Women-led patriotic films to inspire this Independence Day!

As India commemorates another year of independence, it’s the perfect time to celebrate stories of courage, resilience, and patriotism — not just from history books, but from the silver screen as well. Over the years, Indian cinema has gifted us with many remarkable female-led films that echo the spirit of the nation and the strength of its women.

These films are more than just entertainment. They spotlight extraordinary female characters — some inspired by real-life heroes, others imagined but just as powerful — who rise above adversity, fight for justice, and leave an indelible mark on audiences. From fearless pilots and undercover spies to everyday women who defy the odds, here are some of the most compelling women-led patriotic and socially charged films to watch this Independence Day.

Deepika Padukone in Fighter

In Siddharth Anand’s high-octane aerial action drama Fighter, Deepika Padukone soars — quite literally — as Squadron Leader Minal Rathore, a fearless Indian Air Force officer. Set against the backdrop of a high-stakes mission to counter a deadly terrorist threat, Fighter blends patriotism with edge-of-the-seat action. Deepika’s powerful presence and unwavering spirit shine in every combat scene, making her portrayal one of the film’s most memorable highlights.

Yami Gautam in Article 370

Yami Gautam makes an impactful appearance in Article 370, a political thriller rooted in real events. She plays Zooni Haksar, an intelligence officer at the heart of the operation leading to the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir. With a commanding performance, Yami brings intensity, purpose, and quiet determination to the screen, effectively capturing the high-stakes tension and political complexities of one of India’s most significant Constitutional changes.

Alia Bhatt in Raazi

Alia Bhatt stuns in Raazi as Sehmat Khan, a young Kashmiri woman turned undercover Indian spy during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war. Based on Harinder Sikka’s novel, Calling Sehmat, the film tells the story of a woman who marries a Pakistani military officer to gather intelligence for India. Alia masterfully balances vulnerability with quiet courage, delivering one of her most nuanced and powerful performances to date. Raazi is a compelling tale of duty and emotional conflict.

Kangana Ranaut in Tejas

In Tejas, Kangana Ranaut plays Wing Commander Tejas Gill, an Indian Air Force pilot assigned to a daring mission. The film portrays her journey through complex military operations while navigating personal and societal challenges. With its strong focus on women in combat roles and national service, Tejas is a rousing tribute to the grit and valour of female officers. Kangana delivers a commanding performance.

Sonam Kapoor in Neerja

Neerja is a heart-wrenching retelling of the real-life heroism of Neerja Bhanot, a 22-year-old flight attendant who sacrificed her life saving passengers during the 1986 hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73. Sonam Kapoor brings the brave young woman’s story to life with quiet grace and emotional strength. The film is both a tribute and a reminder of the extraordinary courage that can arise in the most terrifying circumstances.

Kangana Ranaut in Manikarnika

Manikarnika retells the epic tale of Rani Lakshmi Bai, one of India’s first and fiercest freedom fighters. Kangana Ranaut, who also co-directed the film, portrays the iconic queen with fire and passion. From battlefield heroics to defying colonial rule, the film showcases her fight for independence with cinematic grandeur and patriotic fervour, making it an Independence Day must-watch.

Janhvi Kapoor in Gunjan Saxena

Based on the life of Gunjan Saxena — one of the first Indian female pilots in a combat zone — this inspiring biographical drama follows her journey from a small town to the Kargil warfront. Janhvi Kapoor portrays Gunjan with sincerity, capturing the struggles she faces in the male-dominated Indian Air Force, and her resolve to serve her nation. Pankaj Tripathi, as her supportive father, adds emotional depth. Gunjan Saxena is a moving story of breaking barriers and bravery, available to stream on Netflix.

Each of these films is a salute to resilience, courage, and patriotism — proving that when it comes to serving the nation or standing up for what’s right, women lead from the front, on screen and in real life.

Entertainment