Cover All-time classic Hindi movies to watch over the festive period (Photo: Instagram / redchilliesent)
All-time classic Hindi movies to watch over the festive period (Photo: Instagram / redchilliesent)
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From hilarious comedies to classic romances, here are all the classic Hindi films you should be checking out this Diwali
As the Hindu Festival of Lights approaches (October 29 to 31), families are gearing up to celebrate Deepavali with joy, togetherness, and cherished traditions. One of the most beloved ways to get into the festive spirit is through the magic of cinema. From stories filled with love to films that spotlight important life lessons, various Hindi films capture the essence of Deepavali. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming drama or a nostalgic classic, there’s something for everyone.
To celebrate the festive season, we share some of the best Hindi films to watch this Deepavali, ensuring your celebrations are filled with cinematic delight and unforgettable moments with loved ones.
In case you missed it: Why Diwali, the festival of lights, begins with an investment in gold
1. Taare Zameen Par
This poignant tale follows Ishaan Awasthi, an eight-year-old boy who struggles with dyslexia. He is misunderstood by his parents and teachers due to his vibrant imagination and is sent to a boarding school in hopes of being disciplined. Throughout his time in the boarding school, we see his talents recognised by compassionate art teacher Ram Shankar Nikumbh who employs creative teaching methods to help him flourish academically and emotionally.
2. Call Me Bae
This contemporary romantic comedy follows the escapades of Bae, a young woman navigating the complexities of love, friendship and self-discovery in modern India. We watch as Bae is entangled in a whirlwind romance with a charming yet unpredictable suitor. The film is infused with humour and relatable scenarios that resonate with us, showcasing the challenges of balancing personal desires with social expectations.
3. We Are Family
We Are Family is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics through the lens of blended relationships. We follow two women who must navigate their complex emotions when they find themselves co-parenting their children after an unexpected turn of events. With powerful performances from its cast, We Are Family serves as a reminder that family is defined not just by blood but by the connections we nurture.
4. Diwale
Above Dilwale Trailer | Kajol, Shah Rukh Khan, Varun Dhawan, Kriti Sanon | A Rohit Shetty Film
Starring famed actor Shah Rukh Khan, Diwale is probably one of the most famous Hindi films that have come out as of late. In this action-comedy, a young couple falls in love with each other while unaware of the violent past that drew their respective families apart. The film was released in 2015 and quickly became the sixth highest-grossing Indian film overseas so it is certainly one you need to catch over the Deepavali festivities.
5. Dear Zindagi
Above Dear Zindagi Take 1: Life Is A Game | Teaser | Alia Bhatt, Shah Rukh Khan
If you are looking for a film that will cater to the whole family, you have to check out Dear Zindagi which is a 2016 Hindi coming of age film that was written and directed by Gauri Shinde. The film stars the talented Alia Bhatt and tells the story of Kaira, a young girl who aspires to be a cinematographer who directs her own films. However, life takes a turn when Kaira breaks up with her childhood sweetheart, Sid, and she gets kicked out of her apartment. Miserable, Kiara one day bumps into a stranger called Jug who helps her gain a new perspective on life. This tear-jerker is certainly one you should not miss.
6. 3 Idiots
Above 3 Idiots
It’s been a long week and we won’t blame you if all you want to do this public holiday is to kick back with a hilarious and down-right enjoyable film. If this sounds like what you are looking for, check out 3 Idiots which is a 2009 Hindi coming of age comedy that was written and directed by Rajkumar Hirani and co-written by Abhijat Joshi.
The story is told through parallel dramas and follows three best friends through their years in an engineering college. The film focuses on the social pressures of an Indian education system and is both heartbreaking and extremely comedic.
7. Dangal
Above Dangal | Official Trailer | Aamir Khan
In this 2016 biographical sports drama, an amateur wrestler, Mahavir, trains his daughters to become India’s first world-class female wrestlers. His methods seem harsh and despite backlash from his neighbours, Mahavir continues to push his daughters. However, as his daughters grow up and begin making more friends, they begin to disregard his discipline and move away from their father.
This is a fantastic film for the entire family and promises an emotional journey throughout the entire movie.
8. Om Shanti Om
Above Om Shanti Om | Trailer | Now in HD | Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone | A film by Farah Khan
In this film, a struggling movie extra, Om, has dreams of being a superstar who is worthy of Shantipriya, a woman he adores. One day, a chance encounter brings the two together. However, Shantipriya is harbouring a secret that is set to threaten their bond and lives. Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone star in this emotional rollercoaster of a film from 2007 and is one that every Bollywood fan should relive.
Amanda Goh was the former senior writer for Tatler Singapore.
