Jun. 15, 2001
Genre: Bollywood;Drama;Music
Description: In 1893, the villagers of Champaner eagerly await their Raja outside the British cantonment grounds, hoping to request a tax exemption (lagaan). However, the Raja is occupied watching a British cricket match. A young farmer named Bhuvan mocks the game, which leads to laughter among the villagers. His remarks are overheard by Captain Andrew Russell, a British officer who feels insulted. In retaliation, Russell challenges Bhuvan to a cricket match, promising to cancel their taxes if the villagers win. Despite skepticism, Bhuvan accepts the challenge.
With initial reluctance from the village, Bhuvan manages to gather a small group of supporters. They struggle to understand the game until Elizabeth, Captain Russell’s younger sister, offers to teach them cricket to ensure a fair match. Bhuvan welcomes her help, and the team begins practicing outside the village. As word spreads, more villagers join Bhuvan’s team, inspired by their determination.
Captain Russell discovers Elizabeth’s involvement and becomes enraged, but she refuses to stop assisting the villagers. Unbeknownst to him, Elizabeth is secretly developing feelings for Bhuvan. Meanwhile, Russell is under pressure from his superiors to ensure the taxes are paid, even if it comes from his own pocket if he loses the match. Bhuvan faces his own challenge in finding an eleventh player for the team. During practice, he notices Kachra, a physically challenged outcast, who demonstrates exceptional spin bowling skills. Despite resistance from the villagers due to Kachra’s social status, Bhuvan convinces them to include him in the team.
On the day of the match, the British team scores heavily, with Captain Russell hitting a century. However, Kachra’s spin bowling eventually dismisses the British team. When Bhuvan’s team begins batting, they lose quick wickets, putting them at a disadvantage. The film, *Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India*, captures this gripping story of courage, unity, and resilience against colonial oppression.