28 Years For Roja: 5 Reasons This 90s Classic Is The Perfect Film To Watch On Independence Day

Roja which released on Independence Day in 1992 is a landmark film in Indian cinema. This film began a Mani Ratnam Trilogy of political thrillers including Bombay (1995) and Dil Se (1998). This film starring Arvind Swami and Madhoo as a couple in love caught in the middle of a political storm. This is a romantic classic as much as it is an important film from a national perspective. Here’s why Roja is still relevant to this day and why it is the right film to watch on our 73rd Independence Day.

1.Story of Kashmir Insurgency – In 1992, Kashmir was torn with conflict and strife much like it is till today. However, there was a lack of national awareness about the realities of the situation. In Roja, Mani Ratnam highlights the insurgent in Kashmir who try to incite communal violence and disrupt the peace. Ironically while the film was supposed to be shot in Kashmir, they were unable to do so because of the violence prevalent at the time.

2.AR Rahman’s timeless music – Today, we know him as the music maestro who has brought glory to India internationally. However, in 1992 AR Rahman was a newcomer and Mani Ratnam offered him his debut as a music producer in Roja. AR Rahman’s debut soundtrack was voted as by Time Magazine in the Top 10 Best Soundtracks of all Time! The songs truly make the film worth watching again.

Watch AR Rahman singing ‘Tamizha Tamizha’ an iconic song from the film Roja at the Zee Cine Awards Tamil 2020.

3.Classic love story – While the film is an important look at the political scenario in the country, the audiences were hooked by the love story. Arjun Swami and Madhoo were a refreshing pair on screen and their story resonated with people around the country, and world. Their love story is literally based on the classic tale of Savitri and Satyavan from the Mahabharata.

4. Inspired by true events – While Roja is a fictional story the director Mani Ratnam said he was inspired to make this film after seeing a true story unfold in 1991. K. Doraiswamy, an executive of the Indian Oil Corporation, was kidnapped by Kashmiri militants and put in captivity for two months and Doraiswamy’s wife was fighting for his release.

5.National and International acclaim – Roja was a Tamil film that won acclaim from all over the world. This film won the National award for best lyricist and best music director. More importantly, it won the award for best film on national integration. It was screened at the London Indian Film Festival and Moscow International Film Festival to name a few.

Watch this legendary film in Indian cinema that is brilliantly made and has an important social message. Here’s a list of Independence Day films you should watch on ZEE5.