This Independence Day watchlist will awaken your inner warrior

We’ve got your long-weekend binge-watch covered

Back in school, the morning schedule for August 15th was pretty standard. Head to school in your freshly pressed uniform with no books in your bag, attend the flag-hoisting ceremony, sing the national anthem, and watch the special assembly unfold with freedom-themed skits, speeches, dances and choir performances. Then, after gorging on delicious snacks and Independence Day-themed mithais, you would hurry home by 11 AM. It was pure bliss.

Year after year, as we watched these programs on stage, the idea of freedom, and the importance of fighting for it, solidified in our heads. We may not be involved in a similar independence struggle anymore, but aren’t we all constantly fighting for some kind of freedom? From societal rules, family expectations, the burden of failure, the demands of our 9-to-5 jobs, or simply the freedom to dream of cliff-jumping on the Italian coast. The fight to live the life we want never stops. Our protagonists in this Independence Day watchlist have also battled for freedom from oppression, abuse, sexism, injustice and everything that held them back, emerging victorious like Olympic champions. So grab your snacks and stream this inspiring watchlist to spark a fierce fire within you.

Independence Day watchlist to stream this weekend

Brinda

We may be in 2024, but problems like sexism and superstition cling to us like day-old chewing gum. In this Telugu crime drama, Brinda, a newly appointed sub-inspector in Hyderabad, is grappling with gender discrimination at work, and nightmares at home. When a death is about to be classified as a suicide, Brinda suspects foul play. Despite a lack of support from her superiors, she embarks on an investigation that reveals a series of murders rooted in ritualistic practices. As she pursues the murderer, convinced that her theories are right, and battles workplace sexism, she must also contend with personal demons and traumas of her past.

Premiered on August 2 on SonyLIV

Srikanth

This poignant biographical film is based on the life of visually impaired industrialist Srikanth Bolla, played by Rajkummar Rao, and traces his journey from childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur who provides jobs to differently-abled individuals. The movie highlights the various turning points that were crucial to his personal struggle, from legally fighting for his right to study science to attending the Massachusetts Institute of Technology as their first visually impaired international student, and eventually returning to India to start his own business. The film puts the spotlight on Bolla’s self-possession, confidence and determination to pursue his dreams — brilliantly portrayed by Rao and presented in a narrative that will warm your heart.

Stream it on Netflix

Rainbow Rishta

This docuseries offers an intimate look at the LGBTQIA+ community in India through six stories of love and romance. The episodes follow the journeys of six protagonists as they fight discrimination, societal boundaries and gender biases to achieve the one thing we all crave—love and connection. Each episode dives into the personal journeys of the protagonists and their struggles with inclusivity as they navigate planning a queer wedding, renting an apartment, and exploring the dating world. This heartwarming series features moving depictions of liberation, as well as bittersweet moments that’ll leave you reflecting on queer realities and hoping for a more free and inclusive future.

Stream it on Amazon Prime Video

Dahaad

Every Independence Day watchlist needs a badass lady cop, and Sonakshi Sinha, as sub-inspector Anjali Bhaati, plays the part with utmost conviction. A modern-day Jhansi ki Rani armed with determination, Bhaati investigates a series of deaths that point to a possible serial killer targeting women across Rajasthan. She finds herself entangled in a riveting chase that reveals deep-seated issues of caste and sexism. We see Bhaati rebelling against orthodox and oppressive beliefs that plague her village, prioritising her duty over finding an ‘eligible groom’, and coping with the biases attached to her gender and caste. This gripping thriller will have you cheering for Bhaati as she overcomes societal constraints to solve the case.

Stream it on Amazon Prime Video

12th fail

Adulting brings independence, but no one mentioned that it also comes with a huge fear of failure, which can feel like you’re being crushed by a hydraulic press like in those viral ASRMR videos. But if there’s one person you can draw inspiration from during tough times, it’s Manoj Kumar Sharma. This Vikrant Massey-starrer is a biographical drama inspired by Sharma’s real-life attempts to clear his UPSC exams and become an IPS officer, while battling the odds and facing poverty and social challenges. Despite failing at different stages in multiple attempts, Sharma remains persistent and focused on his goals, undaunted by failure. A testament to commitment and resilience, this is a motivating watch for UPSC aspirants and students everywhere.

Stream it on Disney + Hotstar

Sesham Mike-il Fathima

If you’ve ever stood in front of the TV, dreaming of becoming a cricketer or a sports commentator, this movie is for you. In this Malayalam comedy-drama, Fathima, a young girl from an orthodox Muslim family in Kerala, dreams of becoming a football commentator. As patriarchal attitudes and discrimination from a male-dominated industry prevent her from realising her goals, she actively seeks opportunities to pursue her unconventional dreams and break free from gender biases. This endearing, feel-good film delivers an impactful message with a light touch.

Stream it on Netflix

Baipan Bhari Deva

A celebration of womanhood and sisterhood, this Marathi film focuses on the lives of six sisters coping with various domestic struggles like dealing with a tyrannical father-in-law, feeling sidelined in a child’s life and grappling with a husband’s infidelity. When they unite for a Mangala Gaur celebration, a Maharashtrian ceremony where women pray for their partner’s well-being, past grievances and issues resurface upsetting present-day dynamics. Despite their differences, the sisters find solace in each other and, in the process, learn to shed their emotional baggage and emerge stronger. The film poignantly highlights the often-overlooked struggles of women in domestic settings and the impact this has on their independent identities.

Stream it on Hotstar

Irugapatru

‘Your mind is your only limitation’ rings true in this Tamil romantic drama, which revolves around three couples seeking freedom from their marital issues. Mithra, a marriage counsellor and psychologist, struggles with emotional intimacy and communication in her own marriage while counselling two couples on issues like fading love, constant friction and unhappiness. As Mithra guides her clients towards possible solutions, she is forced to confront her own mental barriers. Although the somewhat clinical narrative might make you feel like a fly on a marriage counsellor’s wall, the movie’s strong characters and relatable relationship issues will appeal to those seeking psychological insights into love.

Stream it on Netflix