Ashutosh Gowariker’s Swades, released in December 2004, has completed 20 years, solidifying its place as one of Shah Rukh Khan’s most revered performances. While the film initially struggled at the box office, it has since gained cult status among cinephiles, praised for its profound storytelling and social commentary.
Swades marked the first collaboration between director Ashutosh Gowariker and Shah Rukh Khan. Following Gowariker’s international success with Lagaan, expectations were high for this ambitious project. The film also introduced Gayatri Joshi in her first and only Bollywood role.
The story of NASA scientist Mohan Bhargava, who returns to his roots in rural India to bring change, resonated deeply with audiences over time. Themes of rural empowerment, cultural identity, and the spirit of giving back struck a chord, making Swades more relevant with each passing year.
In celebration of the film’s anniversary, fans have been revisiting a rare audition video featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Gayatri Joshi, and Kishori Ballal, who played the beloved Kaveri Amma.
The audition, reportedly conducted in June 2003, showcased the trio rehearsing one of the film’s pivotal scenes. The raw footage offers a glimpse into the early chemistry between the actors, which translated beautifully on screen. Kishori Ballal’s warm portrayal of Kaveri Amma became one of the emotional anchors of the film.
Producer Ronnie Screwvala has hinted at the possibility of re-releasing Swades for a new generation of viewers.
“I keep telling everyone that it was a film ahead of its time. Therefore, it needs its second time around. We started our foundation, and after the film, we renamed it Swades Foundation. Shah Rukh Khan is a NASA scientist, and he comes back to rural India and wants to light the bulb, quite literally. Today, younger generations connect to that,” Screwvala said in an interview.
With its themes of patriotism and social responsibility, the film remains as relevant today as it was two decades ago.
