Cinema VinesThe Jantar Mantar protests in Delhi are gaining traction as more social activists, celebrities and supporters of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) join students in their demonstrations. The movement has once again thrust student‑led resistance into the national spotlight, echoing the themes that have long been explored in cinema.
Four Indian films stand out for their vivid portrayals of campus activism and the awakening of young voices. In Jana Gana Mana, directed by Dijo Jose Antony and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, a political thriller unfolds around student protests triggered by alleged police brutality after the death of a socially conscious college professor. The film examines how students demand accountability and justice, emphasizing that their voices must be heard amid ongoing debates about the education system.
Malayalam cinema’s Varthamanam, directed by Sidhartha Siva and written by Aryadan Shoukath, presents a fearless look at student politics. It follows students who confront caste discrimination and fascism, only to be branded as anti‑national. Parvathy Thiruvothu delivers a powerful performance as Faiza, with Roshan Mathew, as they navigate a polarised environment, offering a sharp commentary on dissent and the cost of speaking truth to power.
In Bollywood, Rang De Basanti remains a modern classic. The story follows a group of carefree youngsters who are cast as Indian freedom fighters in a documentary. As they immerse themselves in the lives of the revolutionaries they portray, they experience a profound political awakening. Led by Aamir Khan, the film evolves into a powerful narrative of youth‑led resistance against corruption and injustice, inspiring an entire generation to engage with social and political issues.
Another Hindi film that tackles campus politics is Yuva, directed by Mani Ratnam. The story intertwines the lives of three young men after an assassination attempt. At its core is Michael, played by Ajay Devgn, an idealistic student leader who believes in transforming society through politics, and Arjun, portrayed by Vivek Oberoi, who moves from apathy to political consciousness. Yuva blends campus politics, student activism and electoral power struggles, remaining one of Hindi cinema’s most compelling explorations of youth participation in democracy.
