Indian historical films: Indian history is filled with brave stories of gallant heroes who fought their ways against their opponents with great valour and dignity. Many Indian historical kings are known for their significant reign which led their subjects to prosperity. Here are some must watch Indian historical films that articulates the history of India in a beautiful manner.
From the love saga of Bajirao Mastani to the fateful triumph of King Ashoka over Kalinga, Indian cinema has beautifully portrayed the history of India in its films. With enormous sets, traditional costumes and large armies, the cinema has attempted to provide a real-life experience of the Indian ancient era to its audience, although not always historically accurate.
Here are some Indian historical films that have made their audience relive the glory of various historical rulers:
Jodhaa Akbar
The film follows the love story of Mughal Emperor Akbar (Hrithik Roshan) and Rajput princess Jodha Bai (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan). The film also presents a dramatic characterisation of political agendas between rulers and their subjects on how they conspired to acclaim power. Jodhaa Akbar also features actors Sonu Sood as Jodha's brother Sujamal, Ila Arun as Maham Anga and uses the voice of Amitabh Bachchan as the narrator.
Padmaavat
Despite all the controversy around it, the film managed to release in theatres and had been received positively by the audience. Padmaavat is based on the historical epic poem by sufi poet Malik Muhammed Jayasi. The story revolves around Rani Padmavati of Chittor (Deepika Padukone) who attracts the attention of Khilji ruler Alauddin Khilji (Ranveer singh), a tyrannical sultan who wants to achieve one look of hers smitten by the praises of her beauty. The film also includes actor Shahid Kapoor as Padmavati's husband Maharawal Ratan Singh.
Bajirao Mastani
The film traces the love story of Maratha Peshwa Bajirao (Ranveer Singh) and illegitimate daughter of king Chhatrasal, Mastani (Deepika Padukone). Their union is condemned by Peshwa’s family who conspires to get the two separated. However not historically correct, the film concludes as both of the lovers die in the end owing to their separation. The film also features Priyanka Chopra as Peshwa Bajirao's first wife Kashbai.
Tanhaji
Starring actors Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Kajol, Neha Sharma, Luke Kenny and Sharad Kelkar, the film revolves around Maratha warrior Tanhaji (Ajay Devgn) who fought the Mughal invaders led by Emperor Aurangzeb (Luke Kenny) bravely after they captured the Kondhana Fort in an attempt to reclaim it. The film is directed by Om Raut.
Panipat
2019-film Panipat traces the story of Maratha ruler Sadashivrao Bhau (Arjun Kapoor) who prepares for battle as Afghan king Ahmad Shah Abdali (Sanjay Dutt) declares war. The film is based on the third battle of Panipat fought between Marathas and Afghan rulers in 1761. Panipat also stars actor Kriti Sanon as Parvati Bai.
Mohenjo Daro
Mohenjo Daro is set in the ancient era of Indian history depicting the ancient city of Mohenjo Daro where a poor farmer Sarman (Hrithik Roshan) takes revenge on tyrant Maham (Kabir Bedi) who rules the city. Director Ashutosh Gowariker researched for the script alongwith experts and archaelogists over the period of three years.
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Asoka
Mauryan emperor Asoka (Shah Rukh Khan) falls in love with Kaurwaki (Kareena Kapoor Khan), the princess of Kalinga unknown to the fact that she is supposed to be his rival as he attempts to conquer Kalinga. The film is an epic account of King Asoka’s life, however, it is not entirely historically accurate owing to the dramatization of the plot.