Indian cinema has a rich history of war movies that depict the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of soldiers. From historical battles to modern-day conflicts, these films offer a glimpse into the lives of those who serve and protect the nation. Here are some of the best war movies that deserve a watch.

Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)

Directed by Aditya Dhar, Uri: The Surgical Strike is based on the 2016 surgical strikes conducted by the Indian Army in retaliation for the terrorist attack in Uri. The film stars Vicky Kaushal as Major Vihaan Shergill and showcases the planning and execution of the strike with precision and কৌশল. Uri is a thrilling depiction of India's military might and instills a deep sense of pride. The film is known for the iconic line "How's the josh?" which became a nationwide sensation.

Shershaah (2021)

Shershaah, directed by Vishnuvardhan, tells the story of Captain Vikram Batra, a পরম বীর চক্র (PVC) awardee, whose bravery and unflinching courage during the Kargil War in 1999 led to India's victory. Sidharth Malhotra portrays Batra's life, showcasing his journey, his love for the nation, and his ultimate sacrifice. Shershaah is a moving tribute to a war hero and a testament to the spirit of the Indian soldier.

Border (1997)

J.P. Dutta's Border is an iconic war film based on the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. The film depicts the bravery and camaraderie of a battalion of Indian soldiers, led by Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri (played by Sunny Deol), as they face a much larger Pakistani force. Border is known for its emotional depth, gripping action sequences, and memorable soundtrack, questioning the very purpose of war.

Lakshya (2004)

Directed by Farhan Akhtar, Lakshya is a coming-of-age war film that follows Karan Shergill (Hrithik Roshan), a young man who finds purpose in life after joining the Indian Army. Set against the backdrop of the Kargil War, the film portrays Shergill's transformation from a carefree youth to a dedicated soldier. Lakshya is a story of self-discovery, courage, and determination.

Other notable war movies:

• Haqeeqat (1964): Chetan Anand's Haqeeqat is a classic portrayal of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, focusing on the struggles and sacrifices of Indian soldiers in the harsh conditions of Ladakh.
• The Ghazi Attack (2017): Sankalp Reddy's The Ghazi Attack is a war film set during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, depicting the underwater battle between Indian and Pakistani submarines.
• Sam Bahadur (2023): A biographical war drama based on the life of India's first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw, played by Vicky Kaushal, highlighting his role in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War.
• Fighter (2024): An aerial action film about the Indian Air Force and the challenges they encounter, referencing the 2019 Pulwama attack and the Balakot airstrike.

These films not only entertain but also serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by soldiers to protect the nation. They explore universal themes of courage, duty, and the human cost of conflict, reflecting societal attitudes toward war. Whether it's a historical epic or a modern-day thriller, Indian war movies continue to captivate audiences and evoke a sense of patriotism.