Released the same year as Santoshi’s film, this lesser-known but cult favorite starred (in a breakout role). It is more traditional, focusing heavily on the friendship between Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru. While lower in budget, Sood’s physicality and charisma gave us a larger-than-life, folk-hero version of Bhagat Singh.

Do you prefer the stoic martyr or the angry revolutionary?

Here's a brief summary of the movie:

If you want to understand the anger and the adrenaline of the movement, watch the action sequences. But if you want to understand the soul of Bhagat Singh—the man who read Lenin in prison and refused to beg for his life—watch the quiet moments in Rajkumar Santoshi’s film.

The film depicts Bhagat Singh's strong convictions, courage, and sacrifice. He is eventually arrested, tortured, and put on trial for murder and sedition. The famous courtroom scene, where Bhagat Singh declares, "I am a socialist, and a patriot, not a terrorist," showcases his bravery and oratory skills.

Here is a look at how different filmmakers have framed the legend.