The impact of cinema on our lives extends beyond the fundamental aspects. Movies serve as a substantial source of joy for many, capable of elevating moods with their emotive storytelling. While people enjoy discovering new content, there are moments when, feeling low, sad, or unwell, they turn to their beloved comfort movies. These films carve out a special corner in our hearts, acting as a cinematic sanctuary during challenging times and feel like a warm hug. Let’s explore a selection of movies perfect for turning around a tough day.

List of comfort Bollywood films that will lift your mood:

1. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023)

• IMDb Rating: 6.7/10
• Stars: Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt, Dharmendra, Shabana Azmi, Jaya Bachchan
• Director: Karan Johar
• Genre: Romance/Comedy/Drama
• Writer: Shashank Khaitan, Ishita Moitra, Sumit Roy
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video

This romantic comedy unfolds the tale of two contrasting characters—a vivacious Punjabi young man portrayed by Ranveer Singh and a Bengali journalist embodied by Alia Bhatt—who discover love and navigate the challenge of gaining their families’ approval. Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani epitomizes Bollywood with its blend of family drama, emotions, on-screen chemistry, and a captivating musical backdrop. Rocky’s distinctive English and his affection for Rani are certain to infuse a delightful spirit into your day.

2. Dear Zindagi (2016)

• IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
• Stars: Alia Bhatt, Shah Rukh Khan
• Director: Gauri Shinde
• Genre: Drama
• Writer: Gauri Shinde
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix

Dear Zindagi invites audiences on a poignant journey of self-discovery. Tackling the delicate subject of mental health, the film revolves around Kaira, portrayed by Alia Bhatt, as she seeks guidance from a psychologist played by Shah Rukh Khan. This coming-of-age drama offers a fresh perspective on life’s challenges.

3. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)

• IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
• Stars: Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Kalki Koechlin, Aditya Roy Kapur
• Director: Ayan Mukerji
• Genre: Romance/Comedy/Drama
• Writer: Ayan Mukerji, Hussain Dalal
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix/Amazon Prime Video

In Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Naina (Deepika Padukone), embarks on a transformative journey when she joins her former classmates on a trip. During this adventure, she discovers love with Bunny, played by Ranbir Kapoor, a career-driven individual with a desire to explore the world. The film not only takes you on a travel odyssey but also evokes nostalgia for the bonds of friendship.

4. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
• Stars: Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol, Katrina Kaif, Kalki Koechlin
• Director: Zoya Akhtar
• Genre: Adventure Drama/Romance
• Writer: Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Farhan Akhtar
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix/Amazon Prime Video

Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara makes for a fantastic comfort movie with its blend of friendship, travel, self-discovery, and a celebration of life. It revolves around three friends embarking on a bachelor’s road trip in Spain. Throughout their adventures, they not only experience the joys of life but also find the journey becoming an opportunity to mend relationships and heal emotional wounds.

5. 3 Idiots (2009)

• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
• Stars: Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Boman Irani
• Director: Rajkumar Hirani
• Genre: Comedy/Drama
• Writer: Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijat Joshi
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video

3 Idiots narrates the tale of three college mates who share their engineering years, forging an unbreakable bond. The film provides a glimpse into the challenges of academic life, illustrating how difficulties can be overcome with a positive outlook.

6. Wake Up Sid (2009)

• IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
• Stars: Ranbir Kapoor, Konkona Sen Sharma, Anupam Kher, Supriya Pathak
• Director: Ayan Mukerji
• Genre: Romance/Comedy
• Writer: Ayan Mukerji, Niranjan Iyengar
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix

Wake Up Sid unfolds the story of a guy characterized by laziness and a lack of life goals. Upon leaving his parents’ house, he shares a living space with Aisha, a newcomer to Bombay, and eventually falls in love with her. The film takes the audience on a journey as the protagonist transforms, learning valuable lessons about responsibility and life from Aisha.

7. Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (2008)

• IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
• Stars: Imran Khan, Genelia D’Souza, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah, Prateik Babbar, Manjari Fadnis
• Director: Abbas Tyrewala
• Genre: Romance/Comedy
• Writer: Abbas Tyrewala
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix

Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na is a story of two best friends, Jai and Aditi, who discover love for each other. This Bollywood film, with its clichéd yet endearing narrative, weaves a tale of friendship through the elements of music and comedy and promises to provide comfort and warmth.

8. Jab We Met (2007)

• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
• Stars: Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan
• Director: Imtiaz Ali
• Genre: Romance/Comedy
• Writer: Imtiaz Ali
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Amazon Prime Video

Jab We Met unfolds the life of Geet, a carefree and vibrant character portrayed by Kareena Kapoor Khan, who encounters Aditya (Shahid Kapoor) and brings about a change in his life. Geet’s spirited antics are bound to add a touch of joy to your day.

9. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)

• IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
• Stars: Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Saif Ali Khan, Jaya Bachchan
• Director: Nikkhil Advani
• Genre: Romance/Drama
• Writer: Karan Johar, Niranjan Iyengar
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix/Amazon Prime Video

Kal Ho Naa Ho tells the tale of fractured family bonds, yearning for an angelic presence to mend their troubles. Aman enters Naina’s life, imparting lessons on embracing happiness. While the climax may bring tears, the film’s narrative remains heartwarming, leaving a lasting impact. 

10. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)

• IMDb Rating: 7.4/10
• Stars: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Hrithik Roshan
• Director: Karan Johar
• Genre: Drama
• Writer: Karan Johar, Sheena Parikh
• Where to watch/OTT Platform: Netflix/Amazon Prime Video

In Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Rahul falls in love with Anjali, a relationship not accepted by his father. As years pass, the younger son of the house undertakes a heartfelt promise to bring back his brother. The film beautifully explores themes of familial bonds, love, and reconciliation, making it an emotionally resonant cinematic journey.