In Bollywood, the allure of patriotism and national pride has often translated into cinematic narratives centered around the tricolor, India's national flag. In recent years, several films have attempted to capture this sentiment, with varying degrees of success. While some soared at the box office, others stumbled, becoming the subject of ridicule due to perceived missteps.

The year 2024 witnessed a mixed bag of cinematic offerings in this genre. Among the films that aimed to evoke patriotic fervor, three managed to strike a chord with the audience, while one, in particular, became a laughing stock due to a significant blunder related to the tricolor.

The Hits:

Several Bollywood movies that were released in 2024 managed to attract the audience, but horror-comedy movies did comparatively well. "Stree 2" was a commercial success, grossing ₹597 crore.

Dhurandhar, released on December 5, 2025, received mixed-to-positive reviews, with praise for the cast, direction, cinematography, and action sequences, though some criticism was directed at its runtime.

Sky Force, an action-drama directed by Sandeep Kelwani and starring Akshay Kumar, also garnered positive attention. Based on real-life aerial missions, the film blended intense storytelling with spectacular visuals, appealing to audiences seeking a thrilling cinematic experience.

The Miss:

One film that particularly missed the mark was centered around armed forces, which became a subject of ridicule due to a scene involving the incorrect depiction of the tricolor. Details surrounding the specific film and the nature of the tricolor blunder are limited, but the gaffe was significant enough to draw widespread attention and criticism. This misstep overshadowed any potential merits the film may have had, leading to its downfall at the box office and earning it a place among Bollywood's biggest blunders.

The failure of this particular film underscores the importance of meticulous attention to detail when portraying national symbols in cinema. The tricolor holds immense significance for Indians, representing the country's sovereignty, values, and aspirations. Any misrepresentation, intentional or unintentional, can be perceived as disrespectful and deeply offensive, leading to negative publicity and rejection by audiences.

Lessons Learned:

The divergent fates of these films offer valuable lessons for Bollywood filmmakers venturing into the patriotic genre. While a compelling storyline, strong performances, and high production values are essential, accuracy and sensitivity in portraying national symbols are equally crucial. Filmmakers must ensure that their creative vision does not come at the expense of national sentiments.

The incident also highlights the increasing scrutiny that Bollywood films face from a discerning audience. Social media platforms have empowered viewers to voice their opinions and concerns, making it easier for controversies to erupt and impact a film's prospects. In this environment, filmmakers must be mindful of the potential for backlash and strive to create content that is both entertaining and respectful.

As Bollywood continues to explore themes of patriotism and national identity, it is imperative that filmmakers approach these subjects with diligence, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the values they represent. The success stories demonstrate the potential for cinematic narratives to inspire and unite, while the failures serve as cautionary tales, reminding filmmakers of the importance of accuracy and respect.