From Laughter to Love: Bollywood Movies Perfect for Family Nights

What a perfect time to reach out for all those farsaan and mithai boxes from Diwali lying on your table! Sit back, enjoy the cool breeze, and start a movie that was a blockbuster hit in the late 1990s or early 2000s. These classic family dramas might even earn you a few brownie points for being the “well-behaved one” in the family. Sure, they may be a bit overdramatic, but that’s just what will have you and your loved ones laughing until your stomachs hurt, and that could turn into a night to remember for everyone. Here’s a list of the best Bollywood movies to tune into for a fun-filled night with the family!

1. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

Years after his father disowns his adopted brother for marrying a woman of a lower social standing, a young man sets out on a mission to reunite with his fractured family. While the film may be a bit too long and occasionally over the top, Kajol and Kareena Kapoor’s performances will keep you glued to the screen. With catchy music, dreamy love stories, and delightfully unrealistic moments, this is the perfect movie to enjoy over the long weekend. Some viewers see the film’s “overacting” as part of its grand and entertaining spectacle, while others find it excessive, especially when combined with its melodramatic storyline

Genre: Family Drama, Musical

OTT Platform: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

2. Baghban

An elderly couple longs for the care and attention of their children in their old age. However, their children view them as a burden, forcing the couple to struggle to reclaim their sense of dignity, both in their own eyes and in the eyes of others.

The film’s strengths lie in the powerful performances by Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, and a memorable soundtrack. While the portrayal of family dynamics may feel unrealistic at times and the plot somewhat guilt-inducing, the story itself is fresh, emotionally resonant, and offers a refreshing take on family relationships, even if a bit overdone.

Genre: Romance/Drama

OTT Platform: JioHotstar, Amazon Prime Video

3. Hum Saath Saath Hain

This 1999 drama centres on the division of a once-happy family. A misguided matriarch schemes to cut off her stepson and his wife from the family fortune, triggering a rift within the previously close-knit clan. Before the conflict unfolds, the film paints a joyful picture of family life, filled with warmth, laughter, and the beautiful bond between the siblings.

The story thoughtfully highlights the importance of togetherness, love, and care in the family. The writer also offers a subtle cautionary note about the dangers of being swayed by magnetic or manipulative personalities.

Genre: Melodrama

OTT Platform: Zee 5, Amazon Prime Video

4. Swades

An Americanized NASA scientist returns to his native India on a business trip and begins searching for the nanny who helped raise him. The movie brings together a variety of elements: humour, realism, a beautiful blend of old and new values, some good old-fashioned romance, and a touch of idealism. Though it could have benefited from slightly tighter editing, making it a tad shorter, it remains an engaging and heartfelt cinematic experience.

Genre: Musical drama

OTT Platform: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video

5. Hera Pheri

Three unemployed men believe they’ve found the answer to all their money troubles when they receive a mysterious call from a kidnapper, but things quickly spiral out of control. A twist of fate changes the lives of Raju, Shyam, and Baburao when they’re duped by a fraudster, forcing them to find a way to repay a loan taken from a dreaded gangster.

This light-hearted Indian comedy is a fun ride from start to finish. The characters are well-developed and memorable, each with a solid backstory, and the cleverly written storyline keeps you laughing and engaged throughout.

Genre: Comedy

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video

So, as the festive glow lingers and the aroma of incense sticks, diyas, and candles spreads across your cosy home, along with the sweetness of mithai still in the air, make the most of this holiday. Gather your family, grab those leftover snacks, and dive into these best Bollywood timeless movies. Whether it’s the heartfelt family dramas that make you tear up, the over-the-top spectacles that make you laugh, or the nostalgic comedies that never get old, each of these movies reminds us why Bollywood storytelling continues to capture our hearts.

Want some OTT recommendations from the releases this week? Then read this article! New OTT releases: A mood-based guide on what to stream this weekend!

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