Rachel Shelley looks back on 'Lagaan' journey as iconic film celebrates 25 years
Mumbai, June 14
As Aamir Khan starrer 'Lagaan' completed twenty-five years since it hit theatres, British actor Rachel Shelley looked back on the experience with gratitude and affection.
The actor, who played Elizabeth Russell in the Oscar-nominated period drama, shared a video on Instagram as the film marked its silver jubilee. Reflecting on her journey with 'Lagaan,' Shelley said the memories of the film continue to stay with her even after all these years.
"Sometimes I feel like it was just yesterday," she said. "And other times, it feels like another lifetime ago."
The actor also credited viewers for keeping the film alive over the years. While recalling the love that 'Lagaan' has received across generations and across countries, Shelley said the viewers played an equally important role in the film's legacy.
Sharing her thoughts on the bond between filmmakers and audiences, she said that while the cast and crew may create a film, it is the audience that truly gives it life and meaning.
"I have to say that I feel as the cast and crew, we make the film," she explained. "But the audience, by watching it, by giving it so much love and support over the years, you're the ones who complete the film."
"It's with me every day," she noted. "It's informed every piece of work I have ever done since."
Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and produced by Aamir Khan, 'Lagaan' was released in 2001 and went on to become one of India's most acclaimed films. Set during the British Raj in 1893, the story follows the residents of a drought-hit village who challenge British rulers to a game of cricket in a bid to escape crushing taxes.
Aamir Khan played the role of Bhuvan, while Rachel Shelley portrayed Elizabeth Russell, the compassionate sister of British officer Captain Andrew Russell, played by Paul Blackthorne. In one of the film's most memorable storylines, Elizabeth secretly teaches the villagers the game of cricket, helping them prepare for the high-stakes match.
The film earned widespread acclaim both in India and internationally. It received an Academy Award nomination in the Best Foreign Language Film category and won several honours, including National Film Awards.
To celebrate its 25th anniversary, 'Lagaan' returned to theatres for a special three-day re-release from June 12 to June 14. The milestone was also marked with a reunion hosted by Aamir Khan, that brought together several members of the original cast and crew, including Paul Blackthorne, Rajendranath Zutshi, Aditya Lakhia and Yashpal Sharma.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As someone from the UK who watched Lagaan for the first time last year—I can't believe I waited so long! The cricket, the music, the story of resistance... it's all so brilliantly done. Rachel Shelley's character Elizabeth was my favorite, and it's wonderful to see her still talking about this film with such warmth. Truly a classic.
What a gracious statement from Rachel Shelley! Her humility in crediting the audience for completing the film is rare in today's celebrity culture. But I do hope the re-release brings more focus on the unsung heroes—cinematographer Piyush Shah's visuals, A.R. Rahman's genius soundtrack, and the brilliant casting of villagers who were actually from the region. That's what made Lagaan feel so authentic. 🎬
I remember watching Lagaan in a tiny theater in New Jersey with my Indian friends—half the audience was crying when Bhuvan hits the winning shot! Rachel Shelley's performance as Elizabeth was so integral; she brought a touch of humanity to a colonial role that could easily have been one-dimensional. 25 years later, this film still packs an emotional punch. Chale Chalo is still my go-to pump-up song! 🏏
While I love Lagaan as much as any Indian, I have to point out that the historical inaccuracies sometimes bother me—the British officers would never have agreed to such a match in reality, and the cricket rules seemed bent for drama. But hey, it's cinema, not a documentary! And the spirit of Indian resistance against colonial oppression is beautifully captured. Rachel Shelley's reflection reminds us why this film remains timeless. Just wish we saw more critical takes on its colonial-era nostalgia from modern audiences.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.