In 2024, Bollywood embarked on a journey to spotlight the lives of real-life heroes, offering audiences an intimate glimpse into the struggles, triumphs, and inspirations of iconic figures. Several actors, including Kartik Aaryan, Rajkummar Rao, and Junaid Khan, took on the challenge of portraying real-life stories, turning these tales of resilience and determination into captivating cinematic experiences. Here’s a look at some of the most impactful Hindi biographical films from this year.
Chandu Champion
Kartik Aaryan delivered a powerful performance in Chandu Champion, portraying the remarkable story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Directed by Kabir Khan, the film traces Murlikant’s journey from his service in the Indian Army to his incredible success as a Paralympic swimmer. Aaryan’s portrayal brought a sense of authenticity and depth, resonating with audiences and shedding light on the indomitable spirit of real-life heroes.
Srikanth
Srikanth explores the life of Srikanth Bolla, a visually impaired entrepreneur who rose to prominence by establishing Bollant Industries. Rajkummar Rao stepped into the shoes of Bolla, delivering a remarkable performance that encapsulated his journey from struggling to pursue higher education to creating job opportunities for visually impaired individuals. Directed by Tushar Hiranandani, the film portrays Bolla’s determination, reflecting his pursuit of knowledge and entrepreneurial spirit. Srikanth stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of inclusive progress.
Amar Singh Chamkila
One of the most anticipated films of the year, Amar Singh Chamkila, directed by Imtiaz Ali, brought the life of the legendary Punjabi singer to the forefront. Diljit Dosanjh, with his signature charisma, portrayed the titular role of Amar Singh Chamkila, capturing his rise to fame in the 1980s with hits like Takaue Te Takuo. Amar Singh Chamkila offers a poignant exploration of a musician whose talent and life continue to inspire generations.
Maharaj
Junaid Khan made his acting debut in Maharaj, a gripping biopic that delves into the life of Karsandas Mulji, a courageous Gujarati journalist. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra and produced by Aditya Chopra, the film recounts Mulji’s relentless pursuit to expose Jadunath Maharaj (played by Jaideep Ahlawat), a religious leader accused of exploiting female devotees. Maharaj highlights Mulji’s fearless stance against blind faith and corruption, shedding light on the challenges faced by journalists in a fight for justice. Junaid Khan’s powerful performance sets a strong foundation for his acting career, capturing both the intensity and the moral battles of Mulji’s journey.
These biographical films of 2024 not only celebrated the lives of extraordinary individuals but also left a lasting impact on audiences. Through compelling storytelling, strong performances, and memorable music, Bollywood has continued to highlight real-life heroes who have shaped history and continue to inspire the present. Whether it’s Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal of Murlikant Petkar or Rajkummar Rao’s depiction of Srikanth Bolla, each film resonated deeply, reflecting the resilience, ambition, and courage that define these icons. Bollywood’s commitment to honoring such inspiring stories ensures that the legacy of these real-life heroes lives on, leaving an indelible mark on cinema and audiences alike.
