Top 6 propaganda films in India: From Kerala Story’s scares to Dhurandhar’s ₹300+ cr smash. Casts, earnings, controversies, and tips to spot agenda-driven movies latest updates.
India’s cinema scene exploded with bold, opinion-dividing stories this year. Some movies didn’t just entertain they pushed strong views on history, politics, and society. Critics quickly labeled these six as “propaganda” for twisting facts to fit certain agendas. We look at The Kerala Story, The Kashmir Files, Emergency, The Taj Story, The Vaccine War, and the blockbuster Dhurandhar. Discover their stars, directors, box office numbers and the controversies that made them infamous.These films show how movies can shape public opinion and divide it too.
1. The Kerala Story (2023): Tales of Deception and Radicalization
This gripping drama follows young women from Kerala tricked into conversion and terrorism links.
- It mixes real claims with intense drama to highlight hidden dangers.
- Adah Sharma stars powerfully, backed by Yogita Bihani and others. Sudipto Sen directs; Vipul Amrutlal Shah produces.
- Budget: ₹15-20 crore. Earnings: Over ₹303 crore worldwide a huge hit despite state bans.
2. The Kashmir Files (2022): Pain of Exile and Forgotten Tragedy
A student uncovers the harsh truth behind Kashmiri Pandits’ exodus in the 1990s.
- Raw emotions and real footage demand attention to past wounds.
- Anupam Kher leads with Mithun Chakraborty and Pallavi Joshi. Vivek Agnihotri directs.
- Budget: ₹15-25 crore. Earnings: ₹340 crore globally, plus awards and tax-free status.
3. Emergency (2025): Indira Gandhi’s Dark Era of Power
Kangana Ranaut plays Indira Gandhi during the 1975-1977 Emergency.
- It explores ambition, opposition crackdowns, and personal costs.
- Ranaut stars and directs, with Anupam Kher and Shreyas Talpade.
- Budget: Around ₹60 crore. Earnings: About ₹18-22 crore a disappointing flop.
4. The Taj Story (2025): Secrets Beneath the Iconic Monument
Paresh Rawal’s guide challenges the Taj Mahal’s official history in court.
- Witty debates question Mughal origins with fringe theories.
- Rawal stars with Zakir Hussain and Amruta Khanvilkar. Tushar Amrish Goel directs.
- Low budget. Earnings: Around ₹20-25 crore net modest success amid huge backlash.
5. The Vaccine War (2023): India’s COVID Heroes Against the World
Scientists race to create Covaxin amid doubts and politics.
- It praises self-reliance and fights “foreign plots.”
- Nana Patekar and Pallavi Joshi star. Vivek Agnihotri directs.
- Budget: ₹10 crore. Earnings: Under ₹10 crore a commercial miss.
6. Dhurandhar (2025): Spy Thrills and National Vengeance
Ranveer Singh infiltrates gangs post-26/11 attacks.
- High-action with critiques of past governments and patriotic fire.
- Singh leads with Akshaye Khanna, R. Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt. Aditya Dhar directs.
- Released December 5, 2025. Earnings: Over ₹300 crore India net in 10 days 2025’s biggest hit.
Why These Films Get Called Propaganda: The Common Thread
These movies face criticism for promoting one-sided views, often tied to Hindutva or nationalism:
- Kerala Story and Kashmir Files accused of fear-mongering against Muslims.
- Emergency seen as attacking Congress legacy.
- Taj Story pushes debunked Hindu temple claims, sparking communal outrage.
- Vaccine War glorifies government efforts while downplaying issues.
- Dhurandhar slammed for anti-Pakistan bias and blaming old regimes even banned in Gulf countries.
Many get political support like screenings or tax breaks, turning entertainment into influence tools.
How to Spot If a Movie Is Propaganda: Simple Tips for Viewers
Not all bold films are propaganda, but watch for these signs:
- One clear agenda: Vilifies groups or parties without balance.
- Twisted facts: Exaggerates or invents events always fact-check.
- Emotional tricks: Heavy music, stereotypes, and calls to anger or pride.
- Backing clues: Politician praise or special perks.
- Divided reactions: Loved by one side, hated by another.
Enjoy the drama, but think critically. Good cinema sparks questions, not just emotions.What’s your view are these brave truths or biased spins? Comment below!
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FAQ: Top 6 Propaganda Movies in India
Q: What makes a film “propaganda” in Indian cinema?
A: It pushes a political or religious agenda by distorting facts and emotions, often to influence opinions.
Q: Why did The Taj Story face so much backlash?
A: Posters suggested Hindu origins for the Taj Mahal, reviving debunked theories and fears of communal division.
Q: How did Dhurandhar become 2025’s biggest hit despite controversy?
A: Action, stars like Ranveer Singh, and patriotic themes drove massive crowds over ₹300 crore quickly.
Q: Did any of these films flop at the box office?
A: Yes, Emergency and The Vaccine War underperformed badly despite hype.
Q: Is The Kashmir Files based on real events?
A: It draws from Kashmiri Pandit stories but critics say it exaggerates for impact.
Q: Can I still watch these for entertainment?
A: Sure, separate story from message and cross-check facts for a balanced view.