Visual storytelling is the most effective way to learn history. There are many historical dramas available today through which you can understand the motivations of historical figures, warriors, and the morals of the olden days. Har Har Mahadev, one of the most recent films, provides insight into the life and times of the Maratha warrior Baji Prabhu Deshpande and his devotion to Shivaji Maharaj, who is credited with establishing the Maratha empire. You can watch the film on ZEE5, and remember to add these other Maratha empire-themed films to your watchlist.
1. Har Har Mahadev
This film is the newest addition to the list of historical drama movies. Written and directed by Abhijeet Deshpande, Har Har Mahadev explores the reign of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Subodh Bhave) and the relationship with his commander Baji Prabhu Deshpande (Sharad Kelkar). The movie highlights the valiant actions taken by Baji Prabhu and other Maratha soldiers to safeguard their Maharaj from the enemies in the battle of Pavan Khind. You can expect a lot of action sequences and sword fighting in the movie. Har Har Mahadev will premiere on ZEE5 Global on December 9.
2. Pawankhind
Pawankhind is another film that revolves around the Maratha warrior Baji Prabhu Deshpande. The Battle of Pavan Khind, one of the most well-known events in Maratha history, serves as the inspiration for the movie. It took place between Siddi Masud of the Adilshah Sultanate and Maratha warrior Baji Prabhu in the vicinity of fort Vishalgad in Kolhapur, Maharashtra. The makers of the movie are upfront about the fact that this is a cinematic recreation intended to highlight the valor of the Marathas who were involved in this battle.
3. Hirkani
The movie borrows from Marathi history, but surprisingly, it’s not about any of the conflicts that were typically connected to that time. In reality, it tells the story of a mother named Hirkani, a woman willing to go down a sheer cliff to find her child in the valley town of Raigadwadi. The story demonstrates Hirkani’s respect for Shivaji Maharaj, her loyalty to Jeevaji Rao, and her love and care for the infant.
4. Bajirao Mastani
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani is a historical drama set during the Maratha Empire. It takes you on a journey of a young clever prince ascending the throne to becoming a ferocious Maratha general, Peshwa Bajirao Ballal. When Bajirao and Mastani fall in love, there is a conflict because Kashi, Bajirao’s current wife, and Radhabai, his domineering mother, are opposed to the union. The film is a visual treat as it shows the magnificent structures of the Maratha Empire, including the Shaniwar Wada and Aina Mahal. Crucial elements like the songs, costumes, and dialogues add to the magic of that era.
5. Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior
The movie is based on the life of Tanaji Malusare, a Maratha warrior and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s general in the 17th century. It describes how the forces of Mughal commander Udaybhan Rathod were routed, and the former Kondana, now known as Sinhagad, was conquered. It tells the story of the battle in which Tanaji and his brother Suryaji led their troops to retake Kondana Fort. Tanaji succeeded in taking the fort but lost his own life.