'Labour Day 2023': Sweat, Struggle, and Survival: Depictions of Labours in Bollywood Cinema

Bollywood films have often depicted the struggles of the common man, and one of the most recurring themes in these films is the plight of the labor class. These films highlight the hardships faced by the workers, their struggle for basic rights and the exploitation they face at the hands of their employers. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the Bollywood films that have portrayed the struggles of the labor class.

Do Bigha Zamin (1953) - Directed by Bimal Roy, this film is a classic example of a movie that portrays the struggles of the labor class. The story revolves around a farmer who is forced to become a rickshaw puller in order to repay his debts. The film highlights the harsh realities of the labor class and the exploitation they face at the hands of the wealthy.

Mother India (1957) - This epic film by Mehboob Khan tells the story of a poor peasant woman who struggles to raise her children in the face of poverty and social injustice. The film is a powerful portrayal of the resilience of the human spirit and the struggles faced by the labor class.

Shree 420 (1955) - This Raj Kapoor starrer is a social commentary on the greed and corruption that permeated Indian society in the 1950s. The film revolves around a young man who moves to the city in search of work and is taken advantage of by his greedy employer. The film is a critique of the exploitative nature of capitalism and the need for social change.

Ankush (1986) - Directed by N. Chandra, this film is a searing portrayal of the struggles faced by the labor class in Mumbai. The film revolves around a group of factory workers who are exploited by their boss and must band together to fight for their rights. The film is a powerful indictment of the corruption and exploitation that is rampant in Indian society.

Lagaan (2001) - This Ashutosh Gowariker epic tells the story of a group of Indian villagers who must pay an exorbitant tax to their British rulers. The film is a powerful portrayal of the struggle for independence and the need for collective action in the face of oppression. The film is a celebration of the human spirit and the power of the common man to effect change.

The films mentioned above are just a few examples of the powerful and inspiring stories that Bollywood has told about the labor class. They serve as a reminder of the need for social change and the importance of fighting for the rights of the marginalized.

- PTC PUNJABI