Independence Day 2026: From Shershaah to Uri: The Surgical Strike, top 8 movies to watch on 80th Independence Day

Independence Day is a time to celebrate India's freedom, honour the sacrifices of its heroes and reflect on the country's journey. Along with flag-hoisting ceremonies and patriotic songs, watching an inspiring film can be a meaningful way to mark August 15.

From stories about India's freedom struggle to films highlighting the courage of soldiers and the spirit of patriotism, Bollywood has produced several memorable movies over the years.

Rang De Basanti

Rang De Basanti blends the story of India's freedom fighters with the lives of modern young Indians. The film explores patriotism, friendship, social responsibility and the desire to bring about change.

Shershaah
Based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, Shershaah tells the story of the army officer's service during the Kargil War. The film focuses on his bravery, leadership and ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

Uri: The Surgical Strike
Uri: The Surgical Strike depicts the events surrounding India's 2016 surgical strikes. The film combines military action with a story of determination, planning and courage.

Kesari
Kesari follows a group of Sikh soldiers who stand against a much larger enemy force. The film showcases bravery, sacrifice and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.

Sam Bahadur
Sam Bahadur is based on the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, one of India's most respected military leaders. The film highlights his military career, leadership and role during significant moments in India's history.

Main Vaapas Aaunga
Starring Diljit Dosanjh, Sharvari, Vedang Raina and Naseeruddin Shah, the film is set during the Partition and explores how the division of the country affected the lives of ordinary people.

Swades
Shah Rukh Khan portrays Mohan Bhargava, an NRI scientist employed at NASA who travels back to India and becomes increasingly connected to the challenges faced by a rural village. His personal homecoming gradually evolves into a larger story about education, rural development, access to electricity and the responsibility to create meaningful change.

Raazi
Meghna Gulzar’s Raazi presents patriotism through the story of an unsung individual whose contribution remains largely hidden from the world. Alia Bhatt plays Sehmat, a young Indian woman who marries into a Pakistani military family and secretly gathers crucial information for India during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.