Be it Republic Day or Independence Day, what better time to talk to your kids about patriotism? And there is no better conversation starter than watching some iconic patriotic movies with kids. Patriotism does not always need loud speeches or long history lessons. Sometimes, it begins on the sofa, with popcorn in hand and a powerful story on screen. These movies not only highlight the true essence of patriotism, but also help kids understand the pride and love to have towards their motherland. Let’s instil a sense of patriotism in children so that they grow up to respect the armed forces, the sacrifices of those unsung heroes and freedom fighters, while having a sense of duty towards the country.
Top Patriotic Movies For Kids:
Parent viewing note: Some of these patriotic movies include war scenes, emotional moments, or complex themes, so it’s best to watch together and talk through questions or feelings as they come up.
1. Border (1997)
Set during the 1971 war, Border shows bravery, teamwork, and sacrifice through the eyes of Indian soldiers. While intense in parts, it strongly highlights unity and duty. Parents can help children understand courage and resilience through discussion.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age: 13+
2. Lagaan (2001)
During the British Raj, a farmer named Bhuvan accepts the challenge of Captain Andrew Russell to beat his team in a game of cricket and enable his village to not pay taxes for the next three years. Lagaan turns a simple cricket match into a powerful story of resistance and unity during British rule.
Watch on: Netflix | Age: 8+
3. Swades (2004)
Swades gently asks an important question. What can we do for our country? Through a simple village story, children learn that patriotism can be quiet, thoughtful, and action-based. Mohan, an Indian expatriate employed with NASA, travels to his country to track down his beloved nanny, Kaveri. During his stay, he finds himself advocating for reform in a village.
Watch on: Netflix | Age: 9+
4. Chak De! India (2007)
This sports drama celebrates teamwork, equality, and national pride. Kabir Khan, an ex-Indian hockey player accused of dishonouring his country in a global hockey tournament, starts coaching the Indian women’s national hockey team to show his devotion to the nation.
Watch on: Netflix | Age: 8+
5. Rang De Basanti (2006)
The film connects past freedom fighters with modern youth. After a group of friends graduate from Delhi University, they listlessly haunt their old campus until a British filmmaker (Alice Patten) casts them in a film she’s making about freedom fighters under British rule. Although the group is largely apolitical, the tragic death of a friend owing to local government corruption awakens their patriotism. Inspired by the freedom fighters they represent in the film, the friends collectively decide to avenge the killing.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age: 13+ (Needs Parental Guidance)
6. The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
This biographical film introduces children to one of India’s most respected freedom fighters. Born in British India, Bhagat Singh witnesses numerous atrocities during his childhood and grows up to become one of the most fearless freedom fighters in the country.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age: 10+
7. Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
Uri: The Surgical Strike is based on the real events of the 2016 Uri attack on an Indian Army base and the subsequent retaliatory surgical strikes by the Indian Army into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Watch on: Zee5 | Age: 12+
8. Gandhi (1982)
This classic introduces Mahatma Gandhi’s life and values. It focuses on non-violence, truth, and moral strength rather than action.
Watch on: Jio Hotstar | Age: 10+
9. Raazi (2018)
The film is an adaptation of Harinder Sikka’s 2008 novel Calling Sehmat, a true account of an Indian Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) agent who, upon her father’s request, is married into a family of military officers in Pakistan to relay information to India, prior to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age: 12+
10. Sardar Udham (2021)
A deeply emotional film about sacrifice and justice. Indian revolutionary Udham Singh seeks revenge on Michael O’Dwyer, Punjab’s lieutenant governor, by assassinating him after his troops cruelly kill hundreds of people in the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age: 14+
11. Lakshya (2004)
Lakshya follows the journey of a directionless young man who slowly discovers discipline, purpose, and self-belief through life in the Indian Army. The story focuses less on battle and more on personal growth, showing how commitment and responsibility shape character.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age limit: 11+
12. Kesari (2019)
Kesari tells the powerful story of the Battle of Saragarhi, where a small group of Sikh soldiers stood bravely against overwhelming odds. The film highlights courage, unity, and standing firm for one’s duty, even in the face of danger.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age limit: 12+
13. Sam Bahadur (2023)
Sam Bahadur traces the life of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, focusing on leadership, integrity, and calm decision-making during critical moments in Indian military history. The film balances seriousness with warmth and humour.
Watch on: Amazon Prime | Age limit: 10+
Also, read – How to Teach Kids What Republic Day Really Means
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