April marks Dalit History Month, a time to honor the sacrifices, struggles, and resilience of the Dalit community, which has fought tirelessly against caste oppression for centuries. It’s an occasion to reflect on their contributions and the inspiring stories of courage that continue to shape a more equitable society.
Cinema is a mirror of society, reflecting its triumphs and challenges, while societal realities deeply influence filmmakers. The two are intertwined. This Dalit History Month, let’s explore the Hindi films that powerfully depict the issue of casteism and the fight for justice. These films not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the best Bollywood films to watch this month.
Directed by Himanshu Rai and produced by Bombay Talkies, Achhoot Kanya is a pioneering film in Indian cinema that boldly addressed casteism. Starring Devika Rani and Ashok Kumar, it tells the tragic love story of Pratap, a Brahmin boy, and Kasturi, a Dalit girl. Growing up as neighbors, their childhood friendship blossoms into love, only to be thwarted by societal prejudices and familial opposition.
The film’s heartbreaking conclusion highlights the rigid caste barriers of the 1930s. Achhoot Kanya was revolutionary for its time, challenging deep-seated caste norms and advocating for love beyond social divides. Its simplicity and powerful message make it a must-watch during Dalit History Month to understand the historical context of caste struggles.
Sujata (1959)
Directed by Bimal Roy, Sujata is a poignant and emotionally rich film that tackles casteism with sensitivity. The film has Mahatma Gandhi's fight against untouchability and the myth of Chandalika in Hinduism as its subtexts, based on which it tries to criticize the practice of untouchability in India.
Featuring Nutan and Sunil Dutt, it follows Sujata, a Dalit girl adopted by a Brahmin family. Though raised with affection, she is never fully accepted as an equal by the family or society. When Sujata falls in love with Adheer, an educated Brahmin, her caste becomes a barrier to their relationship.
The film beautifully weaves themes of love, family, and acceptance while questioning caste prejudices. Nutan’s stellar performance and Roy’s nuanced direction make Sujata a timeless classic. It challenges viewers to consider whether humanity and love can transcend caste boundaries, making it an essential watch this month.
Shyam Benegal’s Ankur is a landmark in Indian parallel cinema, exposing the harsh realities of caste and class exploitation in rural India. The plot is based on a true story that occurred in Hyderabad, apparently in the 1950s. Starring Shabana Azmi and Anant Nag, the film centers on Surya, a landlord’s son, who arrives in a village to manage his father’s estate. There, he encounters Lakshmi, a Dalit woman, and her mute, alcoholic husband, Kishtaya.
Surya’s attraction to Lakshmi leads to her exploitation, highlighting the intersection of caste, gender, and feudal power dynamics. The film unflinchingly portrays the brutality of the caste system and societal inequities. Azmi’s powerful debut earned her a National Award, and Ankur remains a cinematic gem for its raw depiction of oppression, perfect for Dalit History Month.
Directed by Shekhar Kapur, Bandit Queen is a raw and controversial biopic based on the life of Phoolan Devi, portrayed brilliantly by Seema Biswas. Phoolan, a lower-caste woman, endures relentless caste-based and gender-based violence from childhood, culminating in a horrific gang rape by upper-caste men. Driven by rage and a quest for justice, she becomes a bandit, seeking vengeance against her oppressors. The film exposes the brutal realities of casteism, misogyny, and systemic injustice in rural India. Its unflinching realism shook audiences and earned critical acclaim.
The film won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, Filmfare Critics Award for Best Movie, and Best Direction for that year. The film premiered in the Directors' Fortnight section of the 1994 Cannes Film Festival, and was screened at the Edinburgh Film Festival. The film was selected as the Indian entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 67th Academy Awards, but was not accepted as a nominee.
Prakash Jha’s Aarakshan is a thought-provoking drama exploring India’s caste-based reservation policy. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Prateik Babbar, the film follows Prabhakar Anand, an idealistic college principal who supports affirmative action. The story delves into the tensions and debates surrounding reservations in education and jobs, revealing how caste continues to shape opportunities and conflicts. By presenting both sides of the issue—supporters and critics of reservation—Aarakshan offers a balanced yet compelling narrative. It encourages viewers to reflect on the historical roots of caste discrimination and its modern implications, making it a relevant choice for this month.
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Masaan is a lyrical and moving film set in Varanasi, weaving together stories of love, loss, and caste. Featuring Richa Chadha and Vicky Kaushal, it follows two parallel narratives. One focuses on Deepak, a Dalit boy from a cremation-ground worker’s family, who falls in love with Shaalu, an upper-caste girl, only to face societal barriers. The other tracks Devi, a woman challenging social norms. The film subtly portrays the pervasive impact of caste on personal aspirations and relationships, blending raw emotion with poetic storytelling. Acclaimed at Cannes, Masaan is a profound reflection on caste and individuality, ideal for this month.
Directed by Anubhav Sinha, Article 15 is a gripping police drama inspired by real-life caste-based atrocities, including the Badaun case in Uttar Pradesh. Ayushmann Khurrana stars as Ayan Ranjan, a Brahmin IPS officer posted in a rural village, where he investigates the rape and murder of two Dalit girls. His probe uncovers deep-seated casteism, police corruption, and societal apathy. The film draws its title from Article 15 of the Indian Constitution, which prohibits discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender. With its hard-hitting realism and powerful dialogues, Article 15 forces viewers to confront the persistence of caste violence in contemporary India, making it a must-watch during Dalit History Month.
Nikhil Advani’s Vedaa is a recent action-drama that resonates with themes of justice and empowerment. Starring John Abraham and Sharvari Wagh, it follows Vedaa, a Dalit girl who rises against the injustices faced by her community. Facing caste-based violence and oppression, she transforms into a fierce warrior, guided by a mentor (Abraham) who supports her fight. Blending high-octane action with emotional depth, Vedaa highlights casteism while celebrating resilience and resistance. Sharvari’s commanding performance and the film’s bold narrative have earned it praise, making it an inspiring choice.
Dalit History Month reminds us that cinema is more than entertainment—it’s a catalyst for awareness and change. From the groundbreaking Achhoot Kanya to the contemporary Vedaa, these films illuminate the long battle against casteism and celebrate the courage of those who resist. They urge us to question whether we are truly moving toward an inclusive society. This month, watch these films, engage with their messages, and share their stories to inspire others.
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