As much as the holy occasion of Independence Day is filled with enthusiasm and patriotism for the countrymen, it is considered an equally big and profitable opportunity for the film industry and the makers. Taking advantage of the long weekend of 15th August, many big films are released in theatres, which have broken all the old records of earning at the box office. From Amitabh Bachchan to Shahrukh Khan, Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan and Sunny Deol, films of big names like Sunny Deol have created history by releasing on this special occasion. Let us know about those 5 historical films, which were released on the occasion of Independence Day and made a lot of money at the box office.
1. Sholay (1975): The biggest milestone of Indian cinema
Whenever the greatest films in Hindi cinema history are mentioned, the cult classic “Sholay,” directed by Ramesh Sippy, will always be mentioned. Starring Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra, the film was released in theaters on August 15, 1975. In its initial days, it seemed the film would flop at the box office, but the historic miracle that followed changed the very definition of Indian cinema. Made on a budget of just ₹2.5 crore (25 million rupees), the film grossed approximately ₹150-350 million (250-300 million rupees) at the time, equivalent to ₹250-300 million (250-300 million rupees) today.
2. Chak De! India (2007): Shah Rukh Khan’s patriotic masterpiece
Shah Rukh Khan’s stellar performance in “Chak De! India” was released on August 10, 2007, right around Independence Day. Shah Rukh Khan’s powerful portrayal of a hockey coach left a lasting impression on audiences. Made on a budget of approximately ₹22 crore (approximately $22 million), this sports drama performed exceptionally well at the box office, grossing nearly ₹91 crore (approximately $91 million) worldwide. It remains one of audiences’ all-time favorites.
3. Ek Tha Tiger (2012): The biggest turning point in Salman Khan’s career
Directed by Kabir Khan and released on August 15, 2012, the spy-thriller “Ek Tha Tiger” proved to be a milestone in superstar Salman Khan’s career. The film established Salman Khan as a true box office tiger. Made on a budget of approximately ₹75 crore, this blockbuster film created a sensation at the box office, grossing nearly ₹350 crore and thoroughly entertaining audiences.
4. Singham Returns (2014): Ajay Devgn’s action and Dabangg style
Directed by Rohit Shetty and featuring Ajay Devgn’s powerful performance, “Singham Returns” hit theaters on Independence Day, August 15, 2014. This action film was a box office smash, and fans adored Ajay Devgn’s cop avatar. Made with a budget of approximately ₹70 crore (approximately $70 million), the film performed remarkably well at the box office, grossing over ₹220 crore (approximately $220 million).
5. Gadar 2 (2023): Sunny Deol’s storm and shatters all box office records
Sunny Deol’s powerful comeback once again proved what true stardom is. Directed by Anil Sharma, “Gadar 2” released on Independence Day and wreaked havoc at the box office beyond anyone’s imagination. Made on a budget of just ₹60 crore, the film achieved a historic box office gross of nearly ₹690 crore, immortalizing its name in the pages of history.