Bollywood has a rich tradition of bringing India’s history to life, offering audiences a cinematic journey through the nation’s most significant events. Between 2020 and 2025, filmmakers have continued this legacy, presenting stories that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. The latest addition to this genre is Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency, set to stream soon.
Emergency: A Dive into India’s Political Turmoil
Scheduled to premiere on Netflix on March 17, 2025, Emergency portrays the controversial period from 1975 to 1977 when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency across India. Kangana Ranaut, who directed and starred in the film, delves into the political and social upheavals of the era, shedding light on the challenges to democracy and civil liberties. The film originally hit theaters on January 17, 2025, and its OTT release is highly anticipated.
Recent Bollywood Films Showcasing Historical Narratives
The past five years have seen a surge in films that explore India’s rich history. Here are some notable releases:
1. Chhaava (2025)
Chhaava, released on February 14, 2025, is a historical action-drama based on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of the great Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film portrays his military prowess, unwavering dedication to his people, and his tragic end. Directed by Laxman Utekar and starring Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, Chhaava has been praised for its grand battle sequences, emotionally charged storytelling, and authentic portrayal of Maratha history.
2. The Sabarmati Report (2024)
Released on November 15, 2024, The Sabarmati Report is an investigative drama that unravels the truth behind the infamous Godhra train burning incident in 2002, which sparked one of the most controversial communal riots in Indian history. The film, starring Vikrant Massey and Raashii Khanna, presents a journalist’s pursuit of truth against political interference and media biases. Directed by Ranjan Chandel, the film provides an in-depth look at how misinformation and propaganda shape public perception.
3. Superboys of Malegaon (2025)
Inspired by real-life events, this film follows Nasir, a young cinema enthusiast in Malegaon, as he transitions from running a VHS rental business to creating his own parodies of Bollywood hits. The movie showcases the spirit of filmmaking in small-town India and is set to release in UK cinemas on February 28, 2025.
Bollywood’s commitment to portraying historical events serves multiple purposes; these films introduce audiences to significant events and figures, fostering a deeper understanding of India’s past. By revisiting historical moments, cinema reflects on societal values, challenges, and transformations, prompting viewers to contemplate contemporary issues in light of past experiences. Filmmakers blend factual narratives with creative storytelling, offering fresh perspectives and engaging interpretations of historical events.
As Emergency gears up for its OTT debut, audiences have the opportunity to explore this pivotal chapter in India’s history, along with other recent cinematic portrayals, enriching their understanding of the nation’s journey through time.
