Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India

In 1893, during the height of the British Empire in India, Captain Andrew Russell imposes high taxes on the villagers of Champaner due to a prolonged drought. This tax, known as 'lagaan', is unbearable for the villagers who are struggling to survive in severe conditions.

Desperate for help, the villagers approach Raja Puran Singh for assistance. Unfortunately, the Raja informs them that he is bound by British law and regrets that he cannot help them in their plight against the oppressive tax.

During their struggle, the villagers encounter a game of cricket for the first time. Bhuvan, the leader of the villagers, initially mocks the game, displaying his disdain for the British and their culture.

Captain Russell, taking a disliking to Bhuvan, offers a wager: if the villagers can defeat his cricket team, their taxes will be canceled for three years. However, if they lose, their taxes will triple. Bhuvan accepts the challenge without consulting the villagers.

Upon learning of the wager, the villagers rage against Bhuvan for accepting such a risky bet. Bhuvan argues the importance of standing against British oppression, gradually rallying support from the villagers to practice for the match.

Bhuvan starts to form a cricket team but struggles initially to find teammates. He is joined by a few willing villagers and is eventually aided by Russell's sister, Elizabeth, who helps them understand the game, while also developing feelings for Bhuvan.

As the team prepares, tension arises between Bhuvan, Gauri (who is in love with him), and Lakha, who also loves Gauri and seeks to undermine Bhuvan by acting as a spy for Russell. This results in personal conflicts amidst the team's preparation.

To complete his team, Bhuvan invites Kachra, an untouchable known for his bowling skills. Despite initial refusals based on prejudice, Bhuvan convinces the villagers to accept Kachra as a member of their team, showing unity in their fight against colonial rule.

The day of the match arrives, and Captain Russell's team begins by batting first. They score aggressively, leading Bhuvan's team to face a daunting challenge as the British officers dominate the game.

During the match, Lakha's initial betrayal affects the team's performance, as he drops crucial catches. However, after witnessing Elizabeth's concern, he seeks redemption by making a spectacular catch later in the game, aiming to restore his loyalty to the team.

With determination, Kachra is brought back to bowl and delivers an unexpected hat trick, leading to a miraculous collapse of the British batting lineup. His performance rejuvenates the villagers' spirit and confidence in fighting for their freedom.

As the match progresses, the villagers struggle with injuries and the pressure of the game. With limited players and the required runs dwindling, the situation becomes tense as they fight against the odds to secure a victory.

In a nail-biting final over, Kachra's single leads to an unexpected no ball that allows Bhuvan to return to bat. He swings with all his might and, through a twist of fate, secures a six, winning the match for his team and marking a moment of triumph over British rule.

With their victory, Bhuvan's team witnesses the disbandment of the British cantonment. Captain Russell is forced to pay the taxes of the province and is transferred, while Bhuvan's triumph leads to newfound hope for the villagers.

Following the match, the villagers celebrate their victory and Bhuvan's love for Gauri blossoms, culminating in their marriage. Meanwhile, Elizabeth, heartbroken but respectful of their love, returns to London, forever changed by her experiences in India.