As India celebrates its 77th Republic Day, the tradition of revisiting patriotic cinema remains a staple for audiences across the country. While the nostalgia of the 1990s classics continues to hold a special place, the last few years have seen a surge in high-octane, technically advanced war dramas and espionage thrillers. This year’s lineup is particularly strong, featuring fresh theatrical blockbusters alongside recent streaming hits that redefine national pride for a modern audience.
Border 2
Leading the charge this season is the monumental release of Border 2. Directed by Anurag Singh and released just days ago on 23 January 2026, the film serves as a spiritual successor to J.P. Dutta’s 1997 epic. Starring Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, and Diljit Dosanjh, the narrative shifts focus from the Battle of Longewala to Operation Chengiz Khan during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. It has already garnered praise for its scale and emotional resonance, making it the definitive theatrical pick for the holiday.
Dhurandhar
Parallel to this is Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar, which emerged as a massive commercial success following its late 2025 release. Led by Ranveer Singh, the film is a sprawling spy thriller inspired by real-world events including the IC-814 hijacking. While it sparked debate for its intense tone, its status as one of the highest-grossing Indian films of the past year makes it essential viewing for those seeking a grit-heavy, modern take on national security.
Uri: The Surgical Strike
Since its release, Uri: The Surgical Strike has become a staple for national holidays. The film, which dramatises the Indian Army’s retaliatory strikes following the 2016 Uri attack, is credited with revitalising the modern Indian war film. Its emphasis on tactical precision, night-vision combat, and the emotional weight of military loss has kept it relevant. For many, the “How’s the Josh?” dialogue remains the definitive anthem of Republic Day celebrations, making it a must-watch for those catching up on digital platforms.
Raazi
Meghna Gulzar’s Raazi offers a more nuanced and somber take on what it means to serve the country. Based on Harinder Sikka’s novel Calling Sehmat, the film features Alia Bhatt as an undercover Kashmiri spy married into a Pakistani military family during the 1971 war. Unlike the more aggressive action titles, Raazi focuses on the psychological toll of espionage and the silent, often unrecognised sacrifices made behind enemy lines, providing a balanced and deeply moving perspective on national duty.
The Ghazi Attack
For viewers interested in a different theatre of war, The Ghazi Attack remains a standout for its focus on naval bravery. The film explores the mysterious sinking of the Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi during the 1971 conflict. Set almost entirely underwater, it captures the claustrophobic tension of submarine warfare and the strategic brilliance of the Indian Navy. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a technical thriller that highlights a less-documented chapter of Indian military history.
Ikkis
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is a recent biographical drama that has captured the hearts of audiences with its sincerity. The film tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who displayed extraordinary gallantry during the Battle of Basantar. Agastya Nanda’s portrayal of the young officer brings a fresh, human perspective to military sacrifice, focusing on the raw courage of a 21-year-old on the front lines.
Fighter
For those who prefer aerial action, Siddharth Anand’s Fighter remains a top-tier recommendation. Starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, the film is a tribute to the Indian Air Force and its rapid response teams. While it delivers breathtaking dogfights and visual spectacle, it also delves into the personal lives and interpersonal bonds of the pilots. It is an ideal pick for anyone looking for a high-energy, visually stunning cinematic experience this Republic Day.
Shershaah
Shershaah continues to be a perennial favourite for national holidays, documenting the life of Captain Vikram Batra during the Kargil War. Sidharth Malhotra’s performance captures both the charisma and the unwavering bravery of the man known as the “Lion of Kargil.” The film’s emotional depth and its focus on the real-life letters and relationships of the soldiers provide a deeply moving experience that resonates with viewers of all ages.
Kesari 2
