Over the years, filmmakers have brought India’s rich heritage to life, showcasing everything from the opulent Mughal courts to the struggles of India’s fight for independence. This enduring love for historical narratives reflects Bollywood’s deep-seated desire to honor India’s glorious past while offering modern interpretations of historical events.   One of the most iconic films in this genre is Mughal-E-Azam (1960), directed by K. Asif. This cinematic masterpiece showcased the Mughal Empire’s grandeur and revolved around the love story of Prince Salim and Anarkali. At a time when Bollywood was still experimenting with its identity, Mughal-E-Azam set the standard for historical dramas, becoming one of the most expensive and lavish productions of its time. Its massive sets, authentic costumes, and larger-than-life performances brought a sense of historical authenticity to the silver screen, inspiring generations of filmmakers to explore India's history through period dramas.  

As Bollywood progressed into the 21st century, directors like Sanjay Leela Bhansali reignited interest in historical narratives. Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani (2015) emerged as a significant milestone in period dramas, blending historical elements with fictionalized romance. The film tells the story of the Maratha warrior Peshwa Bajirao and his love for the Muslim princess Mastani. Bhansali’s impeccable attention to detail, from the architecture of the Maratha Empire to the nuances of the characters' costumes, created a visual spectacle that resonated deeply with audiences. The film’s success showcased Bollywood’s ability to revive historical narratives in a way that resonated with both national pride and contemporary relevance.   One cannot talk about Bollywood period dramas without mentioning Jodhaa Akbar (2008). Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, the film brought to life the love story of Mughal Emperor Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhaa Bai. Known for his meticulous research and attention to historical accuracy, Gowariker created a film that beautifully blended romance and politics. The film highlighted the cultural and religious harmony between Hindus and Muslims during Akbar’s reign, showcasing how Bollywood period dramas often mirror the socio-political context of modern India.

Jodhaa Akbar was not just a love story but also a commentary on unity amidst diversity, a message that continues to resonate in contemporary India.   Another film that added to Bollywood’s exploration of India’s past is Padmaavat (2018), also directed by Bhansali. Based on the legend of Rani Padmavati of Chittor, the film stirred significant controversy, with debates surrounding its historical accuracy and representation of Rajput culture. Despite these challenges, Padmaavat became a box-office hit, largely due to its grand visuals, powerful performances, and dramatic storytelling. The film also explored themes of pride, sacrifice, and honor, further cementing Bollywood’s fascination with historical figures that symbolize bravery and resistance.   Apart from the grandeur of royal courts, Bollywood has also ventured into colonial India, offering a glimpse of the country's fight for independence. Lagaan (2001), directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, became an international sensation, even earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Set in the late 19th century during British rule, Lagaan tells the fictional story of Indian villagers who challenge British officers to a game of cricket to avoid paying taxes. The film’s unique combination of sports and history created a compelling narrative about resistance against colonial oppression. Its success demonstrated how Bollywood could blend entertainment with historical narratives to create films that are both informative and engaging.   Bollywood’s love for period dramas extends to biographical films as well, particularly those focused on Indian freedom fighters. Rajkumar Santoshi’s The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002) is a standout example.

This film chronicles the life of Bhagat Singh, a revolutionary who played a key role in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. Through Bhagat Singh’s story, the film highlighted the sacrifices made by young revolutionaries in the face of colonial oppression. It also reignited interest in India’s freedom struggle, drawing attention to a crucial period in the nation’s history.   Another notable film is Mangal Pandey: The Rising (2005), directed by Ketan Mehta. Set against the backdrop of the 1857 Indian rebellion, the film depicts the life of Mangal Pandey, a soldier whose actions sparked India’s First War of Independence. Mangal Pandey delved into the socio-political climate of colonial India, addressing issues like exploitation and cultural tensions. By revisiting this period, the film reminded modern audiences of the roots of India’s independence movement and the enduring spirit of resistance that continues to define the nation today.   The 2020 release of Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, directed by Om Raut, further reinforced Bollywood’s love affair with period dramas. The film, set in the 17th century, tells the story of Tanaji Malusare, a military leader in the Maratha empire. Known for its intense action sequences and patriotic themes, Tanhaji celebrated Maratha valor and the importance of defending one’s land against invaders. The film became a huge commercial success, demonstrating how historical narratives continue to appeal to modern audiences, particularly when they evoke a sense of national pride.  

Bollywood period dramas are not only about recreating historical events but also about reflecting contemporary issues through the lens of history. Directors often use creative liberty to introduce fictional elements or reinterpret historical figures in a way that appeals to today’s audience. While this approach sometimes sparks debates over historical accuracy, it also raises important questions about how cinema shapes public perceptions of history. Films like Padmaavat and Bajirao Mastani sparked discussions about gender dynamics, religious tolerance, and cultural identity, suggesting that Bollywood’s engagement with history is as much about the present as it is about the past.   Moreover, the visual appeal of period dramas plays a significant role in their success. The intricate costumes, lavish sets, and detailed production designs transport audiences to a different time, enhancing the immersive experience. Renowned costume designers like Neeta Lulla (Jodhaa Akbar) and Anju Modi (Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat) have brought historical periods to life through their creations, adding authenticity to the characters and the world they inhabit. Music composers like A.R. Rahman have also contributed to the success of these films, with soundtracks that evoke the emotions of the historical periods they represent.  

Bollywood’s love affair with period dramas reflects its desire to explore and celebrate India’s rich historical and cultural heritage. These films offer audiences a chance to revisit the past while grappling with contemporary themes of identity, nationalism, and unity. Whether it’s the romance of the Mughal courts, the valor of Maratha warriors, or the resistance against British rule, Bollywood’s period dramas continue to captivate audiences, blending history with cinematic spectacle in a way that few genres can.