Indian patriotic movies are one of the most loved, watched, and, at times, critiqued. Right from the time of Mother India, Indian patriotic movies have proved to be impactful on the Indian audience. While you celebrate the weekend with our Republic Day, we thought, why not curate some of the best yet underrated Indian patriotic movies for you?
Most recently, patriotic films in India were seen to present a historicist view of certain events, and that really made us miss films like Rang De Basanti, Chak De India, and more. If you are also baffled about good Indian patriotic movies, we have got your back.
Here are 9 underrated Indian patriotic movies for you to watch this Republic Day.
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Hey Ram
Simultaneously made in Tamil and Hindi, Hey Ram is one of the most critically acclaimed Indian patriotic movies. Based on the partition of India and Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, the film portrays the unsettling social conditions during those times. Starred by Shah Rukh Khan, Naseeruddin Shah, Kamal Hasan, and Rani Mukherjee, this film to date is one of the most underrated Indian patriotic movies. With a very captivating plot and a perfect background score, Hey Ram will surely leave you with a sense of patriotism.
Swades
Swades is one of the best Shah Rukh Khan films, be it with the plot, craftsmanship, or music. This list would have been incomplete without mentioning this movie. Revolving around the life of a NASA scientist who returns to his village and develops it, Swades is a reminder that the nation’s progress is far more gratifying than personal achievements. Most of us have definitely cherished this movie, and it won’t be a bad idea to rewatch the film on Republic Day.
Chittagong
Surya Sen was one of the most courageous freedom fighters in India, and director Bedabrata Pain’s attempt to illustrate his valour in Chittagong is praiseworthy. This 2012 Indian Patriotic Movie has some of the gems of Indian movies, right from Manoj Bajpai and Nawazuddin Siddiqui to Rajkumar Rao and Jaideep Ahlawat. You cannot miss this film, as it shows Surya Sen’s endeavour for the country’s freedom with his students of the Chittagong Mutiny!
Also, Read:
Films To Rouse Your Patriotism
Egaro(Eleven)
Based in pre-independence Bengal, Egaro is a Bengali film showcasing the rise of communal nationalism through a football game. It encapsulates the formation of the Mohun Bagan club as they played against the Yorkshire Regiment in 1911. Directed by Arun Roy, the film represents characters from every background of society and their united effort to fight against unjust British rule. The love for the game, coupled with a spirit of nationalism, will surely keep you hooked!
Sam Bahadur
The 2023 biographical war film is a stunner with the courage of India’s first field marshal, Sam Manekshaw, and Vicky Kaushal’s acting. Vicky Kaushal has carried on with his incredible craft, be it in Sardar Udham or Sam Bahadur. The film portrays the sacrifices and fearlessness of the Indian army as they protect the nation from foreign attacks. Sam Manekshaw has served the nation for over four decades, and this Meghna Gulzar film is the best tribute to his valour!
Indian
Kamal Hasan’s love for his motherland can be aptly explained in this underrated movie. S. Shankar’s direction, blended with the craft of Kamal Hasan & Manisha Koirala, makes Indian a stunning Indian patriotic movie. This Tamil film features a patriot who fights against the corrupt practices of the nation and takes it closer to the dream idea of India as a nation. Indian was released in Hindi as Hindustani and is an absolute must-watch.
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Based on the life of the “Flying Sikh,” Bhaag Milkha Bhaag not only portrays the greatness of an Athlete but also the hardships that many people like him had to face during the partition of India. The way Milkha Singh battles against his horrendous past and emerges as the greatest athlete is depicted stunningly. Farhan Akhtar’s craft was commendable, whether with his on-screen presence or his transformations for the film.
Kya Dilli Kya Lahore
This critically acclaimed film is one of the most unconventional Indian Patriotic movies with its representation of patriotism. When a Pakistani soldier accidentally crosses the border and captures an Indian soldier, the plot becomes more complicated. Contrasting to other India-Pakistan movies, this film depicts the humanity, togetherness, and fragility of the hatred that these nations share. Directed by Vijay Raaz, this film is a must-watch for Republic Day.
Kesari
The 2019 film is one of the finest Indian Patriotic Movies, encapsulating an unheard yet crucial historical event. Starred by Akshay Kumar, this movie revolves around the 21 soldiers of the Sikh regiment posted at the Saragari Fort as they fight fearlessly against 10,000 Afghan tribesmen. The anecdotes of their bravery and valiance, with a perfect background score, will undoubtedly give you goosebumps as you witness history in this film.
Let us know in the comments below which is your go-to Indian Patriotic Movie, and let’s celebrate this Republic Day in a filmy way!
PS: Please don’t mention KRK’s Deshdrohi in the comments!