From “Jagriti” (1954), “Imtihaan” (1974), and “Dead Poets Society” (1989), films have poignantly honored educators on numerous occasions. See theatrical and cinematic productions that illuminate the myriad subtleties of the mentor-student connection on September 5, Teachers’ Day.

Sir Sir Sarla

The play Sir Sir Sarla, penned and directed by Makarand Deshpande, made its stage debut in 2001 and has subsequently enjoyed considerable popularity throughout India. It has captured the attention of viewers of all ages as a Zee Theatre teleplay as well. The touching story follows Sarla, an idealistic student, and Professor Palekar’s friendship. Years later, when Sarla returns to confront him, he persuades her to marry an affluent guy when she starts to feel something for him. Phanidhar, who adored Sarla, is another individual who has been affected by Professor Palekar’s choices. Observing the three of them negotiate the ensuing emotional maelstrom is fascinating.

The play stars Deshpande himself, Aahana Kumra, Sanjay Dadhich, and Anjum Sharma.

Filmed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, the teleplay can be watched on 6th September 2024 on Airtel Spotlight, Dish TV Rangmanch Active and D2H Rangmanch Active.

Super 30

Do young people on the margins have equitable access to high-quality education? The movie ‘Super 30’ poses this query. Based on the life of Anand Kumar, a gifted mathematician whose circumstances prevented him from pursuing higher education, the movie tells the story of how he went on to establish a free tutoring program for impoverished Patna students. The narrative describes his battles against overwhelming obstacles, threats of murder, and even an assault on his life as he prepares 30 pupils for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) admission exam. “Super 30” is proof of the wonders a dedicated teacher can work in the lives of his pupils.

Directed by Vikas Bahl, the film stars Hrithik Roshan, Mrunal Thakur, Pankaj Tripathi, Aditya Srivastava, Veerendra Saxena, and Vijay Varma.

Watch it on Disney+ Hotstar.

Chak De! India

This inspiring movie explores the value of inspired coaching in addition to the underappreciation of women’s sports. It depicts how a troubled and sharply divided women’s national hockey team chooses a former hockey player with a traumatic past to coach them. Bringing the team together as a cohesive one is his first responsibility. After that, he will mentor them to realize their full potential in the face of bigotry, sexism, and prejudice. The group goes on to win the Women’s Hockey World Cup.

Directed by Shimit Amin, ‘Chak De! India’ stars Shah Rukh Khan, Vidya Malvade, Shilpa Shukla, Sagarika Ghatge, Chitrashi Rawat, Anjan Srivastav and Vibha Chibber. Watch it on Prime Video.

To Sir, With Love

The 1959 autobiographical novel “To Sir, With Love” by E. R. Braithwaite became well-known worldwide when it was made into a movie starring Sidney Poitier. Poitier portrays Mark Thackeray, a black engineer who is compelled to work at a resource-starved school of academic rejects after experiencing severe racial discrimination in the job market. What makes this movie so iconic is how Mark instills in them a love of learning, self-respect, and pursuing their goals.

Directed by James Clavell, the film also stars Judy Geeson, Christian Roberts, Suzy Kendall, and Lulu. You can watch it on Apple TV or rent it on Amazon Prime Video.

Aarakshan

The controversial subject of reservations is handled sensitively and powerfully in this Prakash Jha film. Dr. Prabhakar Anand, the idealistic principal of the esteemed STM College, is portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan. His goal is to provide all students, regardless of caste or socioeconomic status, with access to high-quality education; nevertheless, when a power struggle emerges between the faculty and students, he is compelled to take a side and resign from his position. He then started teaching underprivileged kids for free, and soon after, his popularity started to pose a challenge to STM and coaching centers. The story’s poignant conclusion emphasizes the fact that a sizable portion of India’s youth will continue to be ignored unless social injustices are addressed.

‘Aarakshan’ also stars Saif Ali Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Deepika Padukone and Prateik Babbar.

Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

Priyanka Dutta