Rang De Basanti, directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, is a landmark film that redefined Indian cinema and reshaped social cinema on screen. Released in 2006, the film completes 20 years on January 26 this year. Starring Aamir Khan alongside Sharman Joshi, Siddharth, and others, it struck a deep chord with audiences and sparked nationwide conversations, becoming one of the most defining films of its time.
Ahead of the film’s 20th anniversary, director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra reflected on the making of the film, the challenges it encountered upon its release from getting banned to how it was later perceived by former President of India Pranab Mukherjee. Talking about the hurdles the film faced, the director revealed, “Rang De Basanti was also banned. We fought it out, ya and then finally the establishment saw the intention of the film. Infact the film was viewed by then Defence Minister Honourable Pranab Mukherjee. And the three heads of the Army, Navy, and Air Force in one theatre in Delhi, and then he went on to become the President of India. So, it had gone up to that level of, see, you don’t tell stories thinking about whether they will be allowed or not allowed, then stories will never come out.”
He further added, “If you think of a result and not the process, I think social cinema has always been there, will always be there, which picks up social issues and issues of the citizens and the society.” Rang De Basanti, directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, it starred Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Soha Ali Khan, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, and Atul Kulkarni in key roles. The story follows a group of carefree Indian youngsters who get involved in a documentary on freedom fighters. As they portray revolutionary heroes, they awaken to political corruption and injustice, leading them to take a bold stand that transforms their lives and conscience.