Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti: Who Played Gandhi’s Character Best On-Screen?

October 2 is celebrated around the nation as Gandhi Jayanti, in the honour of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was born on October 2, 1869. The day is marked by prayer services and tributes around the nation, encouraging a non-violent way of life as Gandhi’s effort to fight against the Britishers for the Independence of India.

Considering the importance of the day and the person, Bollywood has created a number of films on the life of Gandhi. While a lot of films have been made, a few of them have had a powerful impact on the audience.

More than the film, it was the lead actors like Ben Kingslay, Naseeruddin Shah, Rajit Kapoor, Dilip Prabhavalkar, Darshan Jariwala who left their mark on the audience.

Ben Kingslay in Gandhi

Richard Attenborough directorial film ‘Gandhi’ is one of the most beautiful takes on the life of the iconic leader. The film goes on to win the Academy awards for multiple categories. Ben is mostly known for his spellbinding performance in this film as he turned into Gandhi. He even bagged the Academy award for it.

Naseeruddin Shah in Hey Raam

Naseeruddin Shah is one of the most versatile actors of the Indian film industry. He got to recreate the surreal personality of Mahatma Gandhi in 2000 release, ‘Hey Raam’. The movie was a surreal take on the feelings of Hindus towards Gandhi directed by Kamal Hassan. Naseeruddin was miraculous on screen.

Rajit Kapoor in The Making Of Mahatma

The 1996 movie ‘The Making Of Mahatma’ is an Indian- South African film, directed by Shyam Benegal. The film tells the story of Mahatma Gandhi’s stay in South Africa. Rajit Kapoor convinces the audience with his brilliant act and tells a powerful story of the strong will of the Mahatma.

Darshan Jariwala in Gandhi, My Father

Darshan Jariwala played the role of Mahatma Gandhi in 2007 release, ‘Gandhi, My Father’, which told the story of Gandhi’s relationship with his son Hiralal. Darshan Jariwala was amazing in his performance and Akshaye Khanna played the role of his son.

Dilip Prabhavalkar in Lage Raho Munna Bhai

While ‘Lage Raho Munna Bhai’ doesn’t revolve around the life of Mahatma, it sure gives his teaching to the audience. Dilip Prabhavalkar was beautiful in his easy portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi in 2006 released film. The ease and soft tone with which Dilip Prabhavalkar delivered his dialogues was so much Gandhi-like.

So, who do you think played the character of Mahatma Gandhi best?