Teachers' Day 2024: Five Movies That Perfectly Celebrate Mentorship And Education

On Teachers' Day (September 5), cinema offers a heartfelt tribute to educators through various narratives. Films like 'Jagriti' (1954), 'Imtihaan' (1974), and 'Dead Poets Society' (1989) explore the intricate bond between mentors and students. These stories highlight the profound impact teachers have on their pupils.

'Super 30' questions whether marginalised youth can access quality education. The film is based on Anand Kumar, a mathematician whose dreams were thwarted by his circumstances. He then started a free coaching program for underprivileged students in Patna. The story follows his efforts to train 30 students for the IIT entrance exam amidst significant challenges, including death threats and an attempt on his life. Directed by Vikas Bahl, it stars Hrithik Roshan, Mrunal Thakur, Pankaj Tripathi, Aditya Srivastava, Veerendra Saxena, and Vijay Varma. Watch it on Disney+ Hotstar.

'Sir Sir Sarla,' written and directed by Makarand Deshpande, debuted in 2001 and has been performed widely across India. The Zee Theatre teleplay version has also captivated audiences of all ages. The plot revolves around Sarla, an idealistic student who falls for Professor Palekar. He persuades her to marry a wealthy man, but she returns years later to confront him. Phanidhar, who loved Sarla, is also affected by Palekar's decisions. The play stars Deshpande himself, Aahana Kumra, Sanjay Dadhich, and Anjum Sharma. Filmed by Suman Mukhopadhyay, it airs on 6th September 2024 on Airtel Spotlight, Dish TV Rangmanch Active and D2H Rangmanch Active.

Chak De! India

'Chak De! India' is not only about women's sports but also highlights the significance of inspired coaching. It tells the story of a former hockey player with a troubled past who decides to coach a struggling women's national hockey team. His first challenge is to unite the divided team members and then guide them to reach their potential despite facing sexism and discrimination. The team eventually wins the Women's Hockey World Cup. Directed by Shimit Amin, it stars Shah Rukh Khan, Vidya Malvade, Shilpa Shukla, Sagarika Ghatge, Chitrashi Rawat, Anjan Srivastav and Vibha Chibber. Available on Prime Video.

Aarakshan

The film 'Aarakshan,' directed by Prakash Jha, addresses the contentious issue of reservation with sensitivity and power. Amitabh Bachchan plays Dr. Prabhakar Anand, an idealistic principal at STM College who aims to make quality education accessible to all students regardless of caste or economic background. When a power struggle erupts within the faculty and student body, he is forced to choose sides and leave his post. He then starts free classes for needy students; his success threatens coaching centres and STM itself. The film also features Saif Ali Khan, Manoj Bajpayee, Deepika Padukone and Prateik Babbar. Watch it on Amazon Prime Video.

To Sir, With Love

E.R. Braithwaite's autobiographical novel 'To Sir, With Love' was adapted into a film starring Sidney Poitier as Mark Thackeray in 1959. Thackeray is a black engineer who faces racial discrimination in the job market and ends up teaching at an under-resourced school for academic rejects. He teaches them self-respect and ignites their passion for learning while encouraging them to chase their dreams. Directed by James Clavell, the film also stars Judy Geeson, Christian Roberts, Suzy Kendall and Lulu. Available on Apple TV or rent it on Amazon Prime Video.

These films offer diverse perspectives on the teacher-student relationship while highlighting significant social issues through compelling storytelling.