Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam on OTT: Reasons to watch this heartfelt tribute to school days featuring Sachin Khedekar and Prajakta Koli

Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam hits ZEE5 on Feb 27. The hit drama follows a principal and alumni fighting to save their Marathi school in Alibaug. A nostalgic, must-watch 2026 regional film.

Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam poster

The Marathi film industry has launched 2026 with great success, amidst a period where regional cinema is firmly establishing itself as India's cornerstone for meaningful storytelling. The social drama Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam directed by Hemant Dhome, is about to launch on OTT following a successful run in theatres that earned over ₹30 crore.

When and where can viewers stream Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam?

Coinciding with the release of Marathi Bhasha Gaurav Din, the film will be available to stream on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium) starting on February 27, 2026. Whether you missed it in theatres or are simply looking for a nostalgic journey, this film is a must-watch this weekend.

Set in the picturesque coastal town of Alibaug, the story revolves around the 90-year-old Krantijyoti Vidyalay. A fancy "international" English-medium institute is about to demolish the Shirke family's beloved school. Sachin Khedekar plays the principal, Dinkar Shirke, who is determined not to let his heritage fall by the wayside. Even though they're all grown up and leading full, eclectic lives, he calls upon seven of his dearest former students to get back to their roots and salvage the school that had such an impact on their lives.

ALSO READ: Krantijyoti Vidyalay on OTT: Here's how much Prajakta Koli's Marathi social drama earned at box office

Which social issue does Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam primarily address?

The film primarily deals with a problem that many people in Maharashtra face: the gradual disappearance of regional language schools. It holds up the "status symbol," which is English-medium education, in a critical light without criticising it.

The film deftly examines the "English vs. Marathi" divide, doing so without resorting to outright hostility. It challenges the idea that learning one's mother tongue in elementary school is a drawback, given that doing so offers the best emotional and cognitive grounding.

What distinguishes the conflict in this "Save the School" narrative?

The plot of this film is driven by legal fights, political pressure, and community mobilisation rather than the usual sports or dancing competitions seen in "Save the School."

Sachin Khedekar is unmatched in his ability to captivate an audience with a glum expression. In part evoking his legendary act in Me Shivajiraje Bhosale Boltoy Khedekar offers an elegant yet gritty performance as Principal Shirke. Be on the lookout for the last act, which has the climax monologue. In an impassioned but not "preachy" address, Khedekar grounds the conversation in reason rather than emotion alone. He plays the role of the anchor. His charisma shines through in every scene, whether he's scolding a former student or confronting the crooked developer Jagtap (Anant Jog).

How has Prajakta Koli transitioned into Marathi cinema?

Prajakta Koli, better known throughout the world as "MostlySane," breaks into the film industry in her native language with this flick. She adds a touch of contemporary relatability to the characters, such as Anjali Rane, a returning student from overseas. Critics have praised Koli for her seamless transition from a digital influencer to a relatable Marathi actor. She crafts a light-hearted romance plotline with Siddharth Chandekar to counterbalance the film's serious social topics.

Hemant Dhome is an expert director when it comes to ensemble casting (Jhimma Fussclass Dabhade). His talent lies in creating an ensemble that resembles a real family—or, in this instance, a genuine bunch of classmates.

Which nostalgic elements define the school experience in Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam?

The film features all the hallmarks of a "90s school kid" experience, such as dusty chalkboards, orange sweets, and that particular kind of terror associated with the principal's office. The most charming and funny parts of the film are these "adults becoming children again" moments.

Amey Wagh, who plays the role of the village lad Baban, is the showstopper. He offers astute, humorous, and at times tragic comments on the changing times through his interactions with his kid, who paradoxically goes to an English-medium school, and his distinctive Alibaug dialect.

How does the musical score contribute to Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam's atmosphere?

Not content to be mere ambience, the musical combo Harsh-Vijay becomes an integral part of the piece. The music makes the film feel more theatrical and "epic" than your average drama.

Swargat Akashganga is a poignant, introspective song that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced a sense of being away from home. Haakamari is a stirring, folk-influenced hymn that propels the "battle cry" to rescue the school during the film's most dramatic scenes.

How does the cinematography capture the essence of Alibaug?

The cinematography in Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam evokes a sense of nostalgia for the Konkan coast as it depicts Alibaug's beaches, verdant vegetation, and the school's ageing but stunning architecture.

However, the film is far from flawless; the first half drags at times, and some subplots feel slightly repetitive. Despite its shortcomings, its genuineness and purpose make up for them. This "clean" family film serves as an homage to yesteryear while also offering a thought-provoking glimpse into Maharashtra's educational landscape of the future.

Why is Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam a fitting tribute for the OTT audience?

Arriving on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium) on Friday, Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is a fitting tribute to the strength of community. The need to remember one's roots is a theme that resonates with everyone, regardless of whether they attended a school that taught Marathi or not.

Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam FAQs:

Q: Where can I watch Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam on OTT?

A: The Marathi blockbuster Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam will be available for streaming exclusively on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium). The film is set to have its digital world premiere on February 27, 2026, coinciding with Marathi Bhasha Gaurav Divas.

Q: Is Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam a hit or flop?

A: Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam is a certified Super Hit. Produced on a modest budget of approximately ₹4–6 crore, it earned over ₹30.21 crore at the box office, making it the first major Marathi success story of 2026.

Q: Which movie marks Prajakta Koli’s Marathi debut?

A: Content creator and actor Prajakta Koli (MostlySane) makes her Marathi cinema debut with Krantijyoti Vidyalay Marathi Madhyam. She plays the role of Anjali Rane, a former student who returns from abroad to help save her childhood school.

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