6 MOVIES BASED ON THE LIFE OF BHAGAT SINGH

India’s iconic freedom fighter Bhagat Singh sacrificed his life for the nation’s independence at the young age of 23, alongside Sukhdev Thapar and Shivaram Rajguru on March 23, 1931. Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru remain some of the most influential revolutionaries in India’s history. Their legacy continues to inspire, not only the Indian independence movement but also Bollywood. On the occasion of Shaheed Diwas, observed on March 23, here is a compilation of six Bollywood movies that have captured the life and spirit of Bhagat Singh.

1. 23rd March 1931: Shaheed (2002)

This film features Bobby Deol as Bhagat Singh, Sunny Deol as Chandrashekhar Azad, and Amrita Singh as Bhagat Singh’s mother, with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan making a special appearance in a song. "23rd March 1931: Shaheed" depicts the events leading up to the hanging of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev. Although it didn't perform well at the box office, it was critically appreciated. This movie coincided with the release of another Bhagat Singh biopic, "The Legend of Bhagat Singh."

2. The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)

Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, "The Legend of Bhagat Singh" stars Ajay Devgn in the lead role. The film beautifully portrays Bhagat Singh’s struggle for India's independence and his views on the British Raj. It begins with the British attempting to dispose of Singh’s body and uses flashbacks to recount his story. This movie won two National Film Awards for Best Feature Film and three Filmfare Awards. CELEBRATE THIS LEGEND WITH AMAZING MERCHES!

3. Shaheed-E-Azam (2002)

"Shaheed-E-Azam" features Sonu Sood as Bhagat Singh. The film illustrates how Bhagat Singh decided to eliminate British rule in India, his involvement in various attacks against the colonial rulers, and the events leading to his execution for killing a British officer.

4. Shaheed (1965)

Directed by S. Ram Sharma, "Shaheed" stars Manoj Kumar, Kamini Kaushal, Pran, Iftekhar, Nirupa Roy, Prem Chopra, Madan Puri, and Anwar Hussain. This was Manoj Kumar’s first patriotic film, followed by "Upkar," "Purab Aur Paschim," and "Kranti." The film portrays the lives of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, focusing on their sacrifices which eventually contributed to India’s freedom from British rule.

5. Shaheed Bhagat Singh (1963)

Directed by K.N. Bansal, "Shaheed Bhagat Singh" features Shammi Kapoor as Bhagat Singh. The film also stars Shakeela, Premnath, Ulhas, and Achla Sachdev, depicting the revolutionary’s life and his contributions to India’s independence.

6. Shaheed-e-Azad Bhagat Singh (1954)

"Shaheed-e-Azad Bhagat Singh" is the first film based on Bhagat Singh’s life. Directed by Jagdish Gautam, the film stars Prem Abeed, Jairaj, Smriti Biswas, and Ashita Mazumdar. It features the classic patriotic song "Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna Ab Hamare Dil Mein Hai," sung by Mohammed Rafi.

These movies not only celebrate Bhagat Singh’s heroism and sacrifice but also keep the flame of his revolutionary spirit alive for future generations. His legacy, alongside the contributions of the Indian Army and other freedom fighters, continues to inspire the ongoing fight for justice and freedom.

[The images used in this blog post are not owned by Anime Devta, they are just for entertainment purposes]

~Mimansa Sharma