Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the man who led India’s Independence movement, is a name synonymous to India. Popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi, the activist who believed in non-violence has inspired generations across the world and continues to do so.

The life of Gandhi, fondly called Bapu or the ‘Father of the nation’, has always a subject for filmmakers to explore. While Richard Attenborough’s 1982 film, Gandhi, went on to acquire a cult status, filmmakers continue to have experimented with his life story and have given various narratives over the years.

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While some of the films dig into his early life and his journey to Independence, others charted unfamiliar territories. On his 71st death anniversary, let’s take a look at the unconventional films which showed Mahatma Gandhi in different ways or presented different aspects of his life.

Gandhi, my Father- The film directed by Feroz Abbas Khan is based on the biography of Mahatma Gandhi’s son, Harilal Gandhi. While most Gandhi films focus on the leader’s political life, this 2007 release explored his relationship with his son. Akshaye Khanna played the role of Harilal, while Darshan Jariwala, who was critically acclaimed for his performance, essayed Gandhi. The film went on to win three National Awards.

Welcome back Gandhi- This film showcases a unique plot which explores Gandhi’s return to modern India after 60 years. The 2014 film directed by A Balakrishnan shows Mahatma Gandhi’s reaction to the current issues prevailing in the nation.

Hey Ram- Starring Kamal Hassan and Shah Rukh Khan, this periodic drama has its plot revolving around the Gandhi’s assassination on 30 January 1948. The film directed by Kamal Hassan shows the perspective of a victim of Partition. Hey Ram was the Indian submission to the Oscars in 2000.

Nine hours to Rama- Adapted by a book authored by Stanley Wolpert by the same name, the British film traces the nine hours in Nathuram Godse’s life before he assassinated Mahatma Gandhi. The fictional film revolves around Godse’s life and what led him to Gandhi’s assassination.

Lage Raho Munna Bhai- The Bollywood film gave a comical spin to Gandhi’s character. Sanjay Dutt, who is a goon, tries to impress the love of his life, Vidya Balan, who believes in Mahatma Gandhi’s ideologies. The protagonist starts reading about Gandhi and imbibes his teachings. In the process, he gets so much engrossed that he starts seeing the spirit of Gandhi and begins to follow his principles in life.