Uplifting Bollywood movies that made a lasting mark

Bollywood has the power to inspire and change the narrative of people. These films go beyond the concept of basic entertainment and showcase the powerful stories that inspire and motivate the audience to believe in themselves and the goodness of life. So let's have a look at some of the uplifting Bollywood movies that made a lasting mark

The movie follows Rani, a young woman from Delhi, who is left devastated as her fiancé calls off the wedding. Determined to regain her confidence, she embarks on her planned honeymoon to Paris and Amsterdam by herself. As the movie progresses, she discovers new friends, how to accept her freedom, and steps out of her comfort zone. Starring Kangana Ranaut, Queen is a moving story of strength and self-discovery. The movie left a lasting impression because it showcased the scenarios where a woman slowly starts to love herself and heal the broken pieces of her life. It also taught the audience that you can do anything, even when you think you’re alone.

Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, Barfi! is a heartwarming movie that captures the essence of acceptance and unconditional love. The movie follows Barfi, a deaf and mute boy, who navigates love and life through charm and hard work. The film delves into his relationships with two women— Shruti, a high-end woman who leaves him due to societal pressure, and Shruti, an autistic girl with whom he shares a very innocent yet sweet bond. The movie left a lasting impact as it delved into the themes of mental illness as well as physical disabilities, all the while making the audience fall in love with the characters.

Pad Man is a biographical movie based on the life of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a Tamil Nadu social entrepreneur who created an inexpensive sanitary pad manufacturing machine, intending to enhance menstrual hygiene in rural India. Lakshmikant Chauhan, who is played by Akshay Kumar, develops a sanitary line focused on the betterment of women after witnessing the struggles his wife goes through during her periods. The film deals with sensitive topics like menstruation and menstrual health awareness, as well as addresses the taboo around the subject.

Neerja follows the story of a fierce 22-year-old flight attendant, Neerja Bhanot, who showed immense bravery on 5th September, 1986, during the hijacking of Pan Am Flight 73 in Karachi, Pakistan. Throughout the 17 hours ordeal, she managed to alert the cabin crew, safeguard the passengers, and shield everyone from the violent hijackers. Tragically, she lost her life while protecting three children. She managed to save 359 lives on board that day. The film is a tribute to Neerja’s courage and sacrifice. It left a lasting impact as it showcased the bravery and resilience of a young flight attendant, a civilian, who risked her life to save the people during a horrific event.

Piku features the bond between a father and daughter. The story follows Piku, a headstrong architect, and her hypochondriac father, Bhaskor Banerjee. Bhaskor's obsession with his health, especially his bowel movements, is the center of their life. When they embark on a trip from Delhi to Kolkata with their reluctant taxi driver, Rana, it turns into a journey of emotional discoveries, tensions, and friendship. The movie showcased the difficulties faced by an independent woman while working as well as taking care of the household.

Dangal is a biographical film based on the true life events of a wrestler, Mahavir Singh Phogat, and his daughters Geeta and Babita. The story follows Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trains his two daughters, Geeta and Babita, in wrestling, a male-dominated sport. Despite limited resources and societal pressure, the girls rise through the ranks and win the competitions, eventually leading to Geeta winning gold at the Commonwealth Games. The movie is an inspiration as it deals with gender equality, determination, and the spirit of sportsmanship. Watching Geeta and Babita fight not just opponents but deep-rooted stereotypes inspired audiences, especially young girls, to believe in themselves and chase their goals, no matter how unconventional or challenging the path.