From Reel to Real: Bollywood Biopics that Inspired Audiences
These biopics not only showcase extraordinary true stories but also inspire audiences to overcome odds, value courage, and recognize real-life heroes from all walks of life.
Shershaah (2021)
Based on the courageous life of Captain Vikram Batra, a Kargil War hero. This emotional, patriotic film highlights sacrifice and valour.
Directed by Vishnuvardhan
Starring: Sidharth Malhotra, Kiara Advani
Sardar Udham (2021)
Chronicles the journey of Udham Singh, an Indian revolutionary who avenged the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre.
Directed by Shoojit Sircar
Starring: Vicky Kaushal
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)
Depicts the rise of Milkha Singh, the ÔFlying Sikh,Õ overcoming personal tragedy and adversity to become a world-renowned athlete.
Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Starring: Farhan Akhtar
Paan Singh Tomar (2012)
The story of an Army man and national athlete who turned rebel, spotlighting the struggles of rural India.
Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia
Starring: Irrfan Khan
Dangal (2016)
Follows wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and the journey of his daughters Geeta and Babita to wrestling glory.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari
Starring: Aamir Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Sanya Malhotra
M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016)
Presents the inspiring journey of cricketer MS Dhoni, from a ticket collector to IndiaÕs World Cup-winning captain.
Directed by: Neeraj Pandey
Starring: Sushant Singh Rajput
Neerja (2016)
The brave story of air hostess Neerja Bhanot, who sacrificed her life saving passengers during a 1986 hijacking.
Directed by Ram Madhvani
Starring: Sonam Kapoor
Mary Kom (2014)
Follows boxing legend Mary KomÕs rise and resilience despite social and personal challenges.
Directed by Omung Kumar
Starring: Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)
Based on the life of a Mumbai brothel madam who championed sex worker rights and rose to power in a male-dominated world.
Directed by: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Starring: Alia Bhatt
Sanju (2018)
The dramatic and controversial life journey of actor Sanjay Dutt, exploring fame, scandal, prison, and redemption.
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani
Starring: Ranbir Kapoor, Paresh Rawal
The Dirty Picture (2011)
Inspired by the life of Silk Smitha, portraying boldness, ambition, and tragedy in the Indian film world.
Directed by: Milan Luthria
Starring: Vidya Balan
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Brings to life the legacy of revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh and his fight against British rule.
Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi
Starring: Ajay Devgn
Mangal Pandey (2005)
Portrays the sacrifice of Mangal Pandey, whose act of rebellion triggered the First War of Indian Independence.
Directed by Ketan Mehta
Starring: Aamir Khan