Independence Day Weekend: Watch 7 Films On Indian History

In recent times, India's rich political landscape has cultivated an appetite for stories rooted in reality. Cinema has emerged as a potential tool for Indian filmmakers to offer audiences a unique glimpse into history.  While the awe-inspiring saga of Maurh ignites patriotic fervour, the gritty The Kashmir Files Unreported sheds light on a brutal episode from India's past. These unconventional narratives meld impactful truths with historical accuracy. 

Here's a list of heart-wrenching sagas that unveil forgotten chapters of Indian history for you to explore this weekend ahead of India's 76th Independence Day.

1. The Kashmir Files Unreported, ZEE5

Weaving together real-life anecdotes, survivor testimonials, and archived footage, the film encapsulates the events, errors, crimes, and circumstances culminating in the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the valley during the 1990s. The series further examines the backdrop that led to the abrogation of Article 370 and its present-day ramifications for Kashmir. The series will be available on ZEE5 on August 11, 2023.

2. The Ghazi Attack, Amazon Prime Video

Set in 1971 during escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, The Ghazi Attack navigates the shadowy waters of politics and war. Pakistan's secretive mission aims to strike India's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, seeking dominance over the Bay of Bengal. However, their intentions collide with the resolve of the Indian submarine INS Karanj. The exhilarating war drama can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

3. Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, Disney + Hotstar

The film chronicles the valorous exploits of Tanhaji Malusare, a military leader in the Maratha army. He leads the battle to capture the strategically vital Kondhana fort guarded by Rajput chieftain Udaybhan Rathod. The film highlights bravery, sacrifice, and a fateful night in the history of India. It is currently streaming on Disney+.

4. Maurh, ZEE5

Set in pre-partition Punjab, Maurh revolves around the extraordinary life of Jeona Maurh, a determined Punjabi villager. Jeona's unrelenting quest for justice and redemption unfolds against the backdrop of colonial British rule. The gripping narrative immerses viewers in the socio-political landscape of Punjab. This captivating historical drama is now available on ZEE5.

5. Manikarnika, Amazon Prime Video

The historical action drama revolves around the queen of Jhansi, who poses a fight against the East India Company's bid to annex her kingdom, which transforms into a fierce revolution against British rule. The powerful story can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

6. Rocket Boys, Sony LIV

The series follows the lives of Homi J. Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai. The story builds upon the two scientists' camaraderie, selflessness, and unwavering resolve, culminating in India's inaugural rocket launch. The series serves as a symbol of India's transformation, reflecting its emergence into a fresh era following the turmoil of war.

7. Kesari, Amazon Prime Video

The film unravels the sequence of events that led to the Battle of Saragarhi, where 21 Jat Sikh soldiers from the 36th Sikh Regiment of the British Indian Army fought a formidable force of 10,000 Afridi and Orakzai Pashtun tribesmen in the year 1897. The historical drama covers an unseen and unspoken chapter of India's history.

These captivating narratives promise to impart profound historical insights and resonate deeply within you with a sense of patriotism.

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