Quote from the film:
“Zindagi jeene ke do do hi tarike hote hain, ek jo ho rha hai hone do, bardaast karte jao. Ya fir zimmedari uthao use badalne ki.”
Translation: “There are only two ways to live your life. Tolerate things the way they are. Or take responsibility to change them.”
Directed by: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Starring: Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Soha Ali Khan, Alice Patten, Sharman Joshi, Atul Kulkarni, Kunal Kapoor, and R. Madhavan.
An energetic and compelling story, this movie which was released in 2006, was ahead of its time and made a lasting impact on Indian society.
In this film, a group of friends who have recently graduated from college, are approached by a British filmmaker, Sue, who wants to cast them in a film about the Indian freedom fighters under British rule. In the beginning, the group refused to be a part of the film, as they do not resonate with the freedom fighters who fought and they were apolitical.
However, their view on that changes, as their friend passes away, due to local corruption. This tragic incident awakens the feeling of patriotism within the friends, and they agree to be a part of the film. They slowly find themselves getting inspired by the freedom fighters, and want to avenge their friend’s death.
Why Was This Such A Great Film?
Statistically, this film was a super-hit in India. But this movie has a deeper meaning to it, which resonated with the audience.
When this film was released, most of the people were just used to the way things were. They were used to the system. Even if they did not like it, they just went along with it. Never raised a voice. Those who did raise their voice, they were pushed and trampled over. This film helped flick a switch inside the citizens of India, especially the youth, that we live in modern, democratic society. We can show our displeasure with the way our country is running.
In the film, the friends start off with doing peaceful protests, like marching with candles. This inspired many hearts, and people actually joined together, unified once again for the greater good, and held peaceful protests against any wrongdoing, corruption, and violence. One example of this was when the public was absolutely outraged by the Nirbhaya Rape Case, and got together and held a protest for justice!
This act was truly an enlightening one, as the entire country saw the public unified for justice and fighting for it!
This film also encouraged the youth to take interest in politics and news, and voice out their opinions and take a stand!
Yes, we have heard of films making an impact on society, however, this film which was released around 15 years ago, still holds a place in everyone’s heart!
Quote from the film:
“Koi bhi desh perfect nahi hota. Use perfect banana padta hai.”
Translation: “No country is perfect. We’ve to make it perfect.“
Why I Recommend Watching This Film?
Even though you might not be from India, the main message of this film, patriotism and standing up for what you believe, is a message which spreads all throughout the world.
While in recent years, the youth of the world has been standing up for what they believe in, they are looked down upon, because they are too ‘young’. I hope whoever watches this film, understands the importance of standing up with your community, to fight the injustices and oppression against their own kind, humans.
We are all one. We are all humans. We should stand up for one another, regardless of race, gender, or anything else!
If you want to feel a boost of inspiration to make your voice heard out loud, this movie will help you with that!
Movies have a greater impact on society than most people think. You should never underestimate the power of cinema and the story behind it. It is all in the little things.
“Movies have power. Power to impact society and the choices we make. I want to entertain, but I also want to say something to the world. “
Gina Prince-Bythewood
The Nice Things In Life 