In the world of Bollywood war films, the depiction of Indian soldiers has evolved over the years, reflecting the changing political landscape of the country. From the ethical superiority of soldiers in classics like Lakshya to the desire for vengeance in recent hits like Uri and Fighter, the portrayal of the Indian armed forces has shifted.
In Lakshya, Colonel Sunil Damle sets a standard of decency for his soldiers, emphasizing the importance of upholding values even in the heat of battle. This ethical stance gives the Indian soldiers a sense of moral superiority over their rivals, highlighting the ethos of non-violence that is deeply ingrained in Indian culture.
However, recent films like Uri and Fighter take a different approach, focusing on the desire for retribution and the need to “teach the enemy a lesson.” These films dramatize real-life incidents such as the surgical strike after the Uri terror attack and the airstrikes near Balakot following the Pulwama incident.
The shift in attitude in these films reflects a broader change in India’s defence policy and political rhetoric. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s references to these films in his speeches indicate a certain alignment between the government’s messaging and the themes portrayed in these movies.
While films like Uri have seen immense success at the box office, others like Fighter have failed to make a mark, suggesting that the appetite for revenge narratives may be waning. As Bollywood continues to explore the complexities of war and patriotism, it remains to be seen how these themes will evolve in the future.