Independence Day is a day of pride and courage and fills you with unexceptional patriotism. And, movies and shows have always been instrumental in helping the masses connect with this feeling, be it something as dramatic and thrilling as Main Hoon Na or something as serious and revolutionary as Mangal Pandey. Films have been a pillar in the fight for and the sustenance of independence and, what better time than right now to visit some recent gems that have added more glitz to the Independence Day movie list? These latest patriotic movies and shows have many different flavours but one thing is common – they celebrate the love that we have for our country in every vein of their being!
Here are the five best patriotic movies that one can watch on Independence Day that have won everyone’s hearts. Check out the list down below!
Best Patriotic Movies For Independence Day
Sardar Udham (2021)
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre is one of the most horrifying incidents in Indian history. Making that the driving force and the other atrocities of the British Raj, Sardar Udham is an award-winning Shoojit Sircar film that has won over everyone. Produced by Rising Sun Films in collaboration with Kino Works, it is a biographical drama based on the life of the freedom fighter Udham Singh from Punjab, who was responsible for the assassination of Michael O’Dwyer.
Vicky Kaushal played the titular role in the film along with Shaun Scott, Stephen Hogan, Amol Parashar, Banita Sandhu and Kirsty Averton in supporting roles. What sets the movie apart are its fantastic performances, especially from Kaushal, and the showcase of Singh’s gallant endeavours to right the wrongs that have taken place against his countrymen. It’s one of those Indian films to watch on Independence Day that will give you goosebumps, guaranteed!
Shershaah (2021)
Another biographical drama, Shershaah is about the Lion King aka Vikram Batra, who was martyred in the Kargil War. The Dharma Productions film is Vishnuvardhan’s Hindi directorial debut and is written by Sandeep Shrivastava. Sidharth Malhotra plays the titular character along with his twin brother Vishal Batra. Kiara Advani stars as his girlfriend Dimple Cheema.
What sets this movie apart is that the makers keep it based on the facts of the case instead of sensationalizing Batra’s life to be something that it is not. Plus, the emotional beats of the movie are top-notch and you can’t help but feel for Vikram and Dimple’s relationship, which is also the reason why it breaks your heart when Batra meets his heartbreaking fate. It’s a thoroughly engaging watch through and through. This is one of those patriotic movies of India that gets you emotional not just for its showcase of love for the country but also for its people.
RRR (2022)
An international hit, RRR swept the entire world off its feet with the epic action drama it was. An SS Rajamouli film, who wrote it with V Vijayendra Prasad, the film is a fictional story but is based on the real-life incidents of two Indian revolutionaries – Alluri Sitarama Raju and Komaram Bheem. We see the two fight against the British Raj and witness the undocumented period in the lives of these revolutionaries. The patriotic movie features N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Ram Charan, Ajay Devgn, Alia Bhatt, Shriya Saran, Samuthirakani, Ray Stevenson, Alison Doody, and Olivia Morris.
This is a complete NTR and Ram Charan film through and through and that is evident thanks to their fantastic chemistry and performances in the film. It’s also one of the reasons why you root for them from the moment that they meet and why this already inspirational story hits closer to home. Plus, the execution of the film is simply stunning – leave it to Rajamouli to give us a grand spectacle like no other!
Border (1997)
This epic war film is based on the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, specifically on the events of the Battle of Longewala. It’s one of the most influential movies of the generation and follows 120 soldiers who hold their posts throughout the night in the midst of a grisly and dangerous war before getting assistance from the Indian Army in the morning. From the performances, and the music to the heartwrenching showcase of the suffering of war, the film had everything and more to leave a scar on our hearts. Written and directed by J. P. Dutta, the patriotic movie stars Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Akshaye Khanna, Puneet Issar and Sudesh Berry.
Kesari (2019)
Written and directed by Anurag Singh, this war film, starring Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra in lead roles showcases the events leading up to the Battle of Saragarhi. It’s a film that will bring out the patriotism in you and leave you hungry for more as you see the heroism displayed in a time of crisis during the British Raj. The thundering performances and the technical aspects also add a layer of brilliance to a script that demands respect. Of course, it’s the real heroes who have created this sense of pride and seeing it on our screens in this film leaves us feeling what they are feeling, in a way.
83 (2021)
Directed by Kabir Khan and starring Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone in lead roles, this biographical sports drama film is based on the India national cricket team led by Kapil Dev during the 1983 Cricket World Cup, the film will leave you engrossed. Whether it be the stunning portrayal of Dev by Singh or the chemistry between him and Padukone, there’s tremendous energy in the film that makes it one of the most interesting patriotic movies. It’s entertaining through and through and the deft direction and editing make it an easy-breezy watch.
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Written and directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, this is one of those freedom fighters movies that never get boring regardless of how many times you watch it. Starring Ajay Devgn, Sushant Singh, D. Santosh, Akhilendra Mishra and Amrita Rao, the story follows legendary revolutionary Bhagat Singh as he fights back against the British for their atrocities. One of the best patriotic movies, this film shows restraint in its portrayal of the hero with Devgn’s portrayal being powerful without going overboard. Plus, the supporting characters are also fantastic, making this an impactful watch.
Ae Watan Mere Watan (2024)
Bringing to our screens the life of Usha Mehta who started an underground radio during the Quit India Movement, the film is riveting and rousing, especially because the base story is just so infectious. It’s heartening to see a woman taking a stand during such tough times and going against societal norms to unite the nation. Starring Sara Ali Khan, Alexx O’Nell and Emraan Hashmi, the film is a treat for those who like patriotic movies.
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
This is one of those new patriotic movies Bollywood has produced that have left everyone slack-jawed! Written and directed by Aditya Dhar, this fictionalised dramatisation of the retaliation to the 2016 Uri attack will leave you feeling pride for your countrymen’s spirit and courage. Starring Vicky Kaushal as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill, the film strikes a particular chord that you cannot ignore, especially because this is a situation that unfolded only a few years ago. You are left applauding the courage of the bravehearts who overcome their own fears to keep the rest of the country safe. Plus, Dhar’s direction is surprisingly restrained and it never goes overboard with the portrayal of these soldiers. It is definitely one of the best patriotic movies of India that have come out in recent years.
Gandhi (1982)
This 1982 epic biographical film is based on the life of Mahatma Gandhi and is a riveting watch from start to end. Encompassing his efforts to rid India of the British during the Independence Movement, the film is directed and produced by Richard Attenborough and stars Ben Kingsley as the titular patriot who changed the course of India’s history forever. The actor portrays Gandhi in a way that will stay in our minds and it is one of those rare patriotic movies of India that have struck a chord internationally as well.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2004)
Directed by legendary director Shyam Benegal, the movie depicts the life of Indian freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose in Nazi Germany and in Japanese-occupied Asia before subsequently forming the Azad Hind Fauj. With a soundtrack by A.R. Rahman, this is one of those films that is a must on an Independence Day movie list! Controversial at the time, it provides a showcase of the beloved freedom fighter’s life that takes us back to those difficult days. Starring Sachin Khedekar as the titular character, don’t let the runtime deter you from experiencing this movie – it’s peppered with interesting nuggets of information that might showcase Bose in a new light.
Tiger 3 (2023)
In this action thriller film starring Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi, we explore Tiger and Zoya’s connection as they fight off the evil plans of her former mentor. This is a mass entertainer unlike the other patriotic movies in this list, but one that keeps you hooked till the end. The love story between the two protagonists makes us root for them throughout, adding a much-needed emotional beat that cuts through the tense action sequences.
The Ghazi Attack (2017)
Directed by Sankalp Reddy, this war film tells the fictional events of the sinking of the PNS Ghazi during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The underwater thriller is a compelling and riveting watch, with each scene dripping with anticipation as you wait with bated breath, wondering whether or not the brave heroes onboard the submarine will make it out alive or not. Starring Rana Daggubati, Atul Kulkarni, Kay Kay Menon, Taapsee Pannu, Rahul Singh and Satya Dev, this film is definitely one of the best patriotic movies of India.
Swades (2004)
Ashutosh Gowariker’s drama film is beloved for many different reasons. One of the best patriotic movies of India, the film showcases an Indian expatriate’s struggle to see change in his childhood village where he goes to search for his nanny. The film has many moments that will make you emotional, whether it be the performances or the impactful and empathetic storyline filled with grassroots realism, the movie impacts you in more ways than one. Plus, add to that the fantastic performances and you have a film that will stay in your mind and heart rent-free. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Gayatri Joshi, Kishori Ballal and others.
Pathaan (2023)
In this action-thriller film starring Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, John Abraham, Dimple Kapadia and Ashutosh Rana we get an entertainer like no other. It follows an exiled RAW agent who works with an ISI agent to bring down a terrorist only to find more challenges on the way. The film, unlike other patriotic movies on the list, is thoroughly engaging from start to end and its patriotic themes are not lost on viewers for even a minute.
Rang De Basanti (2006)
Patriotism in our own times, this film struck a chord with the new generation like no other. Featuring heartfelt performances from Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Atul Kulkarni, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, Alice Patten and Soha Ali Khan, the film is a memorable experience that will move you to tears. Following a British film student’s quest to create a documentary on the Indian freedom fighters which instead results in the cast of the film taking up arms against the corrupt practices of the government, this film is a cult classic that hits you when you least expect it. This one is thought-provoking and entertaining, wrapped in an emotional bundle. This also goes on the list of best patriotic movies of India.
Lakshya (2004)
Written and directed by Farhan Akhtar and starring Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan and Preity Zinta, the film follows a lazy, entitled and aimless young man who joins the army in hopes of maturing right before the Kargil War breaks out. The film is an extremely relatable watch, especially in its showcase of Karan Shergill’s life as he goes from an aimless boy to a man with a purpose. It’s extremely inspiring as well and leaves you emotional by the time you reach the end.
Maidaan (2024)
Amit Sharma’s biographical sports drama film follows Syed Abdul Rahim the coach and manager of the Indian national football team and is inspirational in many different ways. Although not a war film, it brings out patriotism in a different way wherein our country is taken to the heights of respect at the 1962 Asian Games, where they win against South Korea. Starring Ajay Devgn in the titular role, the fantastic performances are what keep this movie grounded, making it one of those patriotic movies that stays with you long after it is over.
Lagaan (2001)
One of the best patriotic movies of India, this Ashutosh Gowariker periodic musical is a moving experience. The film follows inhabitants of a village in Central India who are challenged to a game of cricket by the Britishers in a bid to forgo paying extremely high land taxes. From the performances to the execution, this film pierces your heart with its heartfelt portrayals and you feel like you are also going through the motions of a difficult time with each and every villager. The movie is more than just that – it is an experience that has the capability to alter your mood for the better. The film stars Aamir Khan, Gracy Singh, Rachel Shelley and Paul Blackthorne.
LOC Kargil (2003)
In this historical war film by J. P. Dutta and starring Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Sunny Deol, Sunil Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan, we see the Kargil War unfolding right in front of our eyes. Although its length might be a deterrent, this patriotic movie has very realistic battle sequences that will leave you engaged.
Pippa (2023)
Showcasing the life of Captain Balram Singh Mehta of India’s 45 Cavalry regiment, this war film, taking place during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, brings forth the personal and professional growth of Singh. There’s beauty in the film’s handling of the character while it showcases the horrific atrocities bestowed upon people during wartime. Ishaan Khatter is a compelling protagonist who sells every moment of his role with ease.
Best Patriotic Series For Independence Day
Rocket Boys (2022 – 2023)
Showcasing patriotism of a different kind, this web series showcases the lives of nuclear physicist Homi J. Bhabha and physicist & astronomer Vikram Sarabhai as they strive to see India as a superpower going toe to toe with the first-world countries. Created by Nikkhil Advani and directed by Abhay Pannu, the series stars Jim Sarbh and Ishwak Singh in titular roles along with Regina Cassandra, Saba Azad, Dibyendu Bhattacharya and Rajit Kapur. With two seasons showcasing the talents who take India forward and set it apart from other countries, this series is heartfelt and inspiring and will make you proud of the people who strive to make our motherland a better place every day.
Indian Police Force (2024)
In this action-thriller series starring Sidharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty Kundra and Vivek Oberoi, we follow Delhi police officer Kabir Malik trying to ward off the evil plans of terrorist Zarar. The high-octane action sequences are a treat to watch and although the storyline is predictable there’s something about watching the bravehearts in our police force giving it their all to save the citizens from harm.
Hack: Crimes Online (2023)
Bringing forth shocking crimes in cyberspace, this film is a thrilling journey of ACP Ashutosh Bhatnagar who gives it his all to protect his countrymen. The stories are chilling with a patriotic touch to them and will compel you to move to the next episode instantly!
Rakshak – India’s Braves (2023)
This action series brings forth the lives of India’s brave men who give it their all to protect their countrymen. The pace of this series is fantastic and you are left eager to learn what happens next. The direction and performances are also great with Barun Sobti leaving a lasting impression.
Naam Namak Nishan (2024)
This is an upcoming TV show that will definitely catch your eye. Following the lives of young cadets in the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, the series will be an uplifting and empowering journey through the lives of these young men whose one dream is to fight for their country.
These are some of the movies to watch on Independence Day, along with a few TV shows, that will imbue a sense of pride for our great country and its people. Let us know your favourite in the comments below!
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