Kargil Vijay Diwas: 7 patriotic Bollywood movies to stream on OTT
- Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed on July 26 to mark India's victory in the 1999 Kargil War.
- Several Bollywood films have been made on the theme of patriotism and the Kargil conflict.
- A curated list of seven such movies is now available for streaming on various OTT platforms.
A day to remember
July 26 marks Kargil Vijay Diwas, the day India remembers its victory in the 1999 Kargil War and honours the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The day is observed with ceremonies and tributes across the country.
For those who wish to spend the day revisiting tales of courage and valour, several Bollywood movies on OTT platforms capture the spirit of the armed forces. These films tell stories of war, patriotism, and the human cost of conflict.
Seven films on streaming platforms
Here is a list of seven patriotic Bollywood movies that are available for streaming. Each film offers a different perspective on the themes of duty and sacrifice.
1. 'Shershaah' (Amazon Prime Video) – This biographical war film tells the story of Captain Vikram Batra, who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his actions in the Kargil War. The movie focuses on his journey from a young soldier to a national hero.
2. 'Lakshya' (Netflix) – Directed by Farhan Akhtar, this film follows the story of a directionless young man who joins the army and finds his purpose during the Kargil conflict. It is a coming-of-age story set against a war backdrop.
3. 'Border' (Disney+ Hotstar) – A classic war film based on the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. It features an ensemble cast and is known for its intense battle sequences.
4. 'Uri: The Surgical Strike' (Zee5) – The movie dramatises the Indian Army's surgical strikes across the Line of Control in 2016. It became a major commercial success and sparked discussions on military operations.
5. 'Kesari' (Amazon Prime Video) – Set during the Battle of Saragarhi in 1897, this film stars Akshay Kumar as Havildar Ishar Singh. It tells the story of 21 Sikh soldiers who fought against thousands of Afghan tribesmen.
6. 'M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story' (Netflix) – While not a war film, this biographical sports drama touches on Dhoni's early life as a ticket collector and his connection to the Indian Army. It includes a tribute to the armed forces.
7. 'Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran' (Amazon Prime Video) – This film is based on the 1998 nuclear tests at Pokhran. It highlights the role of the Indian Army and scientists in a covert operation that elevated India's global standing.
Why these films matter
These movies serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. They blend entertainment with a sense of national pride, making them a fitting watch on Kargil Vijay Diwas.
OTT platforms have made these films accessible to a wider audience. Viewers can choose from a range of genres, from biographical dramas to action-packed war films.
What to watch next
As more films on military themes are released, streaming libraries continue to expand. Viewers can expect new titles that explore different chapters of India's military history in the coming months.