Teachers’ Day is an occasion to recognise the contribution of educators who inspire and guide students. Bollywood has explored the teacher-student bon…
1. Super 30 (2019) | JioHotstar | Super 30 celebrates the transformative power of education and is inspired by the journey of mathematician and educator Anand Kumar. Directed by Vikas Bahl, the film follows a teacher who helps underprivileged students prepare for one of India’s toughest entrance examinations. It highlights Anand Kumar’s struggles and his efforts to provide aspiring IIT students with access to quality education. (Image: JioHotstar)
2. Hichki (2018) | Netflix | Hichki follows Naina Mathur, a woman with Tourette syndrome who dreams of becoming a teacher. After finally getting an opportunity to teach a group of underprivileged students, she turns the challenges she faces into strengths. Directed by Siddharth P Malhotra, the film stars Rani Mukerji, Neeraj Kabi and Shivkumar Subramaniam, among others in key roles. (Image: Netflix)
3. Stanley Ka Dabba (2011) | Prime Video | Amole Gupte’s Stanley Ka Dabba captures childhood innocence while exploring friendship, school life and the relationship between students and teachers. The film highlights how compassion and understanding can make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Its simple and emotional narrative shows the importance of choosing kindness over authority. (Image: Prime Video)
4. Taare Zameen Par (2007) | Netflix | Taare Zameen Par tells the story of Ishaan Awasthi, a child who struggles with dyslexia and finds it difficult to fit into conventional academic expectations. His life changes when art teacher Ram Shankar Nikumbh recognises his abilities and helps him understand his strengths. The film delivers a powerful message that every child is unique in their own way. (Image: Netflix)
5. Black (2005) | Netflix | Black tells the story of Michelle McNally, a deaf-blind young woman whose life changes after she meets her unconventional teacher, Debraj Sahai. The film explores the role of patience, persistence and mentorship in helping a person discover their potential. Inspired by the story of Helen Keller and her teacher Anne Sullivan, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film presents a moving portrayal of the bond between a teacher and student.
6. Paathshaala (2010) | YouTube | Set in a modern school environment, the Milind Ukey directorial raises questions about education, academic pressure and the purpose of learning. Shahid Kapoor plays an English teacher who joins a school and discovers that its management is more focused on financial gains than students’ well-being. He challenges the system and speaks up for the interests of the students.
7. Chalk N Duster (2016) | YouTube | Chalk N Duster is a tribute to the teaching profession and follows two dedicated schoolteachers, Vidya and Jyoti, played by Shabana Azmi and Juhi Chawla. Directed by Jayant Gilatar, the social drama film explores the challenges faced by teachers as they stand up against an unjust education system.