Based on the life of one of India’s most influential and controversial leaders, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, the biographical period drama “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” brings his complex story to the fore. The film, led by the compelling performance of Randeep Hooda in the titular role, also stars Ankita Lokhande as Yamuna Bai Savarkar, the revolutionary’s devoted wife. Originally released in cinemas on March 22, the film is now set to make its digital debut on the streaming platform ZEE5 this coming May 28.
The selection of May 28 is a poignant one, as it commemorates what would have been VD Savarkar’s 141st birth anniversary. The decision to align the film’s OTT release with this significant date underscores the filmmakers’ intent to pay homage to Savarkar’s indelible impact on Indian history. Notably, “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” also represents Randeep Hooda’s directorial debut, adding another layer of intrigue to this ambitious project.
In anticipation of the film’s digital premiere, Randeep Hooda shared his thoughts, saying, “I am really looking forward to the world digital premiere of ‘Swantantrya Veer Savarkar’ on ZEE5. What better day to pay a tribute to the most influential revolutionary of the Indian armed revolution than on his 141st birth anniversary on May 28. I must admit that I learnt a lot more about this inspiring hero after I started working on this project, and I want to share this film with as many people as possible to counter the false narrative spread in popular culture to bury his legacy. It was an honor playing the life of this influential yet maligned revolutionary who has left such a rich and inspiring legacy behind. I would urge every Indian to watch this film to know the hidden chapters of Indian history and decide for themselves if he was deservedly Veer or not.”
Ankita Lokhande, who brought to life the character of Yamuna Bai, expressed her appreciation for the role. “Portraying Yamuna Bai, the wife of the legendary Veer Savarkar, was a truly fulfilling experience as an actor as this is a character unlike anything I have essayed before, and I feel truly honored to have brought her story to life. During filming, I had the opportunity to learn about Yamuna Bai, and I was blown away with the kind of strength and support she showed towards her husband.
. I learned so much being her. This role has definitely helped me to grow as an actress, and I hope to get more of such opportunities to portray such women on screen in my upcoming films as well. As an actor, it is a privilege to be a part of a project that entertains, educates, and celebrates the unsung heroes of our history. It has been a humbling and enriching journey, and I hope viewers will feel the same way after watching the film on ZEE5.”
“Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” boasts an ensemble cast that includes Amit Sial, Mrinal Dutt, Rajesh Khera, Chetan Swaroop, Chirag Pandya, Santosh Ojha, Lokesh Mittal, Rahul Kulkarni, and Balkrishna Mishra, among others, in pivotal supporting roles. Each actor’s portrayal contributes to the panoramic re-telling of VD Savarkar’s life and times, gripping the audience with their performances.
Beyond entertainment, the film serves as an educational experience and a lens through which viewers can explore the intricate layers of a leader whose legacy continues to provoke debate. By unraveling the narrative of VD Savarkar, the movie aims to ignite discussions and encourage viewers to form their own opinions based on factual representation rather than popular assumptions.
The OTT release of “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar” on ZEE5 marks a significant milestone, not just for the film’s team but also for the digital audience who seek historical narratives. The platform ZEE5, known for its diverse content, adds yet another feather in its cap by premiering a movie that delves into a crucial era of Indian independence.
As the film gears up for its digital premiere, it stands as a testament to storytelling that dares to challenge the status quo. For Randeep Hooda and Ankita Lokhande, this project is more than just a cinematic endeavor; it’s a chance to honor the lesser-known chapters of Indian history and introduce audiences to a character as contentious as he is heroic.
To catch “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar,” set a reminder for May 28 on ZEE5 and prepare to embark on a historical journey that promises to both educate and provoke thought. This digital release not only celebrates a revolutionary figure but also invites viewers to reconsider the narratives they have understood and accepted about India’s fight for independence.
