6 Bollywood Romance Movies That Set My Bar for Dating Way Too High

As one hopeless romantic to another, I know that we're always on a hunt for the next romance movie that will sweep us off our feet. We need that rush and excitement in order to really feel for the characters and their love story.

Growing up obsessed with Bollywood movies, I can see now that it really shaped my expectations for love stories both in real-life and when it comes to cinema. These movies have everything you can wish for.

And yes, I know real life isn't at all like the movies. But there's something special about those perfectly choreographed love stories that just makes my heart skip a beat every single time. So get cozy and let me walk you through these 6 epic Bollywood romance movies that showed me what true love really is.

Veer-Zaara (2004): Epic Love Knows No Boundaries

If there's one movie that makes me believe in love's ability to overcome any borders, time and politics, it's Veer-Zaara.

The story follows Veer, an Indian pilot who falls in love with Zaara, a Pakistani woman he rescues. Their love story spans 22 years, with Veer spending two decades in a Pakistani prison keeping his silence to protect their love. If that's not dedication, I don't know what is.

Veer-Zaara portrays love as something worth sacrificing everything for. The cinematography is breathtaking and after watching this, your standards will be through the roof (as they should be).

You can watch Veer-Zaara on Prime Video or Apple TV+.

Socha Na Tha (2005): Interesting Twist to the Arranged Marriage Story

Socha Na Tha is that realization that the right person was there all along.

The movie tells a story of Aditi and Viren, two people who meet through an arranged marriage setup but initially reject each other. Yet fate has some other plans in store and these two start to slowly develop feelings for one another. But of course, they are both in committed relationships already.

I consider it one of the most underrated Bollywood gems out there and if you haven't seen it, you're in for a treat. Watch Socha Na Tha now on Prime Video.

Mohabbatein (2000): Love Knows No Fear

If you think your parents were strict about dating, wait till you meet the principal of Gurukul.

Mohabbatein is a story that will make you believe in the life-changing power of love. The movie follows Raj, a music teacher who joins a strict all-boys school where love is practically forbidden. But Raj is here to help his students find the courage to follow their hearts, all while carrying his own tragic love story.

This is a true classic and pure poetry. After watching this, you might find yourself looking for someone who'd play violin for you. You can find Mohabbatein on Prime Video and Apple TV+.

Band Baaja Baaraat (2010): Business Partners to Lovers

This is probably one of the most flirty and fun movies on the list. Who knew wedding planning for other people could be this romantic?

The story follows Bittoo and Shruti, two young people who start a wedding planning business together. They have one important rule: never mix emotions with business. So yeah, these two were definitely made for each other.

And I need to take a moment to talk about Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma. They are the ones who made the movie so fun to watch. They are both extremely charismatic and their chemistry is truly igniting.

Watch Band Baaja Baaraat on Prime Video or Apple TV+. The movie is a delicious slow burn of falling for a person with a complete denial and jealousy.

Saathiya (2002): Love After Marriage

Finally, a movie that shows what happens after the typical Bollywood ending! Saathiya is what you get when you take the “happily ever after” and add a dose of reality to it.

This refreshingly realistic romance follows a young couple who elope thinking love is all they need. These two will soon have to discover that maintaining a relationship takes more than just passionate love.

I love that Saathiya doesn't shy away from showing the not-so-perfect side of love. The fights, the misunderstandings, the make-ups. It's all there and it's totally relatable. Saathiya is waiting for you on Prime Video and Apple TV+.

Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017): Small Town, Big Hearts

Bareilly Ki Barfi is this perfect rom-com you've been looking for.

Meet Bitti, a free-spirited girl who breaks every small-town stereotype. When she stumbles upon a book that feels like it's written about her life, she's determined to find the author. I won't spoil it too much, but it has one of the most adorable love triangles ever brought to screen.

The movie is relatable and down-to-earth while still giving you all those butterfly-inducing moments. Bitti is unapologetically herself and that's what makes this story even more special.

You can catch Bareilly Ki Barfi on Netflix right now.