Indian villages have been a significant source of inspiration for filmmakers, drawing audiences in with their rustic allure, deep-rooted traditions, and poignant narratives. These films go beyond just portraying picturesque landscapes; they dive through the intricate and multifaceted aspects. They highlight not only the inherent beauty of village settings but also the everyday struggles and triumphs of the inhabitants. Through these stories, the villager's resilience, strength, and spirit are brought to the forefront, offering a compelling glimpse into the realities and richness of life in India's rural areas.
Here are the cinematic gems that will transport you to the heart of India's countryside.
Gowariker's heartwarming tale follows an NRI returning to his roots in the fictional village of Charanpur (Wai, Maharashtra). The film's rustic setting, with its mud houses and lush landscapes, paints a vivid picture of rural simplicity and the challenges faced by the inhabitants.
Directed by Shyam Benegal, this classic explores the Amul dairy cooperative movement. Filmed in Gujarat's Charotar region, the film authentically portrays the lives of dairy farmers, capturing their spirit of community and resilience. The natural materials, traditional building methods, and village squares paint a picture of agrarian life in the Kheda district.
Neeraj Ghaywan's poignant drama unfolds in the charming yet complex setting of Varanasi. The iconic Ganges ghats and meticulous production design by Ranjit Singh create a captivating yet haunting atmosphere, reflecting the harsh realities faced by the characters.
Amol Palekar's visually stunning film set in Rajasthan (Jhunjhunu district) explores themes of women's liberation through a fantastical lens. The warm colour palette, traditional havelis with intricate jharokhas and frescoes, and bustling bazaars create a picturesque backdrop for the narrative.
This lighthearted film by Priyadarshan features Shah Rukh Khan and Irrfan Khan. The verdant landscapes of Budbuda village in Chattisgarh provide a contrast to the protagonist's life as a barber in Mumbai. The film beautifully captures the village's charm and the vibrant world of Bollywood.
Ketan Mehta's film set in the 1940s portrays the harsh realities of life in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. The production design by Javed Akhtar uses an earthy palette with shades of ochre and brown, reflecting the arid environment and the simple huts of the villagers who fight for their livelihood.
Ashutosh Gowariker's iconic sports drama takes us to the fictional village of Champaner (shot near Bhuj, Kutch). The film uses contrasting visuals to showcase the stark realities of the drought-stricken village's struggle against the British, highlighting the villagers' resilience.
Rishab Shetty's visually stunning film unfolds in Keradi, a picturesque coastal hamlet in Karnataka. The production design by Dharani Gange Putra meticulously recreates a 1990s village atmosphere with traditional dwellings, lush plantations, and an authentic Kambala racecourse. The film seamlessly blends natural elements with the sets, emphasising the conflict between man and nature.
This powerful film by Rishikesh Mukherjee showcases the talent of cinematographer Sudeep Chatterjee and art director Muneesh Sappal. Set in a Rajasthani village (Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur) with transitions to the scenic landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, the film uses contrasting aesthetics to tell a captivating story.
Kiran Rao's recent film, set in the fictional Nirmal Pradesh (shot in Bamuliya and Damakheda villages, Madhya Pradesh), takes viewers on a heartwarming journey. The production design by Vikram Singh recreates a rustic yet enchanting atmosphere with earthy tones and traditional Chitravan folk art adorning the houses.
Did you hit the bottom of the list? Sit back, relax and binge your weekend to the ambience of their simplicity!
