Inspiring Bollywood films that show dreams thrive against all odds with hope and resilience

Cinema has always been one of the most influential media in existence. Bollywood has taken full advantage of this and has managed to tell some of the most inspiring stories beautifully and intricately. From sports films like ‘Chak De! India’, which tells you to never give up on your dream, to ‘Manjhi: The Mountain Man’ that portrays real-life stories on screen for everyone to know about. Such films have always been one of the reasons why Bollywood films are so well-loved. Here are 6 films that show resilience, hope, and determination are the keys to success.

This Gauri Shinde direcotrial is perfect film for when you feel that your efforts are not enough. The story follows the life of a housewife, who is teased and called out regularly for her inability to read, speak or write English. Even her own family taunts her on various occasions. When she, her husband, and two kids go to the States for a family wedding, she takes it on herself to learn English by joining a class for beginners. The story shows how important it is to take control of your life and value yourself before caring for others.

Perhaps an iconic fan favourite, this SRK-starring film lives in the hearts of many Indians to date. It can become the perfect rewatch for when you forget what your dreams are all about. The story follows a hockey coach who has long retired, but returns to the sports scene to train a group of rugged women from across the country to get them to the World Cup. It beautifully tells the tale of how hard work and continuous effort can help you get where you want to be in your life.

‘Super 30’ is a fictional piece of work inspired by real events! It follows the story of Anand Kumar, who is played by none other than Hrithik Roshan. He is a wonderful and intelligent mathematician, who, instead of prioritising a more heavily paying job, opts to teach underprivileged children instead. It is an inspiring tale of how education and dedication towards your cause can go a long way and help people.

Starring Sonam Kapoor in the lead role, this is another awe-inspiring film about the heroic story of flight attendant Neerja. The film follows her story as she worked to protect the 359 passengers on Pan Am Flight 73 in 1986 after it was hijacked by terrorists. She ends up sacrificing herself in order to save the lives on that flight, and with Kapoor’s acting prowess, the story has brought forth a lot of praise. This film plays as a tribute to the resilience and courage that people show in times of tragedy and need.

This film marked Rani Mukherji’s return to the big screen after almost 4 years, and has managed to become one of the most loved films as well. ‘Hichki’ tells the tale of a teacher who has tourette’s syndrome. While most are affected by this are pushed down, she takes the taunts on as a challenge to overcome. The story follows her as she teaches a group of underprivileged and mischievous students who are often judged by others. It is another tale that shows how not giving up on your goal works out in the end. The story is based on the life of Brad Cohen, an American teacher and motivational speaker.

Another inspiring tale based on the real-life story of Mary Kom, a woman who came from nothing, but sis not give up on her dream. Played by Priyanka Chopra, the story follows her as she navigates through gender bias, poverty, as well as her responsibilities as a mother to become a boxing champion and to represent the country on international platforms. This sports film is another epic tale of breaking barriers and how perseverance pays through.

This fictional tale tells the story of a deaf and mute boy named Iqbal, who has been obsessed with cricket ever since he can remember. Played by Shreyas Talpade, the inspiring film follows his journey as he tries to make his dreams of becoming a cricket player and playing for the national team come true. Trained by a former cricket coach, while being supported by his sister, he manages to break through boundaries and make it to the national team for his country. It shows that with hope and determination, everything is possible.