The highly anticipated Netflix movie Maharaj marking Junaid Khan’s Bollywood debut finally released on the streaming giant. Initially scheduled to release on June 14, 2024, the film was put on hold due to a court petition filed by Vishwa Hindu Parishad for its “controversial” storyline.
For those unaware, Junaid Khan plays Karsandas Mulji. Mulji was a fearless journalist and ardent social reformer known for challenging a powerful religious leader. As a student of the esteemed scholar Dadabhai Naoroji, Mulji passionately advocated for women’s rights and societal change, writing extensively on issues like widow remarriage.
Furthermore, his bold journalism inevitably led to a dramatic courtroom confrontation with the influential Maharajas of the Pushtimarg sect. Apart from Junaid Khan, Siddharth P. Malhotra’s directorial also features Jaideep Ahlawat, Shalini Pandey, and Sharvari Wagh.
Here’s a list of top movies based on true stories like Netflix’s Maharaj.
Maidaan
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Maidaan features Ajay Devgn as Syed Abdul Rahim, the legendary football coach who led the Indian football team to great heights in the 1950s and 1960s. The film showcases Rahim’s relentless efforts to bring Indian football to the global eye, highlighting the challenges and victories along the way.
Directed by Amit Sharma, Maidaan presents a detailed account of Rahim’s innovative strategies and the obstacles he faced, making it a tribute to his legacy in Indian sports akin to Maharaj.
Amar Singh Chamkila
Streaming on: Netflix
This latest popular film chronicles the life of the controversial Punjabi singer Amar Singh Chamkila, known for his provocative lyrics and dynamic performances. Featuring Diljit Dosanjh, the movie showcases Chamkila’s rise to fame, the controversies that surrounded him, and his untimely death.
Moreover, the film offers a poignant look at his impact on Punjabi music and the cultural shifts his music represented. Chamkila’s life story is one of passion and turmoil, making for a compelling watch for those who liked Junaid Khan’s Maharaj.
83
Streaming on: Netflix
83 is a sports drama that tells the story of India’s historic win at the 1983 Cricket World Cup. Ranveer Singh plays the role of the legendary cricketer Kapil Dev. It highlights the underdog spirit of the Indian team and their incredible journey to becoming world champions.
After all, it meticulously recreates the matches, the players’ camaraderie, and the nation’s euphoria, providing an immersive experience for viewers. Moreover, the film offers a nostalgic trip for fans of the sport.
Gangubai Kathiawadi
Streaming on: Netflix
Gangubai Kathiawadi features Alia Bhatt in a popular role inspired by the real-life story of Gangubai, a woman who rose to prominence in Mumbai’s underworld in the 1960s.
The film portrays her journey from a young girl sold into prostitution to an iconic figure in Kamathipura, advocating for women’s rights and welfare. The movie highlights her struggles and triumphs, painting a vivid picture of a woman who defied the odds to become a symbol of empowerment.
Bajirao Mastani
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
A Sanjay Leela Bhansali production, Bajirao Mastani, is a historical romance based on the life of Maratha Peshwa Bajirao I and his love affair with Mastani, a warrior princess.
The film, featuring Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Priyanka Chopra, blends romance and history, bringing to life the grandeur of the Maratha Empire. Moreover, the storyline explores themes of love, duty, and honor, set against the backdrop of political intrigue and warfare much like Netflix’s Maharaj.
Padmaavat
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Also directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Padmaavat is inspired by the epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi. The film stars Deepika Padukone as Rani Padmavati, Shahid Kapoor as Maharawal Ratan Singh, and Ranveer Singh as Sultan Alauddin Khilji.
It portrays the valor and sacrifice of Rani Padmavati in the face of Khilji’s relentless pursuit. Moreover, the period drama offers a visually stunning and emotionally charged story.
All in all, each of these films brings a slice of history to the silver screen, offering a blend of entertainment and education.
