Gandhi Jayanti 2024: On Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary, we celebrate his legacy through film. Here’s a list of lesser-known movies that explore different aspects of his life
October 2nd marks the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, whose teachings and practice of non-violence have left an indelible mark on the world. This Gandhi Jayanti, we look beyond the popular portrayals and turn our attention to some lesser-known treasures in the world of cinema that have explored different facets of Gandhi’s life and philosophy. These films offer varied narratives and fresh perspectives that underscore his immense influence on India’s struggle for freedom and his enduring legacy.
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**Hamne Gandhi Ko Maar Dia**
“Hamne Gandhi Ko Maar Dia,” a 2018 cinematic jewel directed by Naeem A Siddiqui, delves deep into the partition era, post-British Raj. It follows the stories of two strangers, Kailash and Divakar, who find themselves crossing paths on a train journey. As they traverse the tumultuous landscape, their divergent views on Mahatma Gandhi and his ideology come to the forefront. Their dialogue is set against the backdrop of a pivotal moment in Indian history – the assassination of Gandhi. This gripping narrative invites viewers to reflect on the enduring impact of Gandhi’s assassination. The film can be streamed on ShemarooMe.
**Road to Sangam**
Released in 2009 and directed by Amit Rai, “Road to Sangam” is a compelling story about Hasmat, a devout Muslim and skilled mechanic in Uttar Pradesh. Hasmat is entrusted with the task of repairing an antique lorry, completely unaware that it once carried one of the 20 urns that contained Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes. As the truth behind the urns is revealed, Hasmat is faced with a complex moral and emotional journey. He resolves to transport Gandhi’s last remains, which leads him into a maze of interpersonal and communal challenges. With powerful performances by Paresh Rawal, Om Puri, and Pavan Malhotra, this film paints a profound picture of unity and homage. It is available for streaming on ShemarooMe.
**Gandhigiri**
“Gandhigiri” is a 2016 film featuring the late Om Puri in an unforgettable role as Rai Saheb, an NRI who returns to India staunchly following Mahatma Gandhi’s principles. Upon his return, he meets four individuals whose lives are steeped in poor judgments.
. Determined to reform their ways, Rai Saheb employs Gandhi’s ideals to offer them a new path. The film presents a heartwarming narrative on how Gandhi’s teachings transcend time and continue to shape lives. This inspiring tale is available on Amazon Prime Video.
**Nannu Gandhi**
Directed by NR Nanjunde Gowda, the 2008 Kannada film “Nannu Gandhi” captures the essence of Gandhi’s teachings through the eyes of children. It tells the story of a group of young individuals who influence their community by strictly adhering to the Mahatma’s principles. This endearing and thought-provoking film showcases how the timeless values of truth and non-violence can be imparted to and adopted by the younger generation. Viewers can watch this impactful film on Disney+ Hotstar.
**Rebooting Mahatma**
“Rebooting Mahatma,” a unique 2019 Gujarati film, brings the essence of Mahatma Gandhi into the 21st century. The film envisions a humanoid version of Gandhi, who interacts with the contemporary world, addressing modern issues like political systems, social media, Bollywood, and youth culture. This imaginative narrative allows viewers to reflect on how Gandhi’s timeless wisdom could be applied to today’s societal problems. It’s a thought-provoking exploration available on ShemarooMe.
**Gandhi Godse – Ek Yudh**
“Gandhi Godse – Ek Yudh” takes a bold and imaginative approach by proposing a fictional scenario where Mahatma Gandhi survives the assassination attempt by Nathuram Godse. The film explores Gandhi’s choice to pardon Godse and the subsequent social interactions between them. This intriguing narrative delves into the complexities of forgiveness and the enduring struggle between their ideologies. The film is available for viewing on Netflix.
As we celebrate this Gandhi Jayanti, these lesser-known films offer a deep and enriching exploration into the life and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cinema lover, or simply curious about Gandhi’s legacy, these movies provide a remarkable journey through different narratives influenced by the life of one of the most revered leaders in history. So, take a moment to immerse yourself in these cinematic gems that remind us of the timeless values Gandhi bestowed upon the world.
