Notable Indian Films Addressing the Emergency Period and Political Crises

Emergency is a historical biographical drama film in Hindi, directed and co-produced by Kangana Ranaut, the film focuses on the Indian Emergency and features Kangana Ranaut in the role of Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India.

In India, the concept of “emergency” has been depicted in numerous films, particularly against the backdrop of political and social turmoil, as well as individual and national crises. A pivotal moment in Indian history linked to the term “Emergency” occurred between 1975 and 1977, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi proclaimed a state of Emergency, resulting in extensive political and civil disorder. Various films have either addressed this era or drawn inspiration from it, exploring themes of emergencies and crises. Below is an overview of some prominent Indian films.

1. “Emergency” (2025) – This political drama, directed by and featuring Kangana Ranaut, delves into the era of India’s Emergency (1975–77) and centers on the life of Indira Gandhi, the Prime Minister responsible for declaring the Emergency.

2. “The Tashkent Files” (2019) – Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, this political thriller investigates the enigmatic circumstances surrounding the death of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, in 1966, which is occasionally associated with the political tensions that preceded the Emergency.

3. “Kissa Kursi Ka” (1977) – A satirical work directed by Amrit Nahata, this film faced a government ban due to its incisive critique of the Indira Gandhi administration during the Emergency. It metaphorically addresses the authoritarian governance and political climate of that era.

4. “Nishant” (1975) – Directed by Shyam Benegal, this film examines the exploitation faced by rural villagers. Although it does not explicitly focus on the Emergency, it highlights themes of authority and societal control that were pertinent to the political environment of the 1970s.

5. “Rakhwala” (1971) – While not specifically centered on the Emergency, this film featuring Dharmendra address’s themes of political oppression and the challenges faced by ordinary citizens in their resistance against state authority.

India films that directly or indirectly explore the theme of “emergency” has been relatively small, with many focusing primarily on political crises or natural disasters. Nevertheless, given the ongoing relevance of this period in Indian history, it is likely that additional films and documentaries will be produced in the future that investigate this theme more thoroughly.

Also Read: Emergency Box Office Collection Day 1: Biggest Opening In 5 Years Yet Fails To Hit The Mark

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