Actor and filmmaker Randeep Hooda took to social media on May 28, 2025, to commemorate the 142nd birth anniversary of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, sharing a heartfelt and politically resonant post that reaffirms his deep connection to the revolutionary figure. The tribute comes over a year after the release of his ambitious directorial debut, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, which Hooda not only directed and co-wrote but also headlined in the titular role.
In his post, Hooda wrote: "On the 142nd birth anniversary of Swatantrya Veer Savarkar, let’s celebrate the revolutionary who dared to dream of a free and strong Bharat. Portraying him, directing his journey, and writing his story has been the most intense and humbling experience of my life. His vision of a resilient, self-reliant nation is no longer a distant dream — it’s becoming a reality. Jai Hind."
Hooda’s words reflect his ongoing admiration for Savarkar, a polarizing figure in Indian history. While Savarkar is credited with pioneering the idea of armed resistance against British colonialism, he is also criticized for his Hindutva ideology and his controversial legacy surrounding religious nationalism and alleged British collaboration. The actor’s framing of Savarkar as a visionary of today’s India subtly aligns with current nationalist narratives, resonating with a growing political interest in redefining historical legacies through cultural and cinematic storytelling.
Released on March 22, 2024, Swatantrya Veer Savarkar sparked widespread conversation across the political and cinematic landscape. Though the film garnered praise for its bold performances and ambitious scope, it also faced critique for its interpretation of history — particularly from scholars and political commentators concerned about the romanticizing of Savarkar’s ideology amid India's shifting sociopolitical climate.
Hooda’s post, arriving amidst renewed national debates over school curriculum revisions and the portrayal of historical figures, adds to the momentum of discussions on how India chooses to remember its freedom fighters. His statement, “His vision... is becoming a reality,” can be read as a clear nod to the contemporary ideological shifts that are reshaping public discourse around nationalism, identity, and historical pride.
As India continues to grapple with its complex past, voices like Randeep Hooda’s — delivered through powerful performances and provocative cinema — are contributing to how future generations will interpret the nation's freedom struggle and those who shaped it.
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