Bollywood has long been a medium to celebrate patriotism, with iconic films like Lagaan (2001) and Rang De Basanti (2006) becoming timeless favourites, especially on national holidays like Republic Day and Independence Day. In recent years, cinematic milestones such as Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) and Shershaah (2021) have joined the league of patriotic classics, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
However, patriotism in Bollywood isn't confined to just these celebrated blockbusters. There are several underrated gems that deserve a spot on your watchlist for their unique take on patriotism and their ability to ignite a sense of national pride. Here's a look at five such films that may have flown under the radar but are worth your time.
Sam Bahadur (ZEE5)
Vicky Kaushal delivered a captivating performance in Meghna Gulzar's Sam Bahadur (2023), a riveting biopic of India’s first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the film masterfully portrays Manekshaw’s courage and strategic brilliance. Although its release coincided with the massive success of Ranbir Kapoor’s Animal, Sam Bahadur stands tall as a cinematic tribute to an unsung hero.
Main Atal Hoon (ZEE5)
Main Atal Hoon (2024) offered an authentic and heartfelt portrayal of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Pankaj Tripathi, in one of his first leading roles, brilliantly captured Vajpayee’s poetic soul, political wisdom, and unwavering commitment to India’s progress. This film celebrates patriotism not as a pursuit of power but as a selfless drive for collective growth.
Article 370 (Netflix)
The Yami Gautam-starrer Article 370 (2024) delves into the contentious revocation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. While the film sparked polarising debates, it remains a gripping watch, delivering high emotional impact and a nuanced take on a critical chapter in modern Indian history.
Ae Watan Mere Watan (Prime Video)
Sara Ali Khan's Ae Watan Mere Watan (2024) takes a refreshing approach to the independence struggle by focusing on the everyday individuals who played pivotal roles in India’s freedom movement. The film shines a light on unsung heroes rather than established historical figures, offering a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by ordinary citizens.
Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (ZEE5)
Randeep Hooda made his directorial debut with Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (2024), a hard-hitting biopic of the controversial freedom fighter Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. Hooda not only directed but also delivered a powerful performance in the titular role, bringing to life a complex and often-debated figure in India’s independence movement. This over-three-hour film is both bold and thought-provoking.
These films may not have garnered the limelight of mainstream patriotic hits, but they each tell powerful stories that resonate deeply with the spirit of India. Give them a chance, and they might just leave a lasting impression on your heart.