Published By: Sayan Paul

Netaji Jayanti: From Sachin Khedakar To Rajkummar Rao - Actors Who Have Played The 'Hero' On Screen

January 23 - the birthday of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose - is officially known as Parakram Diwas.

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's life journey itself feels like the script of a blockbuster film or web series. I mean, there's everything from drama to thrill to actions to twists and more. First of all, he was an outstanding student who turned his back on a comfortable career opportunity - just to serve his nation. He joined politics and soon had conflicts with India's most prominent leader of the time, Mahatma Gandhi. Then he charted his own path, emerging as a threat to the British Raj. Whether it's developing alliances with global powers, building a formidable army, or inspiring countless individuals to stand up for their rights - well, it is full of those “high points” that you cannot get enough of. What's even more interesting is that his story literally has no end - because his death is still a mystery, with people wondering whether it was an accident or part of a conspiracy.

Well, it's no wonder that several filmmakers - especially in Bollywood - have been drawn to Netaji's story. And several actors have time and again portrayed the late Indian Nationalist on the screen. Today, on Parakram Diwas, let's have a look at some of them in this article.

Sachin Khedekar in 'Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero'

Written and directed by Shyam Benegal, 'Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero' is one of the most comprehensive depictions of Netaji. The film explores his journey in Nazi Germany from 1941 to 1943, in Japanese-occupied Asia from 1943 to 1945, and the formation of Azad Hind Fauj. And Sachin Khedekar as Netaji is just perfect.

More than Netaji's rebellious side, Khedekar here brings dignity and emotional depth to his portrayal. Also, he captures the multiple shades and complexities of Netaji's personality, while also embodying the fire that Netaji was known for.

(Credit: Film History Pics)

It's worth noting that Khedekar was chosen over actors like Paresh Rawa, R Madhavan, and Jackie Shroff for the role of Netaji. Speaking about the same, the actor later said in an interview, "I think my face did the trick. In terms of physical resemblance, I come closest to Netaji. I don't need much makeup to resemble him. I have just cut my hair."

Prosenjit Chatterjee in 'Gumnaami'

Srijit Mukherji's 2019 National Award-winning Bengali film 'Gumnaami' is based on the Mukherjee Commission Hearings (1999-2005) that sheds light on the circumstantial evidence of Netaji living (after his plane crash) in disguise as Gumnaami Baba. The film begins with Netaji's journey with the Indian National Congress and subsequently shows his journey towards fighting British rule.

Superstar Prosenjit Chatterjee delivers a compelling performance as both Netaji and Gumnaami Baba here. His portrayal shows the charismatic leader that Netaji was, delving deep into his ideals, ambitions, and rebellious attitude. Also, he perfectly brings the mystery surrounding Gumnaami Baba in his portrayal.

(Credit: Prosenjit Chatterjee Lovers)

Rajkummar Rao in 'Bose: Dead/Alive'

'Bose: Dead/Alive' is a miniseries based on Anuj Dhar's 2012 book, 'India's Biggest Cover-up'. The series focuses on the mystery surrounding Netaji's death, exploring whether he had died in that plane crash or not. And Rajkummar Rao's portrayal of the titular protagonist here is a masterclass in acting.

Rao captures the core spirit of Bose - from his patriotism to determination to conviction and whatnot. And at the same time, he brings his sensitive side on the screen, exploring everything from his inner conflicts to moral dilemmas to vulnerabilities. He makes the character both a hero and a human at the same time, making it relatable for audiences.

(Credit: Rajkummar Rao)