A New Era of Biographical Storytelling in Indian Cinema
The years 2024 and 2025 have witnessed a cinematic transformation with a strong resurgence of biopics across Indian screens and streaming platforms. With a focus on telling authentic, inspirational stories of trailblazers, these films resonate deeply with audiences seeking substance beyond fiction. From celebrated political figures and social reformers to unsung heroes in music and sports, filmmakers are increasingly exploring real lives that shaped history. Here is a carefully curated list of seven impactful biopics released in 2024 and 2025 that you should not miss.
1.Phule (2025): Telling the story of India’s first educational reformers
Released in April 2025, Phule is a powerful dramatization of the lives of Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule, who were among the earliest social reformers fighting caste discrimination and advocating for universal education in India. Directed by Anant Mahadevan, this film stars Pratik Gandhi and Patralekha in transformative roles. It stands out for its historically grounded storytelling and detailed period recreation. The narrative captures the couple’s struggle against a rigid society and their unwavering dedication to building an inclusive future through education. The theatrical release has already sparked meaningful conversations about caste, education, and reform.
2.Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (2024): A bold cinematic look at a controversial freedom fighter
Directed by and starring Randeep Hooda, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar released in March 2024 and dives into the politically charged life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar. The film does not shy away from showcasing both the celebrated and debated aspects of Savarkar’s ideology. It presents a layered narrative that spans his revolutionary activities against British rule, his time in prison, and his evolving philosophies. The film’s cinematography, coupled with Hooda’s intense performance, has given audiences a raw and compelling insight into a complex figure of Indian history.
3.Srikanth (2024): A vision of hope from India’s most inspiring entrepreneur
Srikanth, which hit the theatres in May 2024, stars Rajkummar Rao as Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired man who defied social and physical challenges to build a successful enterprise. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, the film documents Srikanth’s journey from a small village in Andhra Pradesh to becoming a symbol of grit and innovation in the corporate world. Rao’s portrayal highlights the emotional strength and relentless determination of a man who changed perceptions about disability. The film is both an uplifting personal story and a broader commentary on accessibility and inclusion in modern India.
4.Amar Singh Chamkila (2024): A musical icon’s controversial and tragic rise
Released on Netflix in April 2024, Amar Singh Chamkila explores the life of the iconic Punjabi singer who gained fame in the 1980s for his provocative lyrics and electrifying performances. Directed by Imtiaz Ali and starring Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra, the film paints a vivid picture of Chamkila’s rise to stardom and his untimely death. What makes this biopic stand apart is its authentic use of Chamkila’s original music and the faithful recreation of the socio-political atmosphere of Punjab during the era. The film’s layered treatment of fame, censorship, and cultural resistance makes it a standout in musical biopics.
5.Chandu Champion (2024): Bringing India’s first Paralympic gold medallist to life
Kabir Khan’s Chandu Champion, released in June 2024, is based on the inspiring journey of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist. Featuring Kartik Aaryan in his most physically demanding role to date, the film traces Petkar’s life from his army background to his transformation into a sports legend following an injury during the 1965 war. The film captures the athlete’s perseverance and his battle against odds in a world that often overlooks para-athletes. With emotional storytelling and strong performances, it provides a stirring tribute to courage and determination.
6.Padatik (2024): A poetic portrait of Bengali cinema legend Mrinal Sen
Srijit Mukherji’s Padatik, released in August 2024, is a poignant tribute to the legendary Bengali filmmaker Mrinal Sen. The film stars Chanchal Chowdhury in a role that celebrates Sen’s unique artistic vision, his political ideologies, and the impact he left on parallel cinema in India. Released on Independence Day, the film interweaves scenes from Sen’s personal life with major moments in India’s cinematic evolution. Padatik resonates deeply with cinephiles and social thinkers alike, making it one of the most intellectually engaging biopics of the year.
7.Main Atal Hoon (2024): Reflecting on a statesman’s legacy
Released in January 2024, Main Atal Hoon stars Pankaj Tripathi as Atal Bihari Vajpayee, former Prime Minister of India and a poet-politician revered across party lines. Directed by Ravi Jadhav, the film offers a heartfelt exploration of Vajpayee’s political journey, his leadership style, and his quiet strength during defining moments in India’s history. Tripathi brings a measured and graceful performance, capturing the essence of a leader who balanced ideology with empathy. This biopic not only honors a political figure but also humanizes his personal beliefs and poetic soul.
Biopics That Echo India’s Diversity and Spirit
These biopics released in 2024 and 2025 do more than tell individual stories, they document India’s diverse socio-political landscape, cultural shifts, and the human will to triumph over adversity. With a mix of theatrical and OTT releases, these films have broadened the reach of biographical cinema, inviting new generations to learn from history through art. As Indian filmmakers continue to embrace realism, the biopic genre is set to thrive with more powerful narratives and unforgettable performances.