Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti 2023: From Naseeruddin Shah to Ben Kingsley, Actors Who Played Bapu Through the Years on Big Screen

Mahatma Gandhi's profound words, "A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes," not only emphasis the power of individual thought patterns but also underscore the enduring impact of his ideals on collective consciousness. Filmmakers and playwrights have fervently chronicled his life, with actors striving to embody his essence. Gandhi's legacy extends far beyond his own existence, transcending time and borders to shape our world's values and perceptions, proving that his wisdom continues to inspire generations and guide them toward a path of peace, justice, and equality. Gandhi Jayanti 2023 Long Weekend Trip Ideas in India: From Hampi to Spiti Valley, 5 Travel Destinations To Explore This Year.

Here is a list of 5 performances that we think have done complete justice to Bapu's stature:

Naseeruddin Shah In Hey Ram

In Kamal Haasan's 2000 film Hey Ram, Naseeruddin Shah portrayed Gandhi. Despite the brevity of his role, it carried significant poignancy, emphasising the film's central theme of countering hate and violence. Hey Ram received three National Film Awards and was screened at the 25th Toronto International Film Festival and the 2000 Locarno Festival.

Rajit Kapur In The Making Of The Mahatma

In Kamal Haasan's 2000 film Hey Ram, Naseeruddin Shah portrayed Gandhi. Despite the brevity of his role, it carried significant poignancy, emphasising the film's central theme of countering hate and violence. Hey Ram received three National Film Awards and was screened at the 25th Toronto International Film Festival and the 2000 Locarno Festival.

Rajit Kapur In The Making Of The Mahatma

Rajit Kapur's portrayal of Gandhi in Shyam Benegal's 1996 film, The Making of the Mahatma, depicted Gandhi's pivotal 21 years in South Africa. These years shaped him into a leader whose moral influence would later inspire figures like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. The film, earned Rajit Kapur a National Award and also received recognition as the National Award winner for Best Feature Film in English. Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti 2023 Celebrations: Fancy Dress Competition Ideas for Your Kids To Look Like Bapu on His Birthday. 

Ben Kingsley In Gandhi

The definitive biopic of Mahatma Gandhi, directed by Richard Attenborough, starred Ben Kingsley in an Oscar-winning role. Released in 1982, it achieved instant global success. Notably, Ben prepared meticulously, reading over 28 books on Gandhi, shedding a substantial amount of weight, and perfecting his Indian accent. The film received 11 nominations at the 55th Academy Awards and won eight, including Best Costume Design for Bhanu Athaiya.

Dilip Prabhavalkar In Lage Raho Munnabhai

In Rajkumar Hirani's 2006 comedy, Dilip Prabhavalkar's portrayal of Gandhi exuded genial warmth and wit, endearing him to countless viewers. Featuring Sanjay Dutt as the lead, the film humorously showcased how Gandhi's principles of truth, honesty, humanism, and non-violence could resolve any life issue. The pivotal moment arrives when a goon starts seeing Gandhi everywhere, catalysing transformative interactions that impact not only him but everyone around.

Annu Kapoor In Sardar

In Ketan Mehta's film, Annu Kapoor assumed the role of Mahatma Gandhi. This biopic centered on India's inaugural home minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, portrayed by Paresh Rawal, delving into their complex relationship with Gandhi. The movie provided a unique perspective on Gandhi's principles, seen through the lens of someone who both revered and critiqued the Mahatma. Gandhi Jayanti 2023 Date, History and Significance: Know All About the Day That Marks the Birth Anniversary of the Father of the Nation.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi's enduring influence has captivated filmmakers and actors for decades. His remarkable political luminary's life has been a recurring subject in cinema, celebrated for his simplicity and unwavering commitment to principles such as non-violence, truth, and secularism. As the nation commemorates Bapu on his 152nd birth anniversary, his legacy continues to serve as a powerful source of inspiration.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2023 03:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).