History isn’t always learned — sometimes, it’s felt. Through the rattle of swords, the silence of sacrifice, and the thunder of rebellion, Indian cinema has turned dusty chapters into gripping stories. These five historical films don’t just tell us what happened — they make sure we never forget how it felt.
Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)
When Om Raut’s Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior hit screens on a January day in 2020, it wasn’t just a movie; it felt like a surge of national pride. This film isn’t just about history; it’s a full-throated cry of courage. Ajay Devgn embodies the legendary Maratha warrior Tanhaji Malusare with a performance that feels like pure valor brought to life. You’re right there in the thick of the action, feeling the weight of the battle for Kondhana fort against the Mughals.
And with Saif Ali Khan playing a brilliantly cunning adversary, the film offers a compelling mix of raw power and strategic brilliance. It’s the kind of story that reminds you of heroes who fought with everything they had, not for personal glory, but for something bigger than themselves.
Bajirao Mastani (2015)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani, which arrived in December 2015, was less a film and more a grand spectacle of a bygone era. Set in the 18th century, it immerses you in the passionate and complex world of the Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I and his deep connection with Mastani, a warrior princess. Ranveer Singh’s portrayal captures the inner conflict of a powerful leader torn between his duty and his heart.
Alongside him, Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra bring incredible depth to the women who shaped his life. The sheer visual beauty of the film, from its opulent sets to its rich costumes, makes the historical setting feel tangible. It’s a story of love that defied norms and the heavy sacrifices that often come with great courage and conviction.
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Rajkumar Santoshi’s The Legend of Bhagat Singh, released in June 2002, doesn’t just tell you about a revolutionary; it lets you feel his unwavering spirit. Ajay Devgn’s intense performance gets under the skin of Bhagat Singh, exploring not just his actions but the powerful ideals that drove him. The film has a raw, unflinching quality, making you understand the fierce patriotism that fueled India’s fight for independence. It’s a reminder that true change often comes from deep conviction and the willingness to stand up for what you believe in, no matter the cost.
Sardar Udham (2021)
Shoojit Sircar’s Sardar Udham, which premiered in October 2021, takes a more hushed, profound approach to history. It’s not about grand battles but about the quiet, enduring impact of a single, devastating event: the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Udham Singh is remarkable in its restraint, showing a man carrying the weight of that tragedy within him.
The film’s deliberate pace and muted tones allow the gravity of history to settle upon the viewer, making it a deeply moving experience. It’s a powerful example of how cinema can explore the long shadows of the past and the quiet determination for justice.
Chittagong (2012)
Bedabrata Pain’s Chittagong, released in October 2012, shines a light on a less widely known but incredibly inspiring chapter of India’s struggle for freedom. It tells the story of a daring uprising in 1930 led by a schoolteacher, Surya Sen, and a group of his young students who took on the might of the British Empire. Manoj Bajpayee delivers a compelling and deeply human performance as Surya Sen, the quiet force behind this courageous act.
Unlike some of the more bombastic historical films, Chittagong whispers its tale of defiance, proving that even seemingly small acts of bravery can echo through history. The film’s critical acclaim, including a National Award, underscores its importance in remembering these often-overlooked stories.
These Films Aren’t Just Movies —They’re Memories
These aren’t your average costume dramas. These are stories with teeth. They challenge, inspire, and linger in the gut long after the screen fades to black. Because they don’t just recreate history — they revive it.
So, whether you’re watching for the battles, the emotions, or the echoes of truth, let these films remind you that history is not a thing of the past. It’s a legacy we live every day.
Written by – Subham Choudhary