Bollywood has always been obsessed with reinventing history. Several historical period films have been widely released over the years.

With this article, we will present a list of Bollywood historical films that reflect in time and celebrate India’s history.

Let us have a glance at them.

Bajirao Mastani

The film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, portrays the narrative of Maratha Peshwa Bajirao and his second wife Mastani. It stars Ranveer Singh as Bajirao, Priyanka Chopra as Kashibai, and Deepika Padukone as Mastani. It is based on Nagnath S. Inamdar’s Marathi novel “Raau.”

Critics praised the film’s production design, directing, and lead actor’s performance when it was first released. It was also a huge economic success, garnering seven National Film Awards, including Best Direction and Best Supporting Actress for Azmi. At the 61st Filmfare Prizes, the film earned a record-breaking fourteen nominations and won nine awards. 

Available on Google Play Movies and TV as well as on youtube

Lagaan: Once upon a time in India

This 2001 film, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, is one of the most popular films to come out of Indian cinema. The plot is set during the British Raj India in a small village whose residents are oppressed by hefty taxes, and it stars Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh in the key roles.

An egotistical officer challenges them to a cricket match as a wager to evade taxes. The film was a huge critical and financial success, and it has now become ingrained in Indian society. It was the last Indian film to be nominated for an Oscar.

Available on Netflix.

Jodha -Akbar

Ashutosh Gowariker directed another film on this list. It centres on the love story of Mughal Emperor Jala-ud-din-Muhammad Akbar (Hrithik Roshan) and Rajput princess Jodhaa Bai (played by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan). The film’s historical accuracy and production design were lauded. It went on to be a critical and financial success, earning awards at a number of film festivals.

Available on Netflix

Padmaavat

Another movie on this list made by Sanjay Bhansali, the film was surrounded by controversy and faced huge demonstrations from those attempting to prohibit it. Deepika Padukone plays the title role in the film, which is based on Malik Mohammed Jayasi’s poem Padmavati. Shahid Kapoor plays King Ratan Singh, and Ranveer Singh plays Afghani ruler Sultan Alauddin Khilji.

Its release date was pushed back to January 2018 due to violent protests. The film received mixed reactions from critics but was a box office triumph.

Available on Amazon Prime Video.

Conclusion 

Part of the film’s everlasting impact is its capacity to educate viewers on history while still entertaining them with song, dancing, and renowned faces. These historical films tell the stories of some of our country’s most powerful personalities.

Author- Richa Tiwari