The description given to something can change its colours and evoke emotions that were never present before.
Indian cinema has taken centre stage in making films about the rich history of the country. Presenting the courage of freedom fighters or exploring the diverse cultural heritage, every filmmaker has a special vision of bringing history to life on the silver screen.
An incomparable gem of Indian cinema, Mughal-e-Azam explores a tale of forbidden love in the Mughal period. The film has garnered immense love from the masses and is one of the most iconic films of all time. The elegant costumes, grand setting and classic dialogues add an eternal charm to the story while providing a glimpse into the lives of people during those times. Mughal-e-Azam even helps the viewers in picturing the social and political atmosphere of medieval times, a great advantage as it builds curiosity in people regarding such topics, encouraging them to learn more about history.
Another remarkable film that employs a historical setting is Lagaan, which takes place in the colonial period and revolves around a group of villagers who challenge the British in a game of cricket. This film beautifully captures the spirit of resistance and patriotism in the face of oppression. In recent years, filmmakers have tried to explore lesser-known stories from Indian history. Films like Kesari and Gold highlight unsung characters and events from different eras.
Indian cinema has also explored momentous events through biopics. Films like Sardar Udham, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, and The Legend of Bhagat Singh delve into the lives of individuals who made unforgettable contributions to the past. Besides educating the audiences about the journeys of these extraordinary figures, these films also inspire people by showing how historic personalities rose above countless obstacles.
Still, the portrayal of historical themes in Indian cinema is surrounded by controversy. Debates about the essence of historical accuracy arise when filmmakers take artistic liberty to make stories engaging. Some argue that historical films should adhere to facts; others support creative interpretation as it connects history to a bigger audience. At times, however, rewriting and oversimplifying history can create negativity. Padmaavat and Samrat Prithviraj are among the films that have drawn criticism for encouraging stereotypes.
Thus, Indian cinema has played an interesting role in depicting history. With their powerful performances and compelling themes, films allow audiences to relive significant moments from history. Although films fail to represent historical figures accurately, one cannot deny that cinema leaves an impact by entertaining people and helping them remember the past.
About the Writer
Palak is a passionate writer who enjoys reading new books. She pens down her thoughts through creative writing. She hopes to inspire others to embrace a life of authenticity, self-discovery and personal growth.
