Celebrating Veer Savarkar: 3 Films Announced on his 140th Birth Anniversary

Mumbai: Veer Savarkar, a prominent figure in Indian history, has sparked a range of emotions. On May 28, 2023, which marked his 140th birth anniversary, three films about his life were announced in different Indian film industries.

Savarkar, known for coining the term Hindutva and leading the Hindu Mahasabha, became controversial after being implicated in Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, although he was later acquitted due to insufficient evidence.

Savarkar’s life has been a source of fascination for many as he inspired numerous freedom fighters, including Madan Lal Dhingra, Chandrasekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Subhash Chandra Bose. His brothers, Ganesh and Narayan, along with their wives, were also involved in the freedom movement.

The divergent political views of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Gandhi, and Savarkar have significantly shaped India and its history. Dr Ambedkar, known as the architect of the Indian Constitution, championed Dalit activism. Gandhi, revered as the Father of the Nation, led India to independence through the principle of non-violence (Ahimsa). Meanwhile, Savarkar emerged as a leader of Hindutva-based nationalism and activism. The unique perspectives and contributions of these individuals have captivated writers and filmmakers.

Three films are currently in the works to portray Savarkar’s life. “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” is a Hindi film starring Randeep Hooda as Veer Damodar Savarkar, marking Hooda’s directorial debut. Ram Charan, through his production house V Mega Pictures in association with Abhishek Agarwal Arts, is producing “The India House.” Directed by Ram Vamsi Krishna, the film stars Nikhil Siddhartha as Shiva and Anupam Kher as Shyamji Krishna Varma. Additionally, a Kannada film directed by Radhakrishna Pallakki explores Savarkar’s relationship with Dr B.R. Ambedkar and the wives of Savarkar’s brothers, with Sunil Raoh portraying the role of Savarkar.

Each of these films offers a unique perspective on Savarkar’s life, delving into his political activism and personal relationships. They aim to provide new insights into the journey of this renowned freedom fighter. The Kannada biopic is expected to release towards the end of the year and promises to be a commercial entertainer, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of Savarkar’s life.

The 140th birth anniversary of Savarkar also coincided with the inauguration of India’s new parliament building, highlighting the continuing significance and influence of historical figures like Savarkar in shaping the nation’s trajectory.