Morale boosting stories in Hindi Cinema
Hindi cinema is often characterized by larger than life settings, melodrama and lots of dance and music. Though these are the essential elements that make a classic Bollywood film, every now and then comes a movie that breaks this conventional norm. There are films that rise above these stereotypes and carve a niche for themselves. These are movies that inspire people but not in a preachy way and motivate people through their realistic treatment and meaningful approach.
In recent times we have seen several masterpieces that have taken the simple issues of life and treated them with a fresh outlook. From inspiring the youth to advocating team spirit, encouraging one to follow their heart or standing up to unjust political practices, these films give you the courage to make a difference. We take a look at some of the recent films that can boost your morale when low and change the way you perceive life.
Rang De Basanti
Rang De Basanti – This movie was truly revolutionary in nature as it glorified the power of the youth. Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Rang De Basanti takes history as a reference point to motivate the youth of today. It revolves around a group of friends who are as nonchalant as any regular college-goer, but a terrifying incident changes their approach to life. It has an underlying theme of awakening the nationalistic spirit as these young people stand against the political system of the country in a bid to fight for justice. As the narrative of the film shifts between the past, with young leaders like Bhagat Singh and Rajguru fighting for the freedom of their motherland and present, where the youth is revolting against current day corruption, one can’t ignore seamless and hard-hitting concept. Rang De Basanti is a film that compels you to think, it summons you to stand up for what is right and most importantly tells you that the youth can make a change if they stand up for what is right.
Chak De India
Chak De India – There is nothing better than a well made sports film to arouse motivation. Set against the backdrop of India’s national game, hockey, Shimit Amin’s Chak De India is a movie that creates myriad emotions ranging from happiness and sorrow to anger and self realization. The film strongly puts across one message, that you can overcome any odds if you focus on the final goal. Devoid of unnecessary melodrama, the movie focuses on the importance of team spirit and unity and highlights the relevance of putting the larger goal ahead of your own interests. It teaches you a number of lessons that are relevant not just in the sports field but in every aspect of life. The casting of the film was spot on, Shahrukh Khan as the mentor and the fresh faces with no acting background, add to the grit of each character who motivate you to never say die. In a country where women are often bogged down at every stage, this film inspires every woman out there to pursue her dreams and fight till the very end to emerge victorious.
3 Idiots
3 Idiots – College life is often looked at as the best period in any individual’s life. But seldom do we pay attention to the stress, pressures and hardships that dwell inside the outer façade of the fun and revelry. Rajkumar Hirani’s 3 Idiots does just that, it provides an insight into the younger generation of today, some who are too weak to face rejection while some nurture a dream but are unable to chase it. 3 Idiots teaches you to enjoy learning, experiment with new ideas and pursue excellence. In a time when young kids are succumbing to the pressures of education, it helps you to understand the value of life and how marks are not the end of it all. 3 Idiots also throws light on our education system which is driven by marks rather than focusing on an individual’s creativity. What makes this film heartwarming is the strong theme of friendship and how friends can support and help each other through the worst phases of life. This out of the box film was a record breaker at the box office owing to its hugely encouraging theme and funny yet significant storyline.
Lage Raho Munnabhai
Lage Raho Munnabhai – Another film which draws inspiration from history and uses it as a means to solve problems of today is Lage Raho Munnabhai. Helmed by Rajkumar Hirani, this film propagates the messages of Mahatma Gandhi through a goon named Munnabhai. Though it may seem over the top at first, with a goon preaching the values of Gandhi, it actually focuses on the relevance of Gandhi’s teaching in today’s times. It advocates the path of non-violence and truth, principles that may seem difficult to follow, but the film tries to put forth their eternal viability. It also revives the ideologies of the great man in a colloquial way with a contemporary touch and was hence an instant hit with the audiences. Infact the film inspired several acts of Gandhigiri in different parts of the country.
Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year
Rocket Singh: Salesman of the year – This film stands out for a number of reasons – the characters are believable, the drama is restrained and it is simplistically shot. But Rocket Singh: Salesman of the year is most remembered for its realism, for the way it approaches the dilemmas everyone faces in their career. It is a highly educating film for youngsters who are just stepping into the corporate world or looking at starting their own ventures. It influences them to stick to ethical practices rather than choosing the easy way out. Rocket Singh: Salesman of the year also teaches us that honesty and hard work are the most important aspects on which a good business edifice stands. Directed by Shimit Amin, who has given us awe inspiring films like Chak De India, the film combines day to day conflicts of every employee and puts together a compelling narrative. Though it does get preachy in a few instances, at the core of it, Rocket Singh is a story that reassures one to follow their heart and stick to their virtues to become successful.
