Aarakshan (2011)

Prakash Jha's Aarakshan delves into the debate around India's reservation policy and its impact on the education system. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik Babbar, the film features several protest scenes as students and political groups take to the streets over the contentious issue.

Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003)

Sudhir Mishra's Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi features several powerful scenes of student protests and political demonstrations set against the backdrop of the Emergency and the Naxalite movement. Starring Kay Kay Menon, Shiney Ahuja and Chitrangada Singh, the film captures the idealism of young activists who take to the streets demanding social and political change.

Gabbar Is Back (2015)

Gabbar Is Back, starring Akshay Kumar, follows a vigilante who wages a war against corruption by targeting dishonest officials. While the film is driven by action, it also features scenes of public protests and growing citizen support against systemic corruption.

The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)

The Legend of Bhagat Singh chronicles the life of revolutionary Bhagat Singh and his fearless resistance against British colonial rule. Starring Ajay Devgn in the titular role, the film features powerful protest sequences, public demonstrations and slogans against oppression.

Kaala (2018)

Kaala, starring Rajinikanth, revolves around the struggle of Dharavi residents fighting to protect their homes and land from powerful political and corporate forces. Directed by Pa. Ranjith, the film features large-scale protests, rallies and acts of collective resistance led by Kaala against forced evictions.

Rang De Basanti (2006)

Rang De Basanti remains one of Bollywood's most powerful films on youth activism and protest. Starring Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, Atul Kulkarni and Soha Ali Khan, the Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra directorial follows a group of carefree youngsters whose lives change after the death of a close friend. Their fight for justice transforms into a larger movement against corruption.

Jai Bhim (2021)

Jai Bhim follows advocate Chandru, played by Suriya, as he fights for justice for an oppressed tribal family after a man is wrongfully arrested and goes missing in police custody. While the film centres on a courtroom battle, it also depicts public outrage, protests and collective action against caste discrimination and police brutality.

Sardar Udham (2021)

Sardar Udham traces the life of freedom fighter Udham Singh and the events that shaped his resolve after the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Starring Vicky Kaushal, the film powerfully depicts peaceful public gatherings that were met with brutal violence, highlighting the suppression of dissent under British rule.

No One Killed Jessica (2011)

No One Killed Jessica portrays one of Bollywood's most powerful protest movements inspired by a real-life case. Starring Vidya Balan and Rani Mukerji, the film shows candlelight marches, public demonstrations and a media-driven campaign demanding justice for Jessica Lal after the accused were acquitted.

Main Azaad Hoon (1989)

Tinnu Anand's Main Azaad Hoon culminates in a powerful public protest as thousands of ordinary citizens gather in support of Azaad, played by Amitabh Bachchan, who becomes the voice of the common man against corruption and injustice. The film uses mass demonstrations and public mobilisation to show how one individual's fight can inspire collective action.

Yuva (2004)

Mani Ratnam's Yuva explored student politics, youth leadership and the power of political participation. Starring Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan, Vivek Oberoi, Rani Mukerji, Esha Deol and Kareena Kapoor Khan, the film follows three young men whose lives intersect through a student movement that challenges corruption and violence.

Satyagraha (2013)

Prakash Jha's Satyagraha explored the power of peaceful protest against corruption and the demand for accountability from those in power. Featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Arjun Rampal and Manoj Bajpayee, the political drama follows an elderly activist who launches a mass movement after facing injustice.