Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than cozying up with some timeless Bollywood romantic movies? From epic love sagas to heartwarming tales of self-discovery, here’s a curated list of the best romantic Bollywood movies that will set the mood for Valentine’s celebration.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra, stands as a testament to timeless love. It follows Raj and Simran, played by Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, whose initial encounter during a European holiday doesn’t spark love at first sight. However, destiny takes a dramatic turn when Simran is summoned back to India for an arranged marriage.
Rockstar (2011)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
This Valentine’s Day, immerse yourself in the Sufian world of Rockstar, where Ranbir Kapoor’s Janardan Jakhar, aka Jordan/JJ, falls deeply in love with Nargis Fakhri’s Heer. Imtiaz Ali’s unique storytelling, coupled with an unforgettable soundtrack by AR Rahman, Mohit Chauhan, and Irshad Kamil, makes this tale of unrequited love a must-watch best romantic Bollywood movie.
Veer-Zaara (2004)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Veer-Zaara is an exquisite tale of love transcending borders. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta, the film narrates the love story between Veer, an Indian Air Force officer, and Zaara, the daughter of a prominent Pakistani politician. Moreover, Yash Chopra’s directorial is a timeless classic that explores the enduring power of love against the backdrop of political and social challenges.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Streaming on: Netflix
Ayan Mukerji’s Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani has propelled itself as one of the best romantic Bollywood movies for Gen-Z. After all, it tells the story of Kabir Thapar, played by Ranbir Kapoor, and Naina Talwar, played by Deepika Padukone. Additionally, it is a coming-of-age romantic drama that captures the essence of friendship, love, and self-discovery.
Jab We Met (2007)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
In Jab We Met, director Imtiaz Ali crafts a heartwarming tale of love and self-discovery. Aditya, a business tycoon played by Shahid Kapoor, impulsively boards a train and encounters Geet, a vivacious Punjabi girl played by Kareena Kapoor Khan. Moreover, this film is hailed as one of the best Bollywood romantic movies for its plot, music, and performances.
Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na (2008)
Streaming on: Netflix
Directed by Abbas Tyrewala, Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na revolves around the lives of best friends Jai and Aditi, played by Imran Khan and Genelia D’Souza. Resisting the idea of romance between them, the duo gradually realizes their true feeling for each other as they explore relationships with others.
Piku (2015)
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video
Last but not least, romance also comes in the form of self-love, and Shoojit Sircar’s Piku challenges conventional notions of love. The movie revolves around Piku, played by Deepika Padukone, who is single due to family commitments. Moreover, the heartwarming story explores the complexities of relationships and shows the uncommon places you can find love.
Thus, whether you prefer the iconic love story of DDLJ, the intense emotions of Rockstar, or the cross-border romance of Veer-Zara, there’s a perfect Bollywood movie to make Valentine’s Day special.