Sarabha is a Punjabi-language historical biographical film directed by Kavi Raz that examines the life of Indian revolutionary Kartar Singh Sarabha,[1] who was executed by the British at age 19 in Lahore in 1915. The film presents his journey from a student in the United States to becoming involved in the movement and returning to India as a martyr.[2] The film was originally titled as "Sarabha Cry for freedom" [3]
The film was shot in various locations including Ganganagar (India), Canada and the United States. Sarabha was the first Punjabi film (with English subtitles) to open in 55 theatres across the U.S. alone. In Canada, it also screened in major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Edmonton.[4]
Cast & Crew
Director and screenwriter: Kavi Raz (who also portrays the Gadar-movement leader Sohan Singh Bhakna)[5] Lead actor: Japtej (plays Kartar Singh Sarabha)[6]
Historical Significance
Kartar Singh Sarabha is regarded as one of the youngest and most influential figures of the Indian freedom struggle; his execution by the British and his role in the Gadar movement (a network of expatriate Indians in North America fighting for India’s independence) forms the dramatic core of the film. The director has described the film as “not your typical Punjabi film” but rather “a historical document on the role of Gadar heroes in India’s Independence.”[7]
Reception & Impact
The film’s release in North America[8] was marked by a strong response,[9][10] particularly among the Punjabi diaspora, with advanced bookings and community-driven promotion (e.g., posters and flyers distributed in places such as Surrey, Canada and Fresno, U.S.). The director expressed a hope that the film might be included in school curricula in Punjab, India, to inspire future generations.[11]
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