To mark this occasion, the government has launched the “Har Gar Tiranga” campaign this year, urging citizens to proudly display the national flag at their homes.

It aims to foster a spirit of patriotism in line with this year’s theme, “Viksit Bharat,” which encapsulates the vision for an evolved India by 2047, coinciding with the centenary (100 years) of independence. In the spirit of this celebration, many individuals also look out to watch movies that evoke patriotism and honour the sacrifices made for the nation’s freedom.

Notably, Indian cinema has produced a plethora of powerful and impactful narratives that not only entertain but also educate audiences about the nation’s rich history and freedom struggles. Marking this occasion with films that evoke national pride can foster a sense of unity and memory among citizens, making it the perfect time to watch movies that capture the spirit of our nation’s struggle for freedom.

Celebrate India’s 78th Independence Day with 10 must-watch patriotic movies:

Whether you are planning a movie marathon with family or looking for inspiration to reflect on the significance of this day, watching patriotic films can provide a deeper understanding of India’s journey.

Here, we present ten must-watch movies that encapsulate the essence of patriotism, sacrifice, and the quest for freedom, making them perfect companions for this Independence Day celebration.

1. Border (1997)

Border (1997)

Set in 1971, this landmark Hindi film captures the story of the Pakistani Army and Indian soldiers engaged in the 1971 Battle of Longewala (the India-Pakistan War of 1971), where the Indian battalion, consisting of 150 soldiers, faced the Pakistani Army, equipped with 2000 armed soldiers and had tanks. Showcasing the bravery of Indian soldiers and their sacrifices, this movie is a must-watch for military history enthusiasts.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime and YouTube

2. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001)

Lagaan, set during British colonial rule, is a story of Indian resilience against oppression. The villagers, already burdened by exorbitant taxes, challenge Captain Andrew Russell to a cricket match as a means of resistance against their oppressive rulers. The film symbolises unity and resistance, illustrating how sports can serve as a powerful platform for social change and how, through cricket, the villagers fought for their rights, transcending social divides and fostering a sense of unity and community. Streaming on: YouTube

3. The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)

Narrating the story of Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary who fought for India’s independence alongside fellow Hindustan Socialist Republican Association members, the movie traces his life from childhood, witnessing the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, to his death on 24 March 1931. The film not only serves as a tribute to Singh’s legacy but also sheds light on the broader context of the Indian independence movement, making it a significant cinematic portrayal of this era in history.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime and YouTube

4. Swades (2004)

Swadesh explores grassroots development in modern-day rural India. The story follows NASA project manager Mohan Bhargava returning to his village, where he reconnects with his roots and the struggles faced by the local community. Contrasting the advanced world of NASA with the diverse rural India, the film paints a beautiful picture of India and the journey of self-discovery, highlighting the themes of identity, belonging, and social responsibility, thereby inspiring viewers to recognise the enduring connections between individuals and their heritage.

Streaming on: Netflix

5. Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)

Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005)

Mangal Pandey: The Rising is a historical epic centered on the the First War of Independence in 1857, which the Britishers called Sepoy Mutiny. The film follows Mangal Pandey, a sepoy in the British East India Company, as he witnesses the injustices faced by his fellow countrymen. His dream of freedom sparks a rebellion against colonial oppression. Based on true events, the film highlights the struggle for independence and the growth of a nation fighting against imperialism.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime and Jio Cinema

6. Raazi (2018)

Raazi, inspired by Harinder Singh Sikka’s book Calling Sehmat, is an espionage thriller that follows Hidayat Khan, an Indian freedom fighter, as he makes his daughter, Sehmat, a secret agent. The film focuses on Sehmat’s undercover mission, where she marries a Pakistani army officer during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, to gather vital intelligence. Highlighting themes of sacrifice, love, and patriotism, the film is a gripping watch.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

7. Kesari (2019)

This war drama depicts the 1897 Battle of Saragarhi, focussing on Havildar Ishar Singh, who led a platoon of 21 Sikhs against 10,000 Afghans to defend the North-West Frontier Province. Considered one of the greatest last stands in history, the film emphasises the themes of courage, brotherhood, and sacrifice, serving as a tribute to the valour of Indian soldiers.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

8. Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019)

The historical drama tells the story of Rani Lakshmibai, the queen of Jhansi, who led the charge against British forces during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Despite facing overwhelming odds—Sadashiv Rao, a rival claimant to the throne, and Gangadar Rao’s death—the East India Company sought to annex Jhansi, claiming it had no male ruler. Rani Lakshmi Bai, as now famously known, took the throne herself and refused to surrender. Leading her troops with determination to fight for her kingdom’s independence, this film serves as a testament to her legacy, as she became a symbol of resistance and a true hero of the Indian independence movement.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

9. Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) 

Uri is a gripping military action film that recounts the true events surrounding the Indian Army’s surgical strike against suspected militant launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Being divided into five chapters, the film follows the 11 pivotal events that led to the covert operation, which was carried out in retaliation for the deadly Uri attack on September 18, 2016, where 17 Indian soldiers were killed. Highlighting the bravery and strategic planning of the armed forces, the film is a contemporary classic that resonates with audiences today for its patriotic spirit and its ability to showcase the sacrifices made by the Indian Army in protecting the nation.

Streaming on: Zee 5

10. Sardar Udham (2021)

Indian revolutionary Udham Singh, who is best known for assassinating Michael O. Dwyer in London, was involved in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre on April 13, 1919. This biographical drama depicts how Udham Singh survived the massacre on the day of Baisakhi, where about 400 people were killed and 1000 were injured, and how he sought revenge for those who died. The story highlights his emotional and political journey and showcases the personal sacrifices he made in the fight for India’s independence.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

Don’t Miss Out: Here’s a list of more patriotic movies to watch, in addition to those previously mentioned

• Gandhi (1982)
• Lakshya (2004)
• Bose (2004)
• Rang De Basanti (2006)
• Chak De! India (2007)
• Airlift (2016)
• Shershaah (2021)
• Pippa (2023)
• Maidaan (2024)
• Ae Watan Mere Watan (2024)
• Fighter (2024)