30 Indian War Movies
India's history is a tapestry woven with various wars and battles that have left lasting marks on the country's rich cultural heritage. Legendary battles abound in ancient Indian history, such as the Kurukshetra War from the epic Mahabharata, which represents the eternal struggle between justice and evil. In the modern era, India has been involved in several significant wars. The country's first military confrontation after independence was the 1947-48 Indo-Pak war, while the 1962 Sino-Indian war challenged its frontiers and resolve.
During the Indo-Pak War in 1971, India played a critical part in the formation of Bangladesh, establishing its place in history. The 1999 Kargil War demonstrated the Indian military's unflinching commitment to defending the country's boundaries. Throughout these trials, India's warriors have shown great bravery and valor, symbolizing the country's devotion to freedom, sovereignty, and peace. These battles are more than just historical events; they are chapters in India's march to a more secure and prosperous future.
Over the years, Indian cinema has produced a diverse spectrum of war films that span a variety of historical periods and conflicts. Here's a rundown of 30 Indian military films:
1) Border (1997)
"Border" is a war epic directed by J.P. Dutta that recreates the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, Akshaye Khanna, and Jackie Shroff star in the film, which is recognized for its realistic representation of the battle.
2) Haqeeqat (1964)
"Haqeeqat" is a famous war film directed by Chetan Anand that shows the terrible realities of the 1962 Sino-Indian war. The film is famous for its compelling storytelling as well as Madan Mohan's soundtrack.
3) LOC Kargil (2003)
J.P. Dutta's "LOC Kargil" is a long and ambitious film that methodically examines the events of the 1999 Kargil War. It is a large ensemble cast and depicts the bravery and sacrifice of Indian troops.
4) Kesari (2019)
"Kesari" is a historical war film starring Akshay Kumar that is based on the Battle of Saragarhi in 1897, when 21 Sikh soldiers from the British Indian Army fought against thousands of Afghan tribesmen. It is well-known for its strong action scenes and patriotic sentiments.
5) 1971 (2007)
"1971" is a war film about prisoners of war (POWs) during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war. The film examines the experiences and struggles of Indian POWs detained in Pakistan.
6) Paltan (2018 film)
"Paltan," directed by J.P. Dutta, is a battle drama on the 1967 clashes between the Indian and Chinese soldiers at Nathu La and Cho La. It goes into the conflict's lesser-known facets.
7) Lakshya (2004)
Farhan Akhtar's "Lakshya" is a coming-of-age war film set during the 1999 Kargil conflict. The film follows the transformation of a young army officer, played by Hrithik Roshan, into a fearless soldier.
8) Tango Charlie (2005)
"Tango Charlie" depicts an Indian soldier's life and experiences in counter-insurgency operations. It throws light on the difficulties that soldiers encounter in isolated and conflict-prone places.
9) The Surgical Strike (2019)
This film stars Vicky Kaushal and is based on the real-life 2016 Uri incident and the subsequent surgical strikes undertaken by the Indian Army. It depicts the painstaking preparation and execution of the military operation.
10) Parmanu: The Pokhran Story (2018)
The thriller "Parmanu" dramatizes India's successful nuclear testing at Pokhran in 1998. It delves at the difficulties that scientists and military personnel encounter.
11) Kandahar (2010 film)
Inspired by the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, this film delves into the complexity of the rescue attempt to free hostages trapped in Kandahar, Afghanistan.
12) The Ghazi Attack (2017)
"The Ghazi Attack" is a military film that recreates the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict underwater fight between the Indian submarine INS Karanj and the Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi.
13) Kurukshetra(2019)
"Kurukshetra" is a historical war film based on the Indian epic Mahabharata's Kurukshetra War. It brings the great conflict and its renowned warriors to life.
14) Madras Cafe (2013)
A political thriller set against the backdrop of the civil war in Sri Lanka and the assassination of Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The film is well-known for depicting espionage and political intrigue in a realistic manner.
15) 72 Hours
The Martyr Who Never Died - This film is based on the true account of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who demonstrated extraordinary bravery during the Sino-Indian War in 1962. It honors his valiant acts.
16) Vijeta (1982)
"Vijeta" is a 1982 film directed by Govind Nihalani that follows the life of an Air Force commander during the 1971 war. It dives into the protagonist's emotional and professional issues.
17) Shaurya (2008 film)
"Shaurya" is a courtroom drama with the story of an army officer who challenges the ethics of war. It raises provocative concerns regarding military ethics.
18) Lakshya (2004)
"Lakshya" is a film about a young man's transition into a brave soldier during the Kargil War. It emphasizes the significance of determination and leadership.
19) Hindustan Ki Kasam (1973)
Set during World War II, "Hindustan Ki Kasam" depicts the Indian Army's brave efforts and role in the worldwide fight.
20) Param Vir Chakra (1995)
"Param Vir Chakra" is a biographical war film that honors the recipients of India's highest military decoration. It depicts the bravery of warriors in many conflicts.
21) LOC: Life Out of Control (2005)
A television series that depicts the life of troops and their families stationed at the Line of Control in a dramatic manner. It provides insight into the issues that the Indian Army faces.
22) Jai Jawan Jai Kisan (1971)
"Jai Jawan Jai Kisan" is a 1971 film that honors the contributions of Indian troops and farmers in both war and peace. It reflects on the Indian people's fortitude.
23) Lalkaar (film)
"Lalkaar" delves into the psychological and emotional toll that war has on troops and their families. It digs into the pain and difficulties that veterans encounter.
24) Vijaypath (1994)
"Vijaypath" is an action-packed war film with a war backdrop. It combines action and drama and stars Ajay Devgn and Tabu.
25) Maa Tujhhe Salaam (2002)
Starring Sunny Deol, this patriotic war film depicts an army officer's loyalty and love for the country.
26) Aakraman (film)
"Aakraman" is a war film on the 1971 India-Pakistan war. It demonstrates the valor of Indian soldiers on the battlefield.
27) Farz (1967)
While essentially a spy thriller, "Farz" contains elements of war and espionage during the 1965 India-Pakistan conflict. It stars Jeetendra and Babita Kapoor in pivotal roles.
28) Hindustan Ki Kasam (1999)
"Hindustan Ki Kasam" portrays the 1999 Kargil War. It stars Ajay Devgn and Amitabh Bachchan and depicts the conflict's ferocity.
29) Vijeta (2012)
"Vijeta," a Bengali film, delves into the life of a retired Air Force pilot, revealing insights into his hardships and accomplishments.
30) Lalkar
"Lalkaar" is a combat film that depicts Indian troops' bravery and determination. It emphasizes the value of perseverance in the face of hardship.