Popular Period films of Marathi Cinema

Periodic films have become the trending topic these days. Not only does Bollywood but also the Marathi film industry has an amazing lineup of films based on historical events. These films are a blend of both fact and fiction. Here are some masterpieces which were not just box office hits, but also ruled our hearts.

'Lokmanya – Ek Yug Purush' is a film that brought the life of Bal Gangadhar Tilak to the big screen in an unusual and powerful way. The film explains Tilak's idea of Swarajya and his opposition to Hindu reforms. Set in the 1800's the cinematography is commendable. Subodh Bhave deserves special appreciation for portraying Tilak’s greatness with such tact and finesse. Om Raut's efforts to recreate that era so efficiently deserves a round of applause.

'Farzand', which marked Digpal Lanjekar's directorial debut, is based on an interesting story of the great Maratha warrior, Kondaji Farzand. It's about how one of Shivaji's bravest generals, Kondaji and 60 Mavlas captured the fort of Panhala by defeating Beshakh Khan, who posed a big threat during Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's coronation. Chinmay Mandlekar as Shivaji, Ankit Mohan as Kondaji Farzand and Prasad Oak as Bahirji Naik have done complete justice to their roles in the film.

'Rama Madhav' brings to the big screen, the immortal story of Rama and Madhav, of the Peshwa dynasty. Set in 'Shaniwarwada' this historical Drama is directed by Mrinal Kulkarni. The film has some interesting characters whose names have been very popular in history books. The film that chronicles the battle of 'Panipat', has some stellar performances and brilliant set design by Nitin Desai.

'Ek Krantiveer: Vasudev Balwant Phadke', by Gajendra Ahire pictures the pre-independence era, with the many revolts and struggles of Vasudev Balwant Phadke. It chronicles the efforts of his revolutionary group "Ramoshi", who started an armed movement and captured the city of Pune for a while. The group launched raids and obtained the funds to feed farmers. It's a story of how Phadke, even after being exiled, continued his revolt against the British. Ajinkya Dev has done complete justice to his character, making this story on the struggle for Swarajya worth the watch.

The Yashwant Bhalkar directorial 'Rajmata Jijau', is a story of the great Jijabai, mother of Shivaji Maharaj. The movie puts forth her teachings, values, bravery and even her lesser-known warrior skills. It follows her story and how she raised Shivaji to be one of the greatest rulers of the Maratha empire. Dr Smita Deshmukh as Jijau and Amol Kolhe as Shivaji Raje have done complete justice to their roles.