What to watch: 7 Indian historical movies and web series to watch this Independence Day

Indian movies and web series have brought important chapters from the past to life through stories of revolutionaries, soldiers, leaders and ordinary people caught in defining moments. If you want to spend Independence Day revisiting India's history, these titles make for an engaging watch.

Imtiaz Ali’s Partition-era drama follows Nirvair Grewal (Diljit Dosanjh), who tries to understand the past of his 95-year-old grandfather Ishar Singh Grewal (Naseeruddin Shah). As Ishar’s memories fade because of dementia, he keeps returning to the story of Jiya (Sharvari), the woman he loved.

What Happened

Nirvair slowly pieces together the events that separated them and the pain his family carried for decades. Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja (Siddharth) joins Wing Commander B.S.

• The movie moves between the present and the Partition of 1947, showing how the violence and displacement of that time continued to affect those who survived it.

• Set during the 1999 Kargil War, the series follows the Indian Air Force’s Golden Arrows squadron as it prepares for a dangerous mission in the mountains.

• Directed by Shoojit Sircar, this biographical historical drama chronicles the life of revolutionary Udham Singh (Vicky Kaushal), who spent over two decades planning the assassination of Michael O'Dwyer (Shaun Scott), the former Lieutenant Governor.

Key Details

Dhanoa ‘Tony’ (Jimmy Shergill) and the young pilots, including Flying Officer R.S. As Pakistani forces occupy strategic positions, the pilots face difficult missions, unpredictable conditions and the pressure of fighting at high altitudes.

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• Directed by Richard Attenborough, the movie traces Gandhi’s public life while also showing the personal cost of his commitment to India’s freedom.

Why It Matters

The series also looks at the families waiting back home as the pilots put their lives on the line. Based on true events, it brings the IAF’s role in the Kargil War to the screen.

• It also features Jawaharlal Nehru (Rohini Hattangadi), Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (Saeed Jaffrey), Muhammad Ali Jinnah (Alyque Padamsee) and Lord Mountbatten (Edward Fox) as Gandhi navigates the political struggles that eventually lead to Independence and.

• The movie follows his use of non-violent resistance as he challenges British rule, leads mass protests and works to unite people across communities.

What Reports Say

Coverage of the story so far points to:

• Continued reporting by GQ India as more details emerge