Exploring Two Facets of Cinematic Nationalism: Revisiting Lagaan and Swades

Sumanta Pariyar

Abstract: Nationalism, as scholars argue, is not merely a political ideology but a cultural sentiment expressed through collective belonging, shared memory, and aspirations for a nation's future. Indian cinema, particularly Bollywood, has served as one of the most influential cultural mediums for articulating nationalistic narratives. This paper explores two distinct yet interconnected facets of cinematic nationalism by examining Ashutosh Gowariker's Lagaan (2001) and Swades (2004). Lagaan depicts pre-independence resistance against British colonial rule, using cricket as a metaphor for empowerment, unity and subaltern assertion. Swades, on the other hand, expands nationalism in the post-independence era through themes of development, responsibility, and self-driven civic engagement. Through thematic analysis, this paper argues that Lagaan represents nationalism rooted in anti-colonial struggle and communal unity, whereas Swades advances a non-violent developmental nationalism beyond rhetoric. Drawing on Andrew Vincent's and Benedict Anderson's theories of nationalism, the study examines how cinema constructs collective identity. The findings highlight how Gowariker shifts nationalism from external confrontation (Lagaan) to internal introspection (Swades), offering a holistic view of the nation's past challenges and future responsibilities.

Keywords: Cinematic Nationalism; Indian Cinema; Lagaan; Swades; Nation-Building

How to Cite?: Sumanta Pariyar, "Exploring Two Facets of Cinematic Nationalism: Revisiting Lagaan and Swades", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 30-33, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251130194203, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251130194203