Bollywood, the Indian film industry, is renowned for its diverse storytelling and vibrant cinematic experiences. Films based on real-life events hold a special place among its many genres. These films offer audiences a window into significant historical moments, societal issues, and extraordinary personal stories.
Here Are 10 Hindi Movies Based On True Events
Let’s take a look at ten Hindi films that have earnedappreciation for their compelling narratives grounded in true events.
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Airlift (2016)
“Airlift,” directed by Raja Krishna Menon and starring Akshay Kumar, is based on the 1990 Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. The film focuses on Ranjit Katyal, an Indian businessman who played a vital role in evacuating thousands of Indian nationals from Kuwait during the crisis. The film highlights the immense challenges faced during the evacuation and the bravery required to navigate such a complex and dangerous situation. It sheds light on the coordination between the Indian government and individuals like Katyal, who risked their lives to ensure the safety of others.
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Neerja (2016)
“Neerja,” directed by Ram Madhvani and starring Sonam Kapoor, tells the heroic story of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life to save passengers during a hijacking in Karachi in 1986. The film focuses on her brave actions during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73. Neerja’s selflessness and courage in the face of danger make her a national hero, and the film pays tribute to her legacy by highlighting her extraordinary bravery and the personal sacrifices she made.
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Mary Kom (2014)
“Mary Kom,” directed by Omung Kumar and starring Priyanka Chopra, is a biographical film about the life of Mary Kom, an acclaimed Indian boxer. The film chronicles her journey from early life to becoming a five-time world champion. It portrays her struggles with societal expectations, personal challenges, and sacrifices to achieve her goals. “Mary Kom” showcases her determination and resilience, inspiring audiences with her story of perseverance and success.
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Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)
“Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,” directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and starring Farhan Akhtar, is a biographical sports drama about Milkha Singh, an Indian sprinter known as the ‘Flying Sikh.‘ The film details his rise from a troubled childhood to a renowned athlete. It explores his struggles, including the impact of the Partition of India, and his achievements on the international stage, including his participation in the Olympics. The film highlights Milkha’s dedication and the challenges he overcame to achieve greatness.
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Sardar Udham (2021)
“Sardar Udham,” directed by Shoojit Sircar and starring Vicky Kaushal, is a historical drama about Sardar Udham Singh, a revolutionary who assassinated Michael O’Dwyer, the British lieutenant-governor of Punjab, in 1940. This act was in retaliation for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where British troops killed hundreds of Indian civilians. The film provides insight into Singh’s quest for justice and the broader struggle for Indian independence, portraying the sacrifices made by those who fought against colonial rule.
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Article 15 (2019)
“Article 15,” directed by Anubhav Sinha and starring Ayushmann Khurrana, addresses caste-based discrimination in rural India. The film follows a police officer investigating crimes against lower-caste women and exposes the deep-seated prejudices and social inequalities in society. It highlights the systemic issues marginalised communities face and underscores the need for social reform, providing a stark portrayal of ongoing social challenges in India.
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Baby (2015)
“Baby,” directed by Neeraj Pandey and starring Akshay Kumar, is an espionage thriller inspired by real-life anti-terrorist operations. The film depicts the efforts of an elite Indian intelligence team tasked with dismantling a terrorist network planning attacks on India. It highlights the complexities of counter-terrorism operations and the challenges faced by security agencies in preventing terrorist activities, offering a tense and thrilling look at national security.
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Dangal (2016)
“Dangal,” directed by Nitesh Tiwari and starring Aamir Khan, is based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trained his daughters to become world-class wrestlers. The film follows the Phogat family’s journey and their success in the sport, emphasizing themes of women’s empowerment and the pursuit of dreams. “Dangal” portrays the obstacles faced by the Phogat family in a male-dominated field and is an inspiring example of determination and achievement.
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Black Friday (2004)
“Black Friday,” directed by Anurag Kashyap, explores the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts, a series of terrorist attacks that caused significant destruction and loss of life. The film delves into the complexities of the investigation process and the impact of the attacks on the city. It provides a detailed examination of the aftermath and the efforts to track the perpetrators, offering a thought-provoking look at a dark chapter in Indian history.
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The Kashmir Files (2022)
The Kashmir Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, depicts the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley during the 1990s. The film has sparked considerable debate due to its portrayal of the events and their impact on the Kashmiri Pandit community. It highlights the displacement and suffering experienced by the Pandits and brings attention to the issues surrounding their departure, providing a perspective on a sensitive and complex issue.
These ten films represent various Hindi movies inspired by real-life events. Each film offers insights into India’s history, societal issues, and individual achievements. By exploring these stories, audiences gain a deeper understanding of the country’s past and present and the remarkable individuals who have shaped its history. Bollywood’s portrayal of these real-life events continues to engage and educate viewers, highlighting the resilience, courage, and perseverance of the people involved.
