10 movies like Jodha Akbar that will take you back to history: Padmaavat and more

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the rich tapestry of Indian cinema, I must say that these historical dramas are truly captivating. Each film offers a unique glimpse into our past, showcasing the valor, resilience, and passion of our ancestors.

Over time, we’ve been accustomed to numerous historical films in Hindi cinema. Pieces such as Jodha Akbar often take cues from actual historic incidents, notable leaders, or eras.

As an ardent history enthusiast, I can’t help but be captivated by the mesmerizing portrayals of epochal events like the Third Battle of Panipat in Panipat or Allauddin Khilji in Padmaavat. These historical dramas have a knack for keeping generations hooked with their intriguing narratives. They skillfully weave fact and fiction, offering an immersive cinematic journey that leaves us spellbound.

So, if you wish to go back in time then this is surely for you.

10 movies like Jodha Akbar to brush up your history knowledge:

1. Samrat Prithviraj

Cast: Akshay Kumar, Manushi Chhillar, and Sanjay Dutt
IMDB Rating: 5.6
Release year: 2022
Genre: Action/War
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

2022 saw the launch of the movie “Samrat Prithviraj,” featuring Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chhillar in the principal roles. Akshay took on the character of Prithviraj Chauhan, the ruler of the Chahamana dynasty, while Manushi made her screen debut as his on-screen spouse, Sanyogita, in this film.

In addition to Sanjay Dutt, Sakshi Tanwar, and Sonu Sood, this movie directed by Chandra Prakash Dwivedi was adapted from the epic poem “Prithviraj Raso,” originally written in the Braj language.

2. Padmaavat

Cast: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Shahid Kapoor
IMDB Rating: 7.1
Release year: 2018
Genre: Romance/Action
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Under the guidance of director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film Padmaavat featured Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Shahid Kapoor as its primary actors. In this 2018 movie, Ranveer assumed the role of Allauddin Khilji, a villain from the Khalji dynasty. Deepika was portrayed as Rani Padmavati, a Rajput queen, while Shahid depicted Raja Ratan Singh, the Rajput ruler of Mewar.

The movie adapts a grand epic poem titled “Padmavat” authored by Malik Muhammad Jayasi. It narrates the tale where Khilji, captivated by Queen Padmavati’s beauty, wages war against her and King Ratan Singh’s realm.

The climax shows Khilji capturing Chittor and Rajputi women performing Jauhar at the fort.

3. Asoka

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Ajith Kumar
IMDB Rating: 6.4
Release year: 2001
Genre: Action/War
Where to watch: Netflix

In 2001, the film “Asoka,” which was both directed and co-written by Santosh Sivan, made its debut. This movie featured Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor, and Ajith Kumar as its stars. The story portrays a dramatic interpretation of Emperor Ashoka’s early life, who was born into the powerful Maurya dynasty in the 3rd century BCE and ruled over a significant part of the Indian subcontinent at that time.

In simpler terms, Shah Rukh’s character, Asoka, competes with his older half-brother, Susima Maurya (portrayed by Ajith), for power over the throne. Due to this conflict, Asoka is forced to abandon his royal life and live as an ordinary citizen. He adopts a low-key identity as a traveler in the southern regions. His journey takes an unexpected twist when he encounters Kaurwaki, a princess from the nearby kingdom of Kalinga.

4. Mangal Pandey: The Rising

Cast: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Ameesha Patel
IMDB Rating: 6.5
Release year: 2005
Genre: War/Action
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

In 2005, a historical biographical movie named “Mangal Pandey: The Rising” was released. This film tells the story of Mangal Pandey, an Indian soldier who served in the British East India Company’s army. Aamir Khan portrayed Mangal Pandey in this 2005 production.

As an ardent admirer, let me share my thoughts on Ketan Mehta’s masterful directorial piece. This cinematic journey delves into the pivotal moments preceding the Indian Rebellion of 1857, a historical event often referred to as the First War of Independence. In this captivating tale, the illustrious Rani Mukerji portrays Heera, a courtesan whose life intertwines with that of Mangal Pandey, a character I can’t help but be utterly captivated by.

5. Bajirao Mastani

Cast: Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra
IMDB Rating: 7.3
Release year: 2015
Genre: Romance/Action
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

In the movie “Bajirao Mastani,” which focuses on the life of Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I, actors Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra were cast in the main roles. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this film tells a tale of a romantic love triangle between Bajirao and his two wives: Kashibai and Mastani.

In the tale I’m passionately invested in, I assumed the part of Peshwa Bajirao, while a captivating actress portrayed my second wife, Mastani – a fearless princess hailing from Bundelkhand. Another talented actress brought Kashibai, my first wife, to life on screen. The story unfolds a complex family dynamic as Bajirao’s marriage to Mastani, a woman of Muslim heritage, is met with resistance. A poignant scene showcases Kashibai, filled with sorrow, likening her love for Bajirao to that of Krishna and Rukmini and requesting him never to set foot in her chambers again.

6. The Legend of Bhagat Singh

Cast: Ajay Devgn, Sushant Singh, Amrita Rao
IMDB Rating: 8.1
Release year: 2002
Genre: Action/Drama
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Under the direction of Rajkumar Santoshi, The Legend of Bhagat Singh stands out as one of the top biographical period films in Hindi cinema. In the 2002 film, Ajay Devgn took on the lead role of Bhagat Singh, a freedom fighter who played a significant part in India’s independence struggle. Sushant Singh portrayed Sukhdev, while Rajguru was depicted by D Santosh in this movie.

As a devoted admirer, I recount my journey through the captivating narrative of the film that delves into the life story of Bhagat Singh. From his youth to his transformation into a revolutionary under British rule, this cinematic masterpiece offers an intimate portrayal of his life. Pivotal historical events, such as the Jallianwalla Bagh massacre, the Chori Chaura incident, the confrontation with the Simon Commission during the Lathi charge, and ultimately, Bhagat Singh’s death sentence, are all vividly depicted, providing a gripping account of our nation’s history.

In the film, Amrita Rao portrayed Bhagat Singh’s betrothed. Tragically, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguri were executed by hanging on March 22, 1931, a day prior to their court trial.

7. Mughal-e-Azam

Cast: Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, and Prithviraj Kapoor
IMDB Rating: 8.1
Release year: 1960
Genre: Romance/War
Where to watch: ZEE5

1960 saw the release of the epic historical drama “Mugal-e-Azam,” directed by K Asif. This film features Dilip Kumar as Prince Salim, often referred to as the ‘tragedy king,’ who falls in love with court dancer Anarkali, played by Madhubala. However, Salim’s father, the Mughal emperor Akbar, disapproves of their relationship, causing a rift between them that ultimately leads to conflict. Prithviraj Kapoor also stars in this production.

In the story, Akbar confines Anarkali within a wall, intending to bury her alive in order to preserve Prince Salim’s life. The 1960 film adaptation of this tale remains a timeless classic, cherished even today for its opulence and unforgettable acting performances.

8. Mohenjo Daro

Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Pooja Hegde, and Kabir Bedi
IMDB Rating: 4.1
Release year: 2016
Genre: Action/Adventure
Where to watch: Disney+Hotstar

As a devoted admirer, I’d like to share my perspective on a captivating film titled Mohenjo Daro, masterfully directed by Ashutosh Gowarikar. This movie is set against the backdrop of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization. My character, Sarman, embarks on a journey that leads me to a remarkable city – Mohenjo Daro, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this city, my path crosses with Chaani, a charming resident, whose character is portrayed by Pooja Hegde. The movie chronicles our shared experiences and the blossoming of our love story within the confines of this ancient metropolis.

1. Notably, they both confronted the oppressive rule of Senate Chief Maham (played by Kabir Bedi), a tyrannical figure within the city. Additionally, Arunoday Singh played an essential part in this narrative.

9. Panipat

Cast: Arjun Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Sanjay Dutt
IMDB Rating: 5.2
Release year: 2016
Genre: War/Action
Where to watch: Netflix

According to the Third Battle of Panipat, the movie “Panipat” was released in 2016, featuring Arjun Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Sanjay Dutt. This epic drama portrays the series of events that ultimately culminated in the Battle of Panipat.

I, with a heart brimming with unwavering passion for history, stepped into the shoes of the legendary commander-in-chief, Sadashiv Rao Bhau. In this grand saga, I led the valiant Maratha forces, locked in an epic struggle against the formidable Afghan ruler, Ahmad Shah Abdali, portrayed by none other than Sanjay.

Kriti Sanon was cast as Sadashiv Rao Bau’s wife, Parvati Bai, in the Ashotosh Gowarikar film.

10. Kesari

Cast: Akshay Kumar and Parineeti Chopra
IMDB Rating: 7.4
Release year: 2019
Genre: Action/War
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Back in 2019, I found myself utterly captivated by a film that retold the tale of an extraordinary hero – Havildar Ishar Singh, a Sikh warrior who served in the British Indian Army during the Battle of Saragarhi in 1897. This valiant man was portrayed on the big screen by none other than the action star himself, Akshay Kumar, and alongside him was the talented Parineeti Chopra, who brought to life his wife, Jeevani Kaur. I simply couldn’t get enough of this gripping account of courage and duty!

Under the guidance of director Anurag Singh, the movie Kesari depicted the significant events culminating in a confrontation between 21 brave Sikh warriors and an overwhelming force of 10,000 Afghan tribesmen.

Have you watched these historical dramas? If not, add them to your watchlist.

2024-08-17 22:08