With tensions escalating between India and Pakistan, what better way to channel that energy than through cinema? Here's a curated list of films that explore the complex relationship between the two nations, offering a mix of action, drama, and even a touch of romance. However, with the recent advisory from the Indian government to OTT platforms to discontinue streaming content originating from Pakistan, availability of some titles might be affected.
Border (1997)
Directed by J.P. Dutta, Border is an iconic war drama that recreates the 1971 Battle of Longewala. With stellar performances from Sunny Deol, Suniel Shetty, and Jackie Shroff, the film captures the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers facing an overwhelming enemy force. Its intense battle scenes and stirring soundtrack, featuring songs like "Sandese Aate Hain," make it a landmark in Indian cinema.
Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001)
Set against the tragic backdrop of the 1947 Partition, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha tells the story of Tara Singh, a valiant Sikh man, and Sakina, a Muslim woman, whose love triumphs over the communal divide. Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel's powerful portrayals make this film a gut-wrenching yet inspiring love story. The film highlights the human cost of partition and the enduring power of love.
LOC: Kargil (2003)
Another multi-starrer epic by J.P. Dutta, LOC: Kargil recreates the 1999 Kargil War with visceral battle sequences and an ensemble cast portraying real-life soldiers. The film is a tribute to the relentless spirit of the Indian Army. It showcases the challenges and sacrifices made by the soldiers in defending the nation's borders.
Raazi (2018)
Raazi is an espionage thriller with a human touch. The film follows Sehmat, an Indian spy who marries a Pakistani officer to gather intelligence during the 1971 war. It showcases that there are good people on both sides, with Sehmat's husband, Iqbal, respecting her and her nation. The film's narrative is enhanced by its evocative songs like "Aye Watan" and "Dilbaro".
Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
Uri: The Surgical Strike depicts India's retaliation to the 2016 Uri attack. The film showcases how Major Vihaan Singh Shergill leads a covert surgical strike on Pakistani territory, driven by patriotic and personal reasons. Vicky Kaushal's performance and the film's josh-filled narrative made it a box office success.
Fighter (2024)
Inspired by the Balakot Airstrike following the Pulwama attack, Fighter presents modern aerial combat sequences and explores the strategic execution of the mission. The film's focus on aerial warfare sets it apart in the genre.
Sky Force (2025)
This recent film is based on India's counterattack on Pakistan's Sargodha Air Base during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. With its emphasis on aerial strategies and combat, Sky Force pays tribute to the Indian Air Force.
These films offer different perspectives on the India-Pakistan relationship, from the battlefield heroics to the personal stories of love and loss. While the current political climate might affect the availability of some of these films, they remain important cinematic representations of a complex and enduring relationship.