With student-led protests once again making
headlines in India, several Bollywood films that portray campus
politics, youth activism and ideological struggles have regained
attention. From university elections to anti-corruption campaigns and
political movements, these films examine how student life often
intersects with national politics.
Raanjhanaa (2013)
Although
it begins as a romantic drama, ''Raanjhanaa'' gradually shifts into a
political narrative set against a university environment inspired by
Delhi's Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The story follows the rise of
a student political movement that organises demonstrations and hunger
strikes over allegations of corruption.
Aarakshan (2011)
Directed
by Prakash Jha, ''Aarakshan'' explores the contentious issue of
caste-based reservation in education. The film depicts how a Supreme
Court verdict sparks divisions between students supporting and opposing
the quota system, leading to unrest on campus.
Gulaal (2009)
Anurag
Kashyap's ''Gulaal'' presents a dark portrayal of student union
politics in Rajasthan. The film combines campus elections with regional
identity issues and separatist politics, highlighting the violent
consequences of power struggles.
Rang De Basanti (2006)
Widely
regarded as one of Bollywood's defining political dramas, ''Rang De
Basanti'' follows a group of carefree university friends whose lives
change after the death of a fellow student serving as an Indian Air
Force pilot. Their search for justice evolves into a broader movement
against corruption and political misconduct.
Hazaaron Khwahishein Aisi (2005)
Set
during India's Emergency in the 1970s, Sudhir Mishra's ''Hazaaron
Khwahishein Aisi'' traces the lives of three university students whose
personal journeys are shaped by political upheaval and differing
ideological beliefs.
Yuva (2004)
Mani
Ratnam's ''Yuva'' tells the interconnected stories of three young men
from contrasting backgrounds. At its centre is a student leader whose
involvement in campus politics eventually leads him into mainstream
politics with the goal of reforming the system.
Haasil (2003)
Directed
by Tigmanshu Dhulia, ''Haasil'' offers a realistic depiction of student
politics at Allahabad University. The film explores the influence of
criminal groups, power struggles and violence on campus, portraying the
darker side of university political life.
source: News18
