The evolution of Historical period dramas in Indian Cinema | Hindi Movie News

Indian cinema has long been fascinated with historical period dramas, using its grand storytelling techniques to bring the past to life. Over the years, these films have evolved significantly in their treatment, scale, and box office performance, reflecting changing audience tastes and advancements in filmmaking technology.
The fascination with historical epics began with classics like Mughal-e-Azam (1960), directed by K. Asif. This magnum opus remains a benchmark for its extravagant sets, opulent costumes, and gripping narrative. Despite its colossal budget for the time, it became one of the highest-grossing films in Indian cinema history, proving that audiences were willing to embrace historicals if done on a grand scale. Other notable films like Razia Sultan (1983) attempted to replicate the grandeur but received mixed responses at the box office, partly due to pacing and storytelling limitations.
Taran Adarsh :I believe historical films often receive mixed reactions. I remember attending the premiere of Razia Sultan, which was dismissed by many right after the premiere because people couldn’t fully grasp or appreciate the film as a whole. However, its music was incredibly popular back then and remains so even today, with songs like Ae Dile Naadaan still being cherished.Directors like Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ashutosh Gowariker have managed to create impactful historicals, but not everyone can achieve that. It takes a lot of conviction to craft a historical film that stays authentic and true to the facts without compromising on quality.Filmmakers need to focus on creating historically accurate films while enhancing them with strong screenplays and thoughtful execution. Only then can such films resonate with audiences effectively.

With filmmakers like Ashutosh Gowariker and Sanjay Leela Bhansali, historical dramas found a new lease of life in the early 2000s. Films like Jodhaa Akbar (2008) and Bajirao Mastani (2015) balanced historical accuracy with cinematic liberties, offering visually stunning narratives. These films were not only critical successes but also box office hits, with Bajirao Mastani crossing ₹350 crore globally. The focus shifted toward creating immersive experiences through larger-than-life sets, intricate costumes, and compelling character arcs.
The late 2010s saw historical dramas becoming blockbuster phenomena. Films like Padmaavat (2018), Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020), and Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019) combined patriotism with larger-than-life storytelling, resonating deeply with audiences.
Kangana Ranaut, who not only played the titular role in Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi but also took on the responsibility of directing the project has a sharp perspective on the challenges of historical films. She shares, “Historical films banana mushkil hai (Making historical films is incredibly difficult).”
Padmaavat grossed over ₹585 crore worldwide, while Tanhaji became one of the highest-grossing films of 2020, collecting ₹368 crore globally.
The modern era also leveraged cutting-edge VFX, enhancing the cinematic experience. These films focused not just on storytelling but also on creating moments of spectacle, ensuring they appealed to a wider demographic.

Box Office Performance

While some historical films struggled (Razia Sultan), others set benchmarks (Mughal-e-Azam, Padmaavat, Tanhaji). Historical dramas are inherently high-risk projects due to their massive budgets and the challenges of maintaining authenticity while appealing to modern audiences. However, when executed well, they often deliver stellar box office returns and leave a lasting cultural impact.Here’s a concise chart of notable historical period dramas in Indian cinema, showcasing their release years, directors, key actors, and box office performances:

Period dramas often spark debates over historical accuracy and creative liberties. Films like Padmaavat and Jodhaa Akbar faced backlash from certain groups, yet their box office performances demonstrated the power of cinematic storytelling to transcend controversies.
Indian cinema’s treatment of historical period dramas has evolved from being mere retellings of history to larger-than-life epics that combine storytelling with visual spectacle. With the success of films like Tanhaji and Padmaavat, it is clear that audiences continue to crave the grandeur and drama of historical narratives. These films, when crafted with care and conviction, not only do well at the box office but also reinforce cinema’s role in preserving and celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.
Girish Wankhede: The evolution of historical films in Indian cinema, particularly within the Hindi film industry, reflects a rich history of storytelling that spans decades. From the inception of Hindi talkies with “Alam Ara” in 1931, historical narratives have played a pivotal role in shaping the cinematic landscape. The early years saw a surge of interest in historical films, with notable titles such as “Jhansi Ki Rani” and “Sardar Bhagat Singh” capturing the imagination of audiences. The 1950s and 60s continued this trend, showcasing films like “Haqeeqat” and “Anarkali,” which not only entertained but also educated viewers about significant historical events and figures.
The 1970s and 80s marked another golden era for historical dramas, with films like “Razia Sultan” bringing to life the stories of remarkable women in history. These films often combined grand visuals with compelling narratives, creating an immersive experience that resonated with viewers. In recent years, the resurgence of historical biopics has further enriched this genre, with films such as “Ashoka,” “Sam Bahadur,” “Bhagat Singh,” “Sardar Udham Singh,” and “Prithviraj Chauhan” highlighting the lives of iconic figures who shaped India’s history.
The trend extends beyond Hindi cinema, as regional films also contribute significantly to the historical narrative. For instance, the Marathi film industry has produced over ten films centered around the legendary figure of Shivaji Maharaj, showcasing the cultural and historical richness of the region. Similarly, the Tamil films “Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1” and “Part 2” have captured audiences with their grand storytelling and intricate portrayals of historical events.
The transition from black-and-white classics like “Prithvi Vallabh” to contemporary blockbusters such as “Tanhaji” and the highly anticipated “Chhaava” demonstrates the evolution of filmmaking techniques and storytelling approaches. While some films, like “Mangal Pandey,” “Ashoka,” and “Razia Sultan,” have faced challenges at the box office, the majority of historical films have succeeded due to their grand scale, rich period detail, and engaging narratives. These films often serve as a source of inspiration for younger generations, providing valuable lessons about bravery, sacrifice, and the complexities of history.
The success of recent historical action dramas, particularly “Uri” and “Sam Bahadur,” underscores the genre’s enduring appeal. These films have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also achieved commercial success, thanks in part to their star-studded casts and high production values. The ability of filmmakers to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant stories is crucial in attracting audiences to historical narratives.
Looking ahead, the anticipation surrounding the trailer for “Chhaava,” which promises to be a visual spectacle, suggests a bright future for the historical action drama genre. With its impressive production quality and engaging storyline, the film has the potential to further solidify the popularity of historical films in Indian cinema. As filmmakers continue to explore this genre, blending history with entertainment, it is clear that historical action dramas will remain a significant and celebrated part of the cinematic landscape, captivating audiences with their grandeur and storytelling prowess.
In conclusion, the journey of historical films in Indian cinema is a testament to the power of storytelling. From early classics to modern blockbusters, these films not only entertain but also educate and inspire, making them an invaluable part of our cultural heritage.