TV
April 14th is celebrated as Ambedkar Jayanti each year to honour the birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a visionary social reformer, jurist, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution.
Born in 1891, Ambedkar’s relentless advocacy for equality, education, and justice transformed Indian society. The day is marked by tributes, processions, and educational events across India, reflecting on his enduring legacy. Ambedkar Jayanti not only commemorates his contributions but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for social justice.
On this special occasion, here are 10 movies like Tamil heartthrob Suriya’s ‘Jai Bhim’ that focus on Ambedkar and his ideologies:
1. Court (2014) – Marathi: A poignant, understated courtroom drama exploring the disconnect between the justice system and the marginalized.
2. Article 15 (2019) – Hindi: Inspired by true events, this film explores caste-based discrimination in rural India, starring Ayushmann Khurrana.
3. Karnan (2021) – Tamil: A powerful film by Mari Selvaraj that depicts caste-based oppression and rebellion, starring Dhanush.
4. Asuran (2019) – Tamil: Based on true events, this film shows how a Dalit family resists violent caste oppression. Dhanush gives a stunning performance.
5. Periyar (2007) – Tamil (Biopic): A biographical film on the life of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, a social reformer who fought against caste and religious orthodoxy.
6. Nagraj Manjule's Trilogy (Marathi):
Fandry (2013) – A touching coming-of-age story of a Dalit boy who falls in love with an upper-caste girl.
Sairat (2016) – A love story that turns tragic due to caste-based honor killing.
Jhund (2022) – Based on real events, starring Amitabh Bachchan, showing slum kids overcoming barriers through football.
7. Mandela (2021) – Tamil: A political satire that uses humor to address caste divisions in rural Tamil Nadu. Yogi Babu is phenomenal.
8. Bheed (2023) – Hindi: Directed by Anubhav Sinha, it draws parallels between the COVID lockdown and Partition, while exploring caste, class, and migration.
9. Pariyerum Perumal (2018) – Tamil: Directed by Mari Selvaraj, this is a deeply emotional film about a law student facing caste oppression.
10. Visaranai (2015) – Tamil: A disturbing film about police brutality and systemic corruption, based on true events.
