Collateral Lives: Political Borders, Feminist Resistance, And The Cost Of Identity In Sarbjit

The Partition of India in 1947 left behind not just physical borders but also psychological scars that continue to haunt individuals and families even decades later. Omung Kumar’s Sarbjit (2016) serves as a powerful cinematic testament to the lingering consequences of these borders, exploring themes of identity, injustice, and the relentless suffering caused by geopolitical divisions. Set against the backdrop of strained Indo-Pak relations, the film captures the story of Dalbir Kaur, whose relentless fight to free her brother from wrongful imprisonment exemplifies the intersection of personal trauma and systemic failure. Through her struggle, Sarbjit reflects the enduring human cost of Partition, where borders become enduring sites of pain, displacement, and fractured identities. This paper delves into the layered narrative of the film, focusing on how the politics of borders perpetuate cycles of identity crises and injustice. By examining Dalbir’s journey, the study highlights the endless trials of individuals ensnared by political hostilities and explores how their lives are reduced to collateral damage in the larger narrative of statecraft. The film not only critiques the dehumanizing aspects of systemic oppression but also underscores the transformative power of female solidarity as Dalbir allies with her family and others to confront overwhelming odds. Her resilience redefines traditional gender roles, presenting a nuanced portrayal of agency and resistance in the face of adversity. Employing postcolonial feminist and trauma theories, this research positions Sarbjit as a key narrative within Partition literature that sheds light on the ongoing repercussions of Partition. It examines the emotional and systemic struggles faced by Dalbir and her family, analyzing how their journey mirrors the collective trauma of a nation divided by borders. By interrogating themes of suffering, resilience, and the shared experiences of women in oppressive systems, this paper illuminates how Sarbjit transforms personal tragedy into a broader critique of political injustice and the unending legacy of Partition, situating it as a vital contribution to the discourse on displacement and identity.