Vasudev Balwant Phadke

From Screen

Vasudev Balwant Phadke is a Marathi film that recalls the life and efforts of a Maratha freedom fighter, which stood against the British regime. At a time when Indians had accepted British as their true masters, Vasudevrao, as he was more popularly known, chose to ridicule the oppression and autocracy. Vasudevrao created his own army and fought against the East India Company’s rule.

The film focuses deeply on Vasudevrao’s personality and his influence on others around him. The film also recalls Vasudevrao’s vision for a free India and his contributions to Maharashtra’s social upliftment. Vasudev Balwant Phadke attempts to relive the life of a freedom fighter and create awareness about him.

ProducerRamesh Deo
“Some years back I was addressing a guest lecture for BA students in Pune and out of the blue, I popped them a question. I asked them if they knew who Vasudev Balwant Phadke was. A few students raised their hands and when I asked them to speak about him, I was shocked. Some were of the opinion that he was the grandfather of some producer and others identified him as a businessman, social worker and other such professions.

It was a surprise that we Marathi folk had forgotten Vasudev Balwant Phadke, a man who stood against the British empire when the Indian society identified them as a divine blessing. Vasudev Balwant Phadke, the film speaks about how he opposed the British regime and made people aware that their oppressive reign was not a gift of God.

I have made films on historical subjects before so I knew what had to be done with Vasudev Balwant Phadke. Where an average Marathi film on historical figures is made on a meagre budget of 50 lacs, we have gone all the way with our film. I wanted this film to be as big and lavish as possible, and our added efforts have made it as wonderful as a timeless novel. I hope people watch this film and relive true Indian and Maratha glory.”