Independence Day 2025: 10 must-watch patriotic films from Swades to URI on the 79th celebration

As Independence Day approaches, many Indians celebrate not just with flag hoisting and parades, but also by watching films that showcase the country’s journey, courage, and unity. Bollywood has produced numerous such movies over the years—some set in historical times, others in modern-day India—but all share a common theme: love for the nation.

Lagaan (2001)

Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Lagaan is a period drama set in late 19th-century India under British rule. The story follows a small village burdened by high taxes (lagaan). When a cruel British officer challenges the villagers to a cricket match—with taxes waived if they win and tripled if they lose—they rise to the occasion. Led by Bhuvan (Aamir Khan), the villagers, who have never played cricket before, demonstrate courage, unity, and the spirit of standing up against injustice.

Swades (2004)

Another Gowariker film, Swades stars Shah Rukh Khan as Mohan Bhargava, a successful NASA scientist who returns to India to find his childhood caretaker. Initially disconnected from rural life, Mohan witnesses the villagers’ struggles with electricity, education, and social inequality, inspiring him to help. The film’s message about returning to one’s roots and serving the nation remains powerful today.

Rang De Basanti (2006)

Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Rang De Basanti sparked a youth movement upon its release. A British filmmaker casts a group of carefree Delhi students in a documentary about freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh. Initially indifferent, the students are transformed by personal tragedy and the courage of the revolutionaries, prompting them to take a stand against corruption.

Chak De! India (2007)

This sports drama, directed by Shimit Amin, stars Shah Rukh Khan as Kabir Khan, a former Indian hockey captain falsely accused of betrayal. He returns as coach of the Indian women’s hockey team, composed of players from diverse states with different cultural backgrounds. The movie emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and national pride, with the slogan “Chak De! India” becoming iconic.

Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)

Based on the life of Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena, one of India’s first female combat pilots during the 1999 Kargil War, the film stars Janhvi Kapoor. It chronicles Gunjan’s journey from aspiring pilot to breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated environment, highlighting her determination, courage, and heroism during the war.

Gandhi (1982)

Though not a Bollywood film, Richard Attenborough’s Gandhi is an epic biographical drama covering Mahatma Gandhi’s life—from his early days as a lawyer in South Africa to leading India’s non-violent freedom struggle. Ben Kingsley’s legendary performance earned multiple Oscars, including Best Picture, offering a profound insight into the power of truth and non-violence.

Airlift (2016)

Based on true events during Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in 1990, Airlift stars Akshay Kumar as Ranjit Katyal, a businessman who risks everything to evacuate over 170,000 stranded Indians. The film combines thrill and emotion, showing how one individual’s leadership and resourcefulness can save thousands.

Kesari (2019)

Akshay Kumar leads this retelling of the legendary Battle of Saragarhi, where 21 Sikh soldiers fought against thousands with unmatched valor.

URI: The Surgical Strike (2019)

A gripping action-drama based on India’s 2016 surgical strikes, with Vicky Kaushal delivering the unforgettable line, “How's Josh?”

Kesari Chapter 2 (2025)

Akshay Kumar’s historical courtroom drama on C. Sankaran Nair’s fight for justice after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, now streaming on Jio Hotstar after its April theatrical release.