Kargil Vijay Diwas: 3 Bollywood War Films That Honour Our Heroes

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to pay tribute to the brave soldiers of India who secured victory during the Kargil War. While the real heroes defended the nation on treacherous peaks, Bollywood has honoured their courage and sacrifice through powerful war films that capture not only the action on the battlefield but also the emotional stories of soldiers and their families.

“Sandese aate hain, hamme tadpate hain, Jo chitthi aati hai woh poochhe jaati hai, Ke ghar kab aaoge, ke ghar kab aaoge Likho kab aaoge...” This iconic song from Border still resonates as a moving salute to the unwavering spirit of our jawans. As we remember the sacrifices made during the Kargil War, here are three Hindi films that take you straight to the line of fire.

L.O.C Kargil (2003)

This multi-starrer war epic remains one of Bollywood’s most detailed tributes to the Kargil War. Directed by J. P. Dutta, L.O.C Kargil brings together a stellar ensemble cast including Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Manoj Bajpayee.

What makes this four-hour-long film special is its storytelling, woven like diary entries of brave soldiers from various regiments. With breathtaking visuals of high-altitude Kashmir, gripping battle sequences, and raw portrayals of sacrifice, the film takes audiences on an emotional rollercoaster — from tears to pride in a single breath.

Lakshya (2004)

Who can forget “Main aisa kyu hoon”, the anthem of every directionless youth? But Lakshya is far more than just a coming-of-age tale. Directed by Farhan Akhtar and starring Hrithik Roshan as Karan Shergill, it tells the story of a young man who transforms from aimless to a determined army officer.

The climax, where Karan and his team conquer an enemy-held peak, is inspired by true events from the Kargil conflict. Stunning cinematography, soul-stirring music, and a focus on discipline and bravery make Lakshya one of Bollywood’s most impactful war dramas.

Shershaah (2021)

“Yeh dil maange more!” — Captain Vikram Batra’s famous war cry echoes in every Indian’s heart. Shershaah takes us beyond the slogan, offering a heartfelt look into the life of this real-life hero.


Sidharth Malhotra’s powerful performance as Batra, combined with intense battle scenes and a tender love story, brings alive the courage and humanity of the Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film beautifully balances the grit of combat with the softer moments that define a soldier’s life.

As we honour our brave soldiers on Kargil Vijay Diwas, these films do more than just retell history — they help new generations feel the sacrifice, courage and pride that define India’s military legacy.