Bollywood book adaptations from Devdas, Maqbool, Badlapur that shine on screen

Badlapur, released in 2015, directed by Sriram Raghavan, was inspired by the Italian novel Death’s Dark Abyss by Massimo Carlotto. Varun Dhawan played a man shaped by loss after a tragic crime, with Nawazuddin Siddiqui portraying the antagonist. The film departed from conventional revenge formulas, focusing on moral ambiguity, psychological change and consequence. Its restrained violence and shifting power dynamics earned strong critical appreciation and redefined Dhawan’s screen image.

Aisha, released in 2010 and directed by Rajshree Ojha, was a contemporary adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel Emma. Sonam Kapoor played a privileged young woman navigating friendships and matchmaking within urban Delhi society. The film translated Austen’s social observations into modern Indian settings, blending romance with lifestyle drama. Its costume design, production styling and soundtrack drew attention, while performances by Abhay Deol and the supporting cast anchored its character-driven narrative.

Devdas, released in 2002 and directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, reimagined Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay’s classic Bengali novel. Shah Rukh Khan played the tragic lover torn between Paro and Chandramukhi, portrayed by Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit. Lavish sets, heightened emotion and classical-inspired music defined the adaptation. The film achieved major commercial success, earned multiple awards and became one of the most internationally recognised Indian literary adaptations.

Dil Diya Dard Liya, released in 1966, directed by Abdul Rashid Kardar, was adapted from Emily Brontë’s novel Wuthering Heights. Dilip Kumar starred in a brooding role shaped by love and betrayal, with Waheeda Rehman and Pran in key parts. The film translated gothic passion into an Indian context, emphasising emotional intensity and sacrifice. Its performances, music and enduring themes made it a notable literary adaptation of its era.

Maqbool arrived in 2004 as Vishal Bhardwaj’s adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, relocated to Mumbai’s criminal underworld. Irrfan Khan starred as the conflicted protagonist, with Tabu portraying a complex Lady Macbeth figure. The film explored ambition, loyalty and guilt through crime politics and personal relationships. Atmospheric visuals, layered performances and Bhardwaj’s music enhanced its operatic tone, earning wide acclaim and cementing the director’s Shakespeare trilogy reputation.