9 films that celebrate India’s Independence Day spirit

ET Online

Aug 6, 2025

Rang De Basanti (2006)

A group of students awakens to patriotism while filming a documentary on India’s freedom fighters. The film masterfully parallels history with modern activism.

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The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)

The Legend of Ajay Devgn stars as the fearless Bhagat Singh, portraying his ideological clarity, sacrifice, and undying love for a free India.

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Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)

Aamir Khan’s fierce portrayal of Mangal Pandey traces the 1857 revolt that lit the first spark of India’s independence movement.

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Lagaan (2001)

Though fictional, this epic tale set in colonial India showcases rural resistance to British oppression, turning a cricket match into a cry for dignity.

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Sardar (1993)

This biopic on Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel explores his pivotal role in uniting India post-independence, driven by grit, diplomacy, and vision.

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Gandhi (1982)

Ben Kingsley’s Oscar-winning portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi chronicles India’s non-violent battle against British colonialism with remarkable depth and authenticity.

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Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero (2004)

Directed by Shyam Benegal, this film highlights Bose’s alternative path to freedom through the Indian National Army and his bold defiance of British rule.

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Chittagong (2012)

Based on real events, this underrated gem focuses on the Chittagong Uprising led by schoolteacher Surya Sen against British forces in 1930s Bengal.

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Raazi (2018)

A patriotic thriller with a twist, Alia Bhatt plays a young Indian spy who risks everything for her country on the eve of the 1971 war.

Image Source: imdb

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