To mark the 141st birth anniversary of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, actor and director Randeep Hooda announced the OTT release of his debut film, ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’, now streaming on ZEE5. The film offers a cinematic portrayal of one of Bharat’s most influential and controversial figures from the independence struggle.
“On his 141st Birth Anniversary, relive the story of the one who sparked a revolution against all odds and became the Most Dangerous Revolutionary of Bharat. Swatantrya Veer Savarkar now streaming, only on ZEE5. #ReliveSavarkarOnZEE5 #VeerSavarkarOnZEE5,” Hooda posted on X.
Hooda, who plays Savarkar in the film, also makes his directorial debut with this project. Ankita Lokhande stars as Yamuna Bai, Savarkar’s wife.
Born on May 28, 1883, in Bhagur, Savarkar is remembered for his fervent dedication to India’s independence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the freedom fighter, stating, “Tribute to the great freedom fighter Veer Savarkar ji on his birth anniversary, who dedicated his life in the service of the motherland.”
Hooda responded to the PM’s tribute, encouraging audiences to watch his film, “On the Birth Anniversary of Most Influential and Visionary Revolutionary of Akhand Bharat #VeerSavarkar, #SwatantryaVeerSavarkar streaming now on @ZEE5India. Watch His Story! Naman.”
In honour of Savarkar’s 141st birth anniversary, Hooda visited the Cellular Jail in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where Savarkar was sentenced to multiple life terms totalling 50 years. Reflecting on his connection with the role, Hooda shared, “After studying Savarkar’s entire story and trying to live his life and portray it on screen, I became very involved in it. When people who knew Veer Savarkar, like his family and those close to him, such as the Mangeshkar family, gave me a pat on the back saying that I portrayed him very well, truthfully, and powerfully, it felt great because such validation is often very rare.”
Released on March 22 in both Hindi and Marathi, ‘Swatantrya Veer Savarkar’ is now available for streaming on ZEE5.