Chandrashekhar Azad’s final stand in 1931 at Alfred Park remains etched in India’s independence lore. The Madhya Pradesh-born daredevil’s refusal to yield alive symbolizes ultimate patriotism. Bollywood, ever the storyteller, has revisited his life through diverse lenses, from epics to modern interpretations.
‘Shaheed’ (1965) set the benchmark, with Manmohan’s Azad adding depth to the Bhagat Singh saga. His performance’s authenticity has stood the test of time.
2002 delivered dual gems. ’23rd March 1931: Shaheed’ featured Sunny Deol’s rugged Azad alongside Bobby’s intense Singh, capturing their revolutionary synergy. Sunny infused Azad-like resolve into ‘Indian’s’ hero too.
In Rajkumar Santoshi’s ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh,’ Akhilendra Mishra’s Azad was a standout, enriching the film’s historical tapestry.
‘Rang De Basanti’ revolutionized the genre in 2006. Aamir Khan’s arc mirrored Azad’s fervor, blending past and present in a youth awakening narrative that shattered earnings expectations.
Turning to lesser-known treasures, 2022’s ‘Hero of Nation Chandrashekhar Azad’ emerged from exhaustive research, while 2020’s ‘Shaheed Chandrashekhar Azad’ offered a focused biopic with Rishabh Raj’s compelling lead under Rajesh Mittal.
These films collectively paint Azad not just as a historical figure but as an eternal inspiration. On his punyatithi, they compel us to reflect on sacrifices that birthed a free India.