From ‘Gandhi’ to ‘Hey Ram’: Films to watch on Gandhi Jayanti

With the nation marking Gandhi Jayanti on October 2, the birth anniversary of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the life, values, and legacy of the Father of the Nation. Cinema has beautifully captured his inspiring journey, from his early years in South Africa to his leadership in India’s freedom struggle. This Gandhi Jayanti, honor his spirit by watching films that bring fresh perspectives to his life and philosophy.

For good reason, Sir Richard Attenborough's epic biographical film is a classic. It tells the story of Gandhi's life and stars Ben Kingsley, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of the leader. The film covers his involvement in the Indian independence movement, his assassination in 1948, and his political awakening following his 1893 train ordeal in South Africa. Having won eight Academy Awards, it remains a must-watch for anyone interested in Gandhi's public life and global influence.

Shyam Benegal's The Making of the Mahatma provides a deeper look at Gandhi's early years. The 21 years he spent in South Africa, which shaped his philosophy of nonviolence and satyagraha, are particularly highlighted. Gandhi is portrayed by Rajit Kapur, whose nuanced and powerful performance makes this film essential for understanding his transformation from a traditional barrister to the renowned "Mahatma."

Feroz Abbas Khan’s Gandhi, My Father focuses on Gandhi’s complex and tense relationship with his son, Harilal Gandhi. The film examines the personal cost of being the child of a man regarded as a father figure to the nation. Strong performances by Akshaye Khanna (as Harilal) and Darshan Jariwala (as Gandhi) bring to life this courageous exploration of Gandhi's role as a leader and his obligations to his family.

Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, this Bollywood film is perhaps the most well-known on the list and excels at introducing Gandhi's ideals to younger audiences. Mumbai gangster Munna Bhai begins seeing visions of Mahatma Gandhi (played by Dilip Prabhavalkar) and applies his teachings of satyagraha and nonviolence to contemporary issues. The term “Gandhigiri” became widely popular, and the film remains a clean, humorous, and effective reminder that Gandhi's principles are still relevant today.

Hey Ram, a sensitive and semi-fictional historical drama written, directed, and starring Kamal Haasan, offers a distinctly different perspective. The film follows Saket Ram, an archaeologist consumed by hatred for his community, who plots to assassinate Gandhi against the backdrop of partitioned India and Gandhi's eventual murder. Naseeruddin Shah delivers a remarkable performance as the Mahatma, serving as the catalyst for the main character’s transformation. The film is a multi-layered exploration of revenge, communal hatred, and ultimate redemption.