etched in Indian history as he was hanged for murdering British police officer John Saunders in 1931, at the age of only 23.

Mangal Pandey: The Rising

Starring Aamir Khan, the historical biographical drama film was based on the life of Indian soldier Mangal Pandey. He played a significant role in the Indian rebellion against British colonial rule, also known as the First War of Independence. Helmed by Ketan Mehta, the film starred Aamir Khan, Ameesha Patel and Rani Mukerji in the lead roles.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero

This biographical film was directed by Shyam Bengal. It portrays the life of prominent nationalist Subhas Chandra Bose and the eventual formation of the Azad Hind Fauj. The film has an ensemble cast with Sachin Khedekar playing Bose.

Also Read: Ae Watan Mere Watan: 5 reasons why this period drama starring Sara Ali Khan as freedom fighter Usha Mehta shouldn’t be missed