Sharman Joshi: Rang De Basanti is a cult film Hindi cinema will remember forever

Actor Sharman Joshi reflects on the 20th anniversary of the iconic film "Rang De Basanti," declaring it a cult classic that Hindi cinema will remember forever. He expresses gratitude for being part of such a rare film that continues to resonate across generations. Joshi recalls the shooting experience as immensely enjoyable, never feeling like work. The film was critically acclaimed, winning a National Award and receiving nominations for major international honors like the BAFTAs.

Key Points: Rang De Basanti 20 Years: Sharman Joshi on Cult Film Legacy

  • Film marks 20th anniversary
  • Sharman Joshi calls it a cult classic
  • Inspired story of freedom fighters and modern youth
  • Won National Award, nominated for BAFTA
  • Joshi ranks it alongside 3 Idiots
2 min read

Sharman Joshi on Rang De Basanti turning 20: Hindi cinema will remember forever

As Rang De Basanti turns 20, Sharman Joshi calls it a memorable cult film that Hindi cinema will remember forever. Read his reflections.

Sharman Joshi on Rang De Basanti turning 20: Hindi cinema will remember forever
"Rang De Basanti is a memorable film, a cult film and a film that Hindi cinema will remember forever. - Sharman Joshi"

Mumbai, Jan 26

As the coming-of-age political action film "Rang De Basanti" clocked 20 years since its release, actor Sharman Joshi said that Hindi cinema will remember the Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra directorial forever.

"Time flies," said Sharman as the film turned 20-years-old.

Rang De Basanti follows a British film student traveling to India to document the story of five freedom fighters of the Indian revolutionary movement. She befriends and casts five young men in the film, which inspires them to fight against the evils of their own present-day government.

It also stars Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan along with names such as Siddharth, Atul Kulkarni, Kunal Kapoor, British actress Alice Patten, Waheeda Rehman, and Soha Ali Khan.

"Rang De Basanti is a memorable film, a cult film and a film that Hindi cinema will remember forever. I was fortunate and blessed enough to be a part of a rare cinema that continues to touch people from across generations."

For Sharman, Rang De Basanti, and 3 Idiots stand at the top throughout his work.

"And I feel so fortunate that I was given the opportunity by the Almighty, the directors and producers, to be part of such wonderful films," he expressed.

Further, the actor looks back at the shooting days, recalling memories where shooting the film didn't feel like work.

"I had the most fun shooting the film, it never felt like work - but every scene, every laugh , every shot, and every emotion added to my experience that I will cherish forever," he added.

The film was honoured with a National Film Award for Best Popular Film and was also nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 2007 BAFTA Awards. Additionally, the film was also chosen as India's official entry for the Golden Globe Awards and Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
A timeless classic. The way it connected the freedom struggle with contemporary issues was brilliant. The soundtrack is still on my playlist. Sharman Joshi was fantastic, but the entire ensemble cast was perfect. A film that truly defined a generation.
R
Rohit P
While I appreciate the film's impact, I feel we should also discuss its messaging critically. Taking the law into your own hands is not the solution it portrayed. We have democratic institutions for a reason. Great cinema, but the ending always made me a bit uneasy.
S
Sarah B
Watched this as an exchange student in Delhi. It was my introduction to modern Indian cinema beyond the typical song-and-dance. The passion and patriotism were palpable, yet it asked tough questions. It stayed with me long after I returned home.
K
Karthik V
20 saal? Yaad dilaya toh laga pata hi nahi chala! This movie, along with 3 Idiots, are Sharman's best work for sure. The scene at India Gate... iconic. It sparked so many discussions in my family. Abhi bhi relevant hai, sadly. 🙏
N
Nisha Z
The music! A.R. Rahman at his absolute best. "Luka Chuppi" and "Khalbali" are masterpieces. The film had style, substance, and soul. It made us proud to be Indian while also holding a mirror to our society. A true cult film.

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