Discussions regarding the education system have intensified in the country recently. The scandal involving the leak of NEET examination tickets, student demonstrations, the Sonam Wangchuk movement, and youth demands for reforms in the educational system have captured the nation's attention.
Cinematic Reflection of Protests
In this atmosphere, student protests are actively discussed on social media, bringing to mind many Bollywood films that did not just entertain but powerfully depicted anger, struggle, politics, and the pursuit of change among students on the big screen. Seven such movies are presented.
Films About Struggle and Change
'Rang De Basanti' (2006) is considered one of the most iconic films about student movements. In it, a group of carefree college students raises their voice against a corrupt system after the death of a friend, and their protest gradually transforms into a large-scale popular movement. Today, as youth speak about the education system and governmental accountability, this film seems very relevant.
'Yuva' (2004) by Manratnam demonstrates the power of student politics. In the film, Ajay Devgn plays an energetic student leader who urges the youth not just to protest, but also to participate in politics to change the system. This picture shows that change comes not only through slogans but also through participation.
Historical and Social Themes
Sudhir Mishra's film 'Hazaron Khwahishen Aisey' (2005) narrates political upheavals and student movements of the 1970s. Through the lives of three students from St. Stephen's College, the film shows how youth risk their entire lives for social transformation. It seriously illuminates the Naxalite movement and the political consciousness of students.
Anurag Kashyap's 'Gulal' (2009) presents university politics, the thirst for power, separatism, and clashes between student organizations in a raw and realistic manner. The film asserts that student movements are not limited to idealism but sometimes become part of the political struggle for power.
Politics and Social Justice
'Haasil' (2003) tells a story of politics, crime, and the youth's struggle against the backdrop of student politics at Aligarh University. The film demonstrates how politics in educational institutions is often subject to the influence of force and crime, which affects the future of students.
Prakash Jha's film 'Aarakshan' (2011) is based on sensitive issues such as the education system, social justice, and reservation. The film focuses on demonstrations, protests, and student debates regarding reservation policy. It shows how decisions concerning education affect the entire society and youth.
Memory of Mass Movements
'Hurdang' (2022) is directly related to the Mandela Commission movement of the 1990s. Through students studying at Aligarh University, the film illustrates how mass student protests against government decisions swept across the country. In the current era, when demonstrations over education and youth are once again observed, this film serves as a reminder of those historical movements.
