The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, one of the most horrific chapters in India’s struggle for independence, has been depicted in various ways in Bollywood, each offering a unique perspective on the tragedy. This incident, which took place on April 13, 1919, saw British troops open fire on unarmed Indian civilians, killing hundreds and injuring thousands.
Over the years, filmmakers have approached the massacre from different angles, using their platforms to shed light on the historical significance and the personal and political struggles tied to it. However, the question remains: what is the best way to depict such a monumental event—accurately, respectfully, and sensitively?
How 3 Films Depicted The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
Akshay Kumar's upcoming film 'Kesari Chapter 2' takes a legal and political approach to the massacre, focusing on Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair’s fight against the British. This portrayal promises to delve into the political climate of the time, highlighting the courage and resistance of individuals who stood up against the British empire, trying to hold them accountable for their actions. This approach is significant, as it looks at the larger systemic forces at play during the massacre, addressing the political ramifications of the incident and the pursuit of justice through legal channels.
Before that, Ram Madhvani’s 'The Waking of a Nation' took a dramatic route, aiming to explore the premeditated and systematic nature of the massacre. By focusing on the meticulous planning and orchestration of the event, the film provided a detailed narrative of how the massacre was not just an unfortunate incident but a well-executed, calculated assault on Indian civilians. The film’s portrayal emphasizes the cruelty and intentionality behind the massacre, allowing the audience to understand the brutal mindset of the colonizers during this time.
In contrast, Vicky Kaushal’s 'Sardar Udham' focused on the personal vengeance of Udham Singh, who was deeply affected by the massacre and dedicated his life to seeking justice for the victims. This emotional, poignant take on Singh’s quest for retribution brought out the human cost of the tragedy and highlighted Singh’s personal journey to avenge the lives lost in Jallianwala Bagh. Through Udham’s eyes, the film explores themes of trauma, justice, and sacrifice.
Each of these films offers a different lens through which we can understand the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. While the political and legal approach of 'Kesari Chapter 2' offers a broader view of the struggle for independence, The 'Waking of a Nation' presents the meticulous cruelty of colonialism, and 'Sardar Udham' provides a personal and emotional narrative of loss and revenge.
So, what’s the best way to depict such a historic event? Perhaps it lies in striking a balance between these approaches!
