The 76th Republic Day is around the corner, and the excitement is in the air. As we gear up to celebrate on Sunday, January 26, why not get into the spirit by binge-watching some patriotic films? Here's a list of must-watch movies to honour the occasion:
1. Lagaan - Prime Video
Set in colonial India, this epic tale blends unity, determination and cricket. With unforgettable tracks like Ghanan Ghanan and Radha Kaise Na Jale, this film is an emotional and musical treat.
2. Border - Prime Video
Packed with action, emotions and iconic dialogues like, “Pehli goli woh chalayega ... aur aakhri goli hum,” this war drama is unmissable for any Bollywood fan. The JP Dutta classic features Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff and Akshaye Khanna.
3. The Legend of Bhagat Singh - Prime Video
Ajay Devgn's portrayal of Bhagat Singh is nothing short of iconic. From soul-stirring songs like Mera Rang De Basanti to powerful lines like “Aap namak ka haq ada karo ... main mitti ka haq ada karta hoon,” this film is a must-watch for all Indians.
4. Shershaah - Prime Video
This biographical drama, about Captain Vikram Batra's life during the Kargil War, is both inspiring and heartwarming. Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani's on-screen chemistry adds an emotional touch to the gripping narrative.
5. Uri: The Surgical Strike - Zee5
Vicky Kaushal's “How's the josh?” became a nationwide slogan. This fictionalised representation of India's response to the 2016 Uri attack is packed with action and patriotism.
6. Karma - Zee5
A 1986 classic by Subhash Ghai, Karma features Dilip Kumar as a retired jailer leading a group of reformed criminals against a terrorist, played by Anupam Kher. The film is a gripping tale of justice and redemption.
7. Tirangaa - Zee5
This 1993 cult classic features Raaj Kumar and Nana Patekar as they take on corruption and terrorism. With memorable performances and fiery dialogues, this one is an old-school gem.
8. Rang De Basanti - Netflix
A perfect blend of past and present, this film with Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Atul Kulkarni and Soha Ali Khan is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Released on Republic Day 2006, it is still a crowd favourite.
9. Swadesi - Netflix
Shah Rukh Khan shines as an NRI who returns to India to make a difference in his village. This 2004 masterpiece by Ashutosh Gowariker is a heartfelt ode to the power of change and selflessness.
10. Raazi - Prime Video
In this Meghna Gulzar directorial, Alia Bhatt plays Sehmat, a RAW agent who marries into a Pakistani military family to serve her country. With brilliant performances by Vicky Kaushal and Jaideep Ahlawat, this one's a nail-biter.