On the 23rd of January, India observes Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Jayanti, also referred to as Parakram Diwas, and the subject has been a part of many movies across different languages.
This marks the celebrations on the birthday of one of the most revered freedom fighters Indian history has ever known. His dedication to freedom in India and also his leadership in the Indian National Army will go down in history as indelibly marked. Today, is, therefore, the day of reflection on his glorious legacy that goes inspiring generation after generation.
In addition to public memorials, the life of Netaji has also been a matter of interest for filmmakers, resulting in many films that portray his journey, struggles, and the mystery of his death.
Remembering #SubhasChandraBose, the founder of the #AzadHindFauj (#IndianNationalArmy), on his birth anniversary. A multifaceted leader, he played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence, rallying support across Europe and Asia. Bose’s powerful speeches, including one… pic.twitter.com/VYzd53dqnc
— The Statesman (@TheStatesmanLtd) January 23, 2025
Some of the few notable movies depicting the story of Netaji are as follows:
Subash Chandra Bose (2005)
This Telugu-language historical action drama directed by K. Raghavendra Rao deals with the pre-independence era. It is a mixture of fiction and historical facts. The film is the story of a man Ashok, who discovers his relationship with Subhas Chandra Bose through flashbacks.
The movie is set in 1946 and traces Bose’s resistance against British officers to his eventual betrayal. The climax of the movie features Ashok, realizing that he is actually the reincarnation of Bose, confronting those who had killed him.
The film stars Venkatesh, Genelia D’Souza, and Prakash Raj, and is a dramatic portrayal of Bose’s fight for freedom.
Ami Shubhash Bolchi (2011)
In this Bengali-language film, the ordinary man Debabrata Bose finds his life intertwined with the spirit of Netaji. Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, the film explores how the protagonist, disillusioned with his life, discovers the true power of Bengali identity through the inspiration of Subhas Chandra Bose.
The film is a remake of the Marathi film ‘Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy’ and has Mithun Chakraborty in a power-packed role. He described it as one of his boldest movies, reflecting the lasting impact of Netaji Bose’s legacy.
Bose: Dead/Alive (2017)
This historical drama series is based on the book ‘India’s Biggest Cover-up’ by Anuj Dhar and looks into the mystery of Netaji’s death. Starring Rajkummar Rao as Bose, the series starts from 1945, when Bose’s plane is supposed to have crashed in Taiwan.
This show provides the theory that he might survive despite having widespread beliefs over his death. It progresses with the speculative reason for his disappearance and the theories behind his death and life.
Samadhi (1950)
A classic Hindi-language spy film, ‘Samadhi’ is one of the earliest portrayals of Netaji’s influence. Directed by Ramesh Saigal, the film tells the story of a young man who joins the INA after being inspired by Bose’s call for freedom. The film intertwines romance and espionage. Protagonist Shekhar becomes part of the INA while dealing with family conflicts and love.
The film, featuring Ashok Kumar as Bose, shows the personal losses of those fighting for independence.
Gumnaami (2019)
Directed by Srijit Mukherji, ‘Gumnaami’ is a mystery film in Bengali that probes into the enigma of Netaji’s death. Based on the Mukherjee Commission hearings and the book ‘Conundrum’ by Anuj Dhar, it is a narrative with multiple theories of Bose’s disappearance.
Prosenjit Chatterjee plays two different characters in the movie. It tries to explore each and every narrative concerning his death in the quest for truth.
These films, from historical dramas to mysteries, are a cinematic journey into the life of one of India’s greatest freedom fighters.
These movies not only entertain you, but also keep alive the spirit of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the quest for independence he so passionately led.