Films on Liberation War in independent Bangladesh

As Bangladesh celebrates its 54th Independence Day, Views Bangladesh takes a cinematic deep dive into the most remarkable films that have captured the essence of the Liberation War. From the raw emotions of the 1970s to the grandeur of modern productions, these films reflect the country's struggle, resilience, and ultimate victory.

Part One (1972-1982): The Dawn of Liberation War Films

Ora Egaro Jon (1972)

The first-ever film on the Liberation War, 'Ora Egaro Jon', was directed by the late Chashi Nazrul Islam and released in 1972. Produced only months after independence, the film struck a powerful chord with audiences. With a stellar cast featuring Razzak, Shabana, Nuton, Khosru, Syed Hasan Imam, and Khalilullah Khan, it vividly depicted the heroism of the freedom fighters.

Arunodoyer Agnishakkhi (1972)

Directed by Subhash Dutta, this film shed light on the harrowing experiences of war-affected women and war children in post-independence Bangladesh. With a compelling message—"Give dignity to disgraced womanhood, welcome innocent children"—the movie starred Bobita, Anwar Hossain, and the director himself.

Abar Tora Manush Ho (1973)

Khan Ataur Rahman’s 'Abar Tora Manush Ho' ploted on seven college students who, despite the war’s end, fought against social injustices and corruption. Featuring Bobita, Farooque, and Raisul Islam Asad, this film remains a powerful commentary on the challenges of rebuilding a nation.

Alor Michil (1974)

Directed by Narayan Ghosh Mita, 'Alor Michil' explored the socio-political landscape of newly independent Bangladesh, starring Farooque, Bobita, Razzak, and Sujata.

Other Notable Films (1972-1982):

The decade saw many impactful war films, including 'Bagha Bangali', 'Sangram', 'Roktakto Bangla', 'Dhire Bohe Meghna', 'Amar Jonmobhumi', 'Slogan', 'Banglar 24 Bochor', 'Megher Onek Rong', and 'Kalmilata'.

During 1982-1992, feature films on the Liberation War became scarce, but short films like Agami, Hulia, Chakki, Charpotro, Bokhate, Potaka, and Kalochil 71 emerged, along with numerous documentary films.



Part Two (1992-2002): The Revival of War Stories

Ekattorer Jishu (1993)

Directed by Nasir Uddin Yusuf and based on Shahriar Kabir’s novel, this film starred Humayun Faridi and delivered a brutally honest portrayal of war realities.

Aguner Poroshmoni (1994)

Written and directed by Humayun Ahmed, this iconic film showcased guerrilla warfare and family struggles during 1971. Featuring Asaduzzaman Noor, Bipasha Hayat, Abul Hayat, and Dolly Zahur, it won eight National Film Awards.

Nodir Naam Modhumoti (1995)

Tanvir Mokammel’s 'Nodir Naam Modhumoti' won three National Film Awards, starring Tauquir Ahmed, Ali Zaker, and Afsana Mimi.

Hangor Nodi Grenade (1997)

Directed by Chashi Nazrul Islam and based on Selina Hossain’s story, this film captured a mother’s heartbreaking sacrifice during the war. Suchorita led a cast including Sohel Rana, Aruna Biswas, and Imran.

Other Notable Films (1992-2002):

This period also brought films like Sipahi, Itihas Konna, 71-er Lash, and Shilalipi.



Part Three (2002-2012): Bangladesh’s War Stories Gain Global Recognition

Matir Moyna (2002)

Tarek Masud’s 'Matir Moyna' (The Clay Bird) was the first Bangladeshi film submitted to the 75th Academy Awards and won international acclaim. The story is set against the turbulent period of the tumultuous late 1960s, spanning from the mass uprising of 1969 to the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War against Pakistan. It follows the journey of a family fractured by the ravages of war and the divisions caused by religion.

The film, which starred Nurul Islam Bablu, Rusel Farazi, and Rokeya Prachi, was initially banned in Bangladesh but later gained international recognition, premiering at the Cannes Film Festival and screening at multiple global festivals. It was first released in France.

Shyamol Chhaya (2004)

Humayun Ahmed’s Shyamol Chhaya, featuring Humayun Faridi, Riaz, and Meher Afroz Shaon, became Bangladesh’s second Oscar submission. The film follows a group of people seeking refuge on a boat as they navigate the dangers of war.

Joyjatra (2004)

Directed by Tauquir Ahmed and based on a story by Amjad Hossain, 'Joyjatra' depicted the struggles of a refugee group during the war. As they face suffering and loss, their determination to stand against the Pakistani invaders grows. The film, starring Azizul Hakim, Bipasha Hayat, and Mahfuz Ahmed, Humayun Faridi, Tariq Anam Khan, Abul Hayat, and Chandni.

Amar Bondhu Rashed (2011)

Based on Muhammad Zafar Iqbal’s novel, this film followed young guerrilla fighters and was directed by Morshedul Islam.

Guerilla (2011)

Nasir Uddin Yusuf’s Guerilla, starring Jaya Ahsan and Ferdous, offered an intense, gripping war drama and won over critics and audiences.

Other Notable Films (2002-2012):

Notable releases included Megher Pare Megh, Khelaghor, Ostitte Amar Desh, Spartacus '71, and Rabeya.



Part Four (2012-Present): The Modern Era of War Films

Jibondhuli (2014)
Directed by Tanvir Mokammel, 'Jibondhuli' portrays the brutal persecution of ordinary people by the Pakistani invaders during the Liberation War. Featuring performances by Shatabdi Wadud, Jyotika Jyoti, and others, the film presents a harrowing yet powerful narrative.

Meghmallar (2014)
Adapted from Akhtaruzzaman Ilyas' short story "Raincoat", 'Meghmallar' was directed by the late Zahidur Rahman Anjan. The film explores the war’s effects on everyday lives, featuring Shahiduzzaman Selim, Aparna Ghosh, and an ensemble cast.

Anil Bagchir Ekdin (2015)
Based on Humayun Ahmed’s novel of the same name, 'Anil Bagchir Ekdin', directed by Morshedul Islam, captures the uncertainty, humanity, and cruelty of the Liberation War. The film stars Aref Syed, Gazi Rakait, and Jyotika Jyoti.

Bhuban Majhi (2017)
Directed by Fakhrul Arefin Khan, 'Bhuban Majhi' tells the story of an ordinary man who transforms into a rebel during the war. A compelling drama, it stars Parambrata Chattopadhyay, Aparna Ghosh, Kazi Naushaba Ahmed, and Mamunur Rashid.

Sphulingo (2021)
Directed by Tauqir Ahmed, 'Sphulingo' focuses on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s ideals and how the Liberation War’s fighting spirit continues to inspire today’s youth. The film features Zakia Bari Mom, Pori Moni, Shyamal Maula, Rawnak Hasan, and Mamunur Rashid.

Mujib: The Shaper of a Nation (2023)
A biopic on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, 'Mujib: The Shaper of a Nation' was directed by Shyam Benegal and is based on Bangabandhu’s autobiography. Arifin Shuvo plays the titular role, alongside Nusrat Imroz Tisha, Nusrat Faria, Fazlur Rahman Babu, Riaz, Raisul Islam Asad, Prarthana Fardin Dighi, Chanchal Chowdhury, and Gazi Rakait.

Nakshikanthar Jomin (2023)
Released in December 2023, 'Nakshikanthar Jomin', directed by Akram Khan and produced by Farzana Munni, tells the story of two sisters struggling to survive the war. Starring Jaya Ahsan and Faria Shams Seoti, the film offers a poignant portrayal of wartime resilience.

Other notable films exploring the Liberation War include 'Maya: The Lost Mother', 'Rupsa Nodir Banke', 'Alatchakra: Circle of Desire', 'Priyo Komola', 'Damal', 'Joy Bangla', and 'Juddho Shishu'.

From early classics to modern masterpieces, these films have played a crucial role in keeping the spirit of 1971 alive.