Growing up in the early 2000s, Indian films and romance were inseparable. Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, was particularly synonymous with romantic musicals. This came about especially after the release of Diwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ) in 1995, directed by Aditya Chopra and starring Shah Rukh Khan (Raj) and Kajol (Simran).
The film and actors became the face of the genre, while the story transcended India’s linguistic barriers. The film popularized the classic Indian romantic film trope, an idealistic hero and his ever-pervasive love for the heroine, paired with some killer songs and dance numbers.
I still remember watching DDLJ for the first time. The iconic scene of Raj holding out his hand to Simran and running towards him as the train slowly departs from the platform with the iconic theme playing in the background is still recreated today. There’s even a spot marked on Mt. Titlis in Switzerland, where the film’s shooting took place.
I would highly recommend watching the Netflix documentary Romantics directed by Smriti Mundhra. The documentary captures the history and legacy of the film and the people behind it. As Anupam Kher, one of the supporting actors of the film says, the history of Bollywood can be divided into before DDLJ and after.
Having discussed with quite a few Bollywood aficionados, here are some recommendations to add spice to your Valentine’s Day celebrations:
Diwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995):
As of November 2024, this movie is still being screened in Mumbai, India. Named by the British Film Institute as one of thousand greatest films ever made, DDLJ is a globe-trotting romantic drama of Raj and Simran and their quest to win over their families’ acceptance. Iconic songs, charming actors, stellar cinematography and a drama for the ages tie it all together.
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Another blockbuster romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol; for some, this film in particular may not have aged especially well, however, it is still iconic. Having read a letter from her dead mother, young Anjali sets out on a journey to reunite her father Rahul with his one true love who is also named Anjali. The film was directed by Karan Johar.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham (2001)
A romantic family drama starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, directed by Karan Johar yet again. The film follows the story of Rahul, who was disowned by his adoptive father because of his love for Anjali. Years later, Rahul’s brother embarks on a quest to reunite the broken family.
Kal Ho Na Ho (2003)
A love triangle directed by Nikhil Advani involving Aman played by Shah Rukh Khan, Naina played by Preity Zinta and Rohit played by Saif Ali Khan. There is a lot to be said about this movie, but in my opinion, this film is perfection.
Jab We Met (2007)
Two people at different points in their lives and, with different beliefs and personalities meet in a train on a random night. A modern-day classic directed by Imtiaz Ali and starring Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor. The film is a favourite of many, especially those in Generation Z (Gen Z).
Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na (2008)
A coming-of-age romantic drama directed by Abbas Tyrewala, the film follows Imran Khan (Jai) and Genelia D’Souza (Aditi) and how two friends find love with each other. Yet another modern-day classic that remains a fan-favourite. The film also features a soundtrack by Academy award-winning composer, AR. Rahman.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Yet another fan-favourite among Gen-Z, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani is a coming-of-age story following the story of Kabir and Naina, played by Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone. The story goes beyond romance and talks about friendship, passion and family relationships.
Honourable mentions and Personal favourites: Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994), Devdas (2002), Veer Zaara (2004), Om Shanti Om (2007), Love Aaj Kal (2009), Rock- star (2011), Barfi (2012), Raanjha- naa (2013) and Tamasha (2015).
Graphic by Bachir Miloudi
