On a balmy February evening in Mumbai, nostalgia hung thick in the air as the cast and crew of Rang De Basanti gathered to mark a milestone that few Indian films have achieved: two decades since its theatrical release. The iconic 2006 movie, which continues to hold a special place in the hearts of cinephiles and social commentators alike, was celebrated with a special screening attended by its principal stars and director. As the lights dimmed and the familiar strains of A.R. Rahman’s soundtrack filled the auditorium, the sense of camaraderie and pride among the film’s creators was unmistakable.
According to Hindustan Times, the event took place on February 7, 2026, drawing together Aamir Khan, Soha Ali Khan, Kunal Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Atul Kulkarni, and director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. Siddharth, who made his Hindi film debut with Rang De Basanti, was also present, as noted by NDTV. The group, visibly elated, donned customized hoodies emblazoned with the film’s title—a playful yet poignant nod to the enduring impact of their work.
The celebration wasn’t just about reminiscing; it was about honoring a film that, as many fans and critics agree, redefined the contours of Indian cinema. The team cut a large chocolate cake, a gesture captured and shared on Instagram by Soha Ali Khan. Her caption summed up the mood: “20 years later - we showed up! A few were missed but the spirit was still.” The simple words, paired with images of laughter and embraces, spoke volumes about the bonds forged during the making of the film and the legacy it has left behind.
For those who need a refresher, Rang De Basanti is a coming-of-age socio-political drama that blends history with contemporary issues. Written, produced, and directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, the film follows a British film student (played by Alice Patten in her Hindi debut) who travels to India to document the lives of five freedom fighters from the nation’s revolutionary movement. In a clever twist, she befriends and casts five young men—portrayed by Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Atul Kulkarni, Sharman Joshi, and Kunal Kapoor—who, inspired by the stories they reenact, begin to confront the injustices of their own time. Waheeda Rehman and Soha Ali Khan round out the ensemble, with Soha’s character paired opposite R Madhavan.
The film’s plot, as described by NDTV, centers on a group of friends from Delhi University who, initially apathetic about politics, are jolted into action by the tragic loss of a friend to government corruption. This turning point awakens a sense of patriotism and responsibility in the group, leading them down a path of activism and, ultimately, sacrifice. The narrative’s deft interweaving of past and present, and its unflinching look at youth disillusionment and hope, resonated deeply with audiences across generations.
It’s no wonder, then, that Rang De Basanti achieved both critical and commercial success. The film won four National Film Awards, including Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment, according to NDTV. Additionally, it was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the 2007 BAFTA Awards, and it served as India’s official entry for the Golden Globe Awards and the Academy Awards in the same category. Such accolades only underscore the film’s rare feat of combining mass appeal with artistic ambition.
But awards and nominations tell only part of the story. The true measure of Rang De Basanti’s impact can be found in the personal anecdotes and memories of those involved. Sharman Joshi, reflecting on the film’s release, recounted a particularly moving compliment from former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. As reported by Hindustan Times, Joshi shared, “When we did a special screening in Delhi, Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji sought me out, hugged me and patted my back and said the line aloud from ‘Roobaroo’: ‘Sooraj ko main nigal gaya.’ It spoke to the poet in him.” Such moments, blending art and politics, highlight the film’s deep cultural roots.
The reunion itself was a testament to the enduring spirit of the film and its makers. The cast’s decision to wear matching hoodies, as described by NDTV, was more than a fashion statement—it was a symbol of unity and shared purpose. Soha Ali Khan’s social media posts, filled with behind-the-scenes photos and videos, captured not only the joy of reunion but also the bittersweet absence of some cast members. Still, as she wrote, “the spirit was still,” a sentiment echoed by all present.
What makes Rang De Basanti such a touchstone in Indian cinema? Part of the answer lies in its fearless engagement with themes that remain as relevant today as they were twenty years ago: youth activism, the fight against corruption, and the enduring power of collective action. The film’s structure—juxtaposing the stories of early 20th-century revolutionaries with the struggles of modern-day students—invites viewers to draw connections between past and present, urging them to consider their own role in shaping society.
The film’s influence extended beyond the screen. Following its release, there were reports of increased youth participation in civic movements, with many citing the movie as a catalyst for their activism. The soundtrack, composed by A.R. Rahman, became anthems for a generation. Songs like “Roobaroo” and “Luka Chuppi” continue to evoke powerful emotions, serving as reminders of the film’s message and its call to action.
Director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, whose vision brought the story to life, was present at the Mumbai screening, visibly moved by the occasion. The gathering was not just a celebration of the film’s past but a reaffirmation of its relevance. As the credits rolled and the audience—comprised of cast, crew, and a few lucky fans—applauded, it was clear that Rang De Basanti remains more than just a film; it’s a living, breathing part of India’s cultural fabric.
In an era when cinema is often accused of being disposable, the 20th-anniversary celebration of Rang De Basanti stands as proof that some stories endure. They inspire, provoke, and unite—sometimes all at once. As the cast cut cake and shared memories, one couldn’t help but wonder what new revolutions might be sparked by the next generation of storytellers, inspired by the legacy of this unforgettable film.