This Gandhi Jayanti, let’s look at the best representation of Mahatma on screen

From Lage Raho Munnabhai to Gandhi, the film industry has brought the crusader of non-violence movement during the fight for India’s freedom, Mahatma Gandhi, in different ways on the silver screen.

On the 148th birth anniversary of father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, we look at films which brought alive his life and times on the silver screen for the world. From a commercial success like Lage Raho Munnabhia to the story of his 21 years in South Africa in The Making of Mahatma, the silver screen has explored different stories of the man known as the Father of India. We take a look!

The silver screen has explored different aspects of Mahatma Gandhi’s life.

Lage Raho Munna Bhai

A still from the film Lage Raho Munnabhai.

Originally titled Munnabhai Meets Mahatma, this 2010 film is perhaps the only mainstream film to explore the teachings and beliefs of Gandhi on the silver screen. This Rajkumar Hirani flick set Gandhi’s ideology amid modern-day situations, resulting in humorous outcomes. The first Hindi film to be shown at the United Nations, it was also screened at the Tous Les Cinema Du Monde section of the 2007 Cannes Film Festival.

The Making of the Mahatma

Actors Rajit Kapoor and Pallavi Joshi in the film The Making of Mahatma.

This Indo-South African production showcased the early life of Mahatma Gandhi, depicting his 21 years as a barrister in South Africa, and his struggle there to rid the nation of the practice of apartheid. The titular role was played by Rajit Kapoor, and the film was directed by filmmaker Shyam Benegal. This 1996 film won two National Awards for Best Actor and Best Feature Film in English.

Gandhi

Actor Ben Kingsley in the film Gandhi.

The Academy Award- winning film that came out in 1982, was a biographical drama on Gandhi. The film, directed by Richard Attenborough, had Hollywood actor Ben Kingsley playing the role of Gandhi. Not many know that in one of the scenes, where Gandhi walks down a sidewalk in a South African town, one of the street bullies passing insulting remarks at him and blocking his way, is none other than Hollywood legend Daniel Day-Lewis.

Gandhi, My Father

A still from the film Gandhi My Father.

This 2007 film explored a hitherto uncharted territory in Gandhi’s life. The film talked about his troubled relationship with his son, Harilal Gandhi. Directed by Anil Kapoor, the film is based on Harilal’s biography titled Harilal Gandhi: A life, by Chandulal Bhagubhai Dalal. Parts of the film were shot in Africa while the rest was shot in cities such as Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Follow @htshowbiz for more