Swatantra Veer Savarkar Review: Swatantra Veer Savarkar, directed by debutant Randeep Hooda, delves into the life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a prominent figure in India’s freedom struggle. In this biopic, Savarkar is portrayed as a mastermind who influenced armed revolutionaries, including renowned figures like Bhagat Singh and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
However, the film takes liberties with historical accuracy, depicting interactions and events that lack evidence. In a bid to bring his untold story to the forefront, Randeep Hooda’s film ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ attempts to shed light on the life and sacrifices of this polarizing figure.
Swatantra Veer Savarkar Review
The story of the film ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar‘ starts with the plague epidemic. Savarkar’s father was infected with the plague epidemic. British police officers burn alive all the people infected with the plague epidemic, including Savarkar’s father. Savarkar has had hatred towards British rule since childhood.
After growing up, Abhinav forms the Bharat Secret Society for the independence of the country and in this organization, he joins the youth of the country who want to liberate India from the slavery of the British.
He goes to London to study law and tries to strengthen his organization from there and due to this, he gets sentenced to Kalapani. After serving his sentence in Kala Pani, he is arrested for his involvement in the conspiracy to assassinate Mahatma Gandhi but is released due to lack of evidence.
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In the film ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’, which tries to show the unheard aspects of Savarkar’s life, the emphasis is on the fact that he was not at all influenced by Gandhi’s non-violence ideology. He respects Gandhi but opposes his ideology.
In this film, along with the ideology of Subhash Chandra Bose and Savarkar, it was also told that the great hero of developing the political ideology of Hindu nationalism goes to Savarkar.
Through this nearly three-hour-long film, Randeep Hooda has thrown light on such aspects of Savarkar’s life, of which the general public is completely unaware. Through this film, he has also raised the question of why no Congress leader was punished for Kala Pani?
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A Fiery Patriot or a Violent Extremist?
Some hailed Savarkar as a devout patriot, while others labelled him a ‘bomb golavala’ (bomb-thrower) who incited violence. Accused and acquitted of multiple conspiracy theories, including Gandhi’s assassination, Savarkar’s life was a tumultuous journey filled with controversy and defiance.
The biopic takes a closer look at the fiery freedom fighter’s life, from his early days in Maharashtra to his imprisonment in the infamous Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
It explores his unwavering belief in armed revolution as opposed to Mahatma Gandhi‘s non-violence approach, and his role in shaping the ideologies of other notable revolutionaries like Bhagat Singh and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.
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A Powerful Performance by Randeep Hooda
At the heart of ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ lies Randeep Hooda’s powerful performance in the titular role. Hooda’s physical transformation, shedding 30 kilograms to portray Savarkar’s emaciated form during his imprisonment, is nothing short of remarkable.
His commitment to the role shines through in every frame, from the intense scenes of torture and solitary confinement to the fiery speeches and interactions with historical figures like Gandhi.
Hooda’s nuanced portrayal captures the complexities of Savarkar’s character, presenting him as both a heroic leader and a helpless prisoner, torn between his unwavering belief in armed resistance and the harsh realities of British oppression.
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A Balanced Perspective or a One-Sided Narrative?
While the film aims to shed light on Savarkar’s oft-neglected contributions to India’s freedom struggle, it has faced criticism for presenting a one-sided narrative. Scenes depicting Savarkar’s ideological clashes with Gandhi and the vilification of the Indian National Congress have raised eyebrows, prompting accusations of propagandism.
However, the film’s strength lies in its ability to spark dialogue and reignite discussions around Savarkar’s contested legacy. It challenges the audience to question long-held beliefs and examine the multifaceted nature of India’s struggle for independence.
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A Cinematic Journey Through History
Beyond the controversial subject matter, ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar‘ is a technical marvel, transporting viewers to a bygone era through its meticulous attention to detail. The production design, costumes, and cinematography work in tandem to create an immersive experience, allowing audiences to witness pivotal moments in Savarkar’s life with authenticity.
While the film’s length and occasionally meandering narrative may test the patience of some viewers, it is a bold attempt to shed light on a figure who has long been overshadowed by more celebrated icons of the freedom struggle.
Swatantra Veer Savarkar Movie Rating: 3/5
‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar‘ is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged cinematic experience that challenges audiences to confront their perceptions of history. Whether you agree with Savarkar’s ideologies or not, the film offers a compelling glimpse into the life of a man who fought tirelessly for his vision of an independent India.
As the nation continues to grapple with its complex past, ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar‘ serves as a poignant reminder that history is often written by the victors, and it is up to us to seek out the untold stories that shape our understanding of the present.