If I Wanted to Get Someone Into Bollywood, These Are 5 Movies I’d Recommend

The world of Bollywood is mesmerizing, with never-ending romance, high-stakes drama, heartbreaking family revelations, and heartfelt friendships. It seems like there’s no genre Bollywood doesn't own. But, of course, it's the captivating stories with plot twists galore that Bollywood is famous for.

I have been a huge Bollywood fan for many years, practically growing up on the songs of '90s melodramas. But I understand that it’s not easy to turn someone into a fan. That's why I picked these five movies as the ultimate "Bollywood Fan 101" guide to help you become a fan.

1. ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’ (1995)

No Bollywood initiation is complete without Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. This romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol is one of the most iconic love stories in Indian cinema.

Set across Europe and India, the film captures the essence of young love, family values, and the East-meets-West cultural dynamic. Everything about the movie is perfect, but the music is what makes your heart melt. DDLJ is the quintessential Bollywood romance and the kind of film that makes you laugh, cry, and fall in love all over again.

2. ‘Lagaan’ (2001)

Second comes the movie for those who think Bollywood is all about romance and song-and-dance routines. Lagaan is really a game-changer. This period sports drama, starring Aamir Khan, blends history, politics, and… cricket (of course) into a gripping underdog tale.

Set during the British colonial era, a group of villagers challenge British officers to a cricket match to avoid paying oppressive taxes. The show blends patriotic spirit with powerful personal story, and it’s exactly what makes it a standout. Lagaan was even nominated for an Academy Award, so it’s definitely a must-watch for anyone who loves epic stories.

3. ‘3 Idiots’ (2009)

Starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, 3 Idiots tells the story of three engineering students navigating India’s rigid education system. Through the lens of their friendship and the mystery surrounding their charismatic friend, Rancho, the film challenges traditional notions of success and learning.

“It connects well with the youth. It has all typical Bollywood elements like love, songs, dances, etc. And it's very emotional too, which helps viewers to connect with the story and the characters. It tells a story about something that we can all relate to,” Redditor NavdeepNSG said.

4. ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ (1998)

If Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge didn't make you fall in love with SRK immediately, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai will undoubtedly do the trick. First, though, you’ll hate him because that’s how powerful this lighthearted movie is. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai is a film about second chances.

Shah Rukh Khan plays Rahul, a college best friend of Kajol’s Anjali. When Rahul falls for the glamorous Tina, Anjali’s hidden feelings for him force her to leave the city. Years later, Tina’s daughter, guided by letters from her late mother, sets out to reunite Rahul with Anjali. And succeeds. It's Bollywood at its nostalgic, heart-tugging best and captures the idea that love sometimes begins with friendship.

5. ‘Queen’ (2013)

A great choice for all young adults who feel lost, Queen is the story of Rani, a young woman who decides to go on her honeymoon alone after her fiancé calls off their wedding. What follows is a journey of self-empowerment and the inevitable personal growth.

This is actually one of those rare Bollywood cases that breaks away from traditional tropes and showcases a female protagonist coming into her own without a romantic savior.