Randeep Hooda’s directorial debut, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, has ignited passionate debates. The film delves into the life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle. Let’s explore this biopic in simple terms.
- The Heroic Narrative: The movie paints Savarkar as a neglected hero, overshadowed by other freedom fighters. It argues that if we had heeded his advice, India might have gained independence sooner. His advocacy of militarism and his influence on revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Subhas Chandra Bose take center stage.
- Challenging Gandhi’s Legacy: The film boldly challenges Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy. It portrays him as stodgy, soft on the British, and an obstacle to India’s freedom. The assassination of Gandhi’s character precedes his actual slaying, creating a provocative narrative.
- Atmospheric Cinematography: Arvind Krishna’s cinematography adds intrigue. Deep shadows and a desaturated palette accompany Savarkar’s journey from England to the notorious Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Unanswered Questions: Why has Savarkar been denied his rightful place among freedom fighters? Why do Gandhi and the Congress own the narrative? These questions drive the film’s exploration.
- British Tyranny and Secret Societies: Savarkar’s secret society, formed in 1904, fights British oppression. His imprisonment in Cellular Jail exposes brutal treatment by the British warden and a Muslim jailer.
In summary, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar is a thought-provoking biopic that challenges historical narratives. Whether you agree or disagree, it’s a film that sparks conversations.