The Emergency in India, which lasted from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977, was a time of political upheaval as well as cinematic glory. Bollywood challenged government censorship and societal shackles, and the result became some of the most iconic movies of Indian cinema. Who can forget these films that thrilled the masses with undertones of the socio-political or plain old storytelling as escape?
Here are notable movies from this time, along with a few incisive observations and descriptions.
1. Sholay
Sholay is an epic action-drama which narrates the story of two crooks, Jai & Veeru that are hired by a retired cop, Thakur Baldev Singh, to capture the ruthless dacoit Gabbar Singh. Known for its epic dialogues and larger-than-life characters and storyline, the film is considered one of the greatest films of Indian cinema.
Actors:
Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Amjad Khan, Jaya Bhaduri, Sanjeev Kumar
Popular Songs:
- “Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge”
- “Mehbooba Mehbooba”
- “Holi Ke Din”
Date of Release: August 15, 1975
Collection: ₹35 crore (lifetime gross, approximate)
Budget: ₹3 crore
Sholay was not just a film, it turned into a movement. Its characters like Gabbar Singh, Basanti, Veeru, and dialogues like “Kitne Aadmi The?” etched itself permanently into Indian pop culture.
2. Deewar
“Deewar”, a strong tale of two brothers Vijay and Ravi where circumstances of early life turn them in different directions, directed by Yash Chopra. Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan) smuggles and Ravi (Shashi Kapoor) becomes a policeman. The movie is a reflection on class warfare, morality and family notions.
Actors:
Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Nirupa Roy, Parveen Babi
Popular Songs:
- “Kehdoon Tumhe”
- “Maine Tujhe Maanga Tujhe Paaya Hai”
Date of Release: January 24, 1975
Collection: ₹6 crore
Budget: ₹1.5 crore
It is regarded as one of the cornerstones of the modern Indian film as well as a seminal classic of the Indian New Wave.
3. Aandhi
Aandhi is a political drama in which we see the life of Aarti Devi, a powerful woman pursuing both her personal and professional lives. The story bears a strong resemblance with that of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film is also about finding that delicate balance between personal and political relationships.
Actors:
Sanjeev Kumar, Suchitra Sen
Popular Songs:
- “Tere Bina Zindagi Se Koi Shikwa”
- “Is Mod Se Jaate Hain”
Date of Release: February 13, 1975
Collection: ₹4 crore
Budget: ₹1 crore
Banned initially during the Emergency for its political undertones, Aandhi was later permitted to be on screens—clearly showing censorship’s complex forms at that time.
4. Chupke Chupke
A comedy of errors, Chupke Chupke chronicles a botany professor who masquerades as his driver and plays a prank on his brother-in-law. The film, directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, is remembered for its comedy and melodious music which proved popular.
Actors:
Dharmendra, Sharmila Tagore, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bhaduri
Popular Songs:
- “Ab Ke Sawan Mein Jee Dare”
- “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa”
Date of Release: April 11, 1975
Collection: ₹3 crore
Budget: ₹1 crore
Chupke Chupke, one of those timeless classics that still has the audience in splits with its charm, comedy and sense of timing, was a Diversion Era film with a difference.
5. Kabhie Kabhie
Kabhie Kabhie is a movie about the paths the heart takes in its journey of life and love. The movie artfully combines poetry and emotions, hence adored by the fans who love romantic dramas.
Actors:
Amitabh Bachchan, Rakhee Gulzar, Shashi Kapoor, Waheeda Rehman
Popular Songs:
- “Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein”
- “Tera Phoolon Jaisa Rang”
Date of Release: January 27, 1976
Collection: ₹4.5 crore
Budget: ₹2 crore
Realistic music( Khayyam), Kabhie Kabhie was a favourite with the audience and it continues to be a classic.
6. Jai Santoshi Maa
A devotional movie depicting the story of a devotee to Santoshi Maa, and her faith in the goddess. The Indian audience — especially in the countryside — loved it, and the movie was a huge hit.
Actors:
Kanan Kaushal, Bharat Bhushan
Popular Songs:
- “Main To Arti Utaroon”
- “Yahan Wahan Jahan Tahan”
Date of Release: August 15, 1975
Collection: ₹5 crore
Budget: ₹10 lakh
The phenomenal success of “Jai Santoshi Maa” underscored the continuing appeal of devotional cinema in India at a time riven by politics.
7. Amar Akbar Anthony
A masala entertainer with three brothers separated in childhood and brought up in different religious households. Comedy, drama, action, romance all seamlessly sewn together into one unforgettable ride.
Actors:
Amitabh Bachchan, Vinod Khanna, Rishi Kapoor, Neetu Singh
Popular Songs:
- “My Name is Anthony Gonsalves”
- “Parda Hai Parda”
- “Shirdi Wale Sai Baba”
Date of Release: May 27, 1977
Collection: ₹15 crore
Budget: ₹2 crore
Amar Akbar Anthony is still one of the most entertaining Bollywood movies and a joy to watch for its portrayal of the rich variety of Indian culture.
8. Chhoti Si Baat
A romantic comedy about a shy teenage boy who consults a “love guru” to win the heart of the girl he wants. Directed by Basu Chatterjee, the film is axood entertaining picture of middle-class life in 1970s Bombay.
Actors:
Amol Palekar, Vidya Sinha, Ashok Kumar
Popular Songs:
- “Jaaneman Jaaneman Tere Do Nayan”
- “Na Jaane Kyun”
Date of Release: June 26, 1976
Collection: ₹1.5 crore
Budget: ₹50 lakh
Chhoti Si Baat is a gem for its straightforward narrative, relatable characters and tongue-in-cheek humour.
