It is often said that films and literature are a mirror of society, and cinema has long influenced the way people think and live. Between 1999 and 2003, three Hindi films were released that carried age-old stories yet won the hearts of audiences. Despite being considered old-fashioned, Hum Saath-Saath Hain, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Baghban became massive hits, moving the younger generation with their strong focus on family relationships. (News18 Hindi)

Released on November 5, 1999, Hum Saath-Saath Hain featured an ensemble cast including Salman Khan, Sonali Bendre, Mohnish Bahl, Tabu, Saif Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Alok Nath, Reema Lagoo, Shakti Kapoor, and Neelam Kothari. Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, the film showcased the importance of family bonds, a recurring theme in his work under the Rajshri Productions banner. (News18 Hindi)

The music of the film, composed by Raam Laxman, was a huge success. Songs such as’ Yeh To Sach Hai Ki Bhagwan Hai‘ struck an emotional chord, reminding audiences of parents and traditional values. Made on a budget of Rs 17 crore, the film collected Rs 39 crore in India and Rs 81 crore worldwide, emerging as the top-grossing film of 1999. (News18 Hindi)

The second film on the list is Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, a multi-starrer family drama released on December 14, 2001. Directed, written, and scripted by Karan Johar, the film stood out for its grandeur and lavish sets. Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Jaya Bachchan, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor, and Farida Jalal played the lead roles. (News18 Hindi)

This was Karan Johar’s second film as director after Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in 1998. The music became a chartbuster, and the film ended up as the second-highest grosser of 2001. With a budget of Rs 40 crore, it earned Rs 55 crore in India and Rs 119 crore overseas. Even today, the film continues to be a family favourite. (News18 Hindi)

On October 3, 2003, Baghban hit the theatres, portraying the bond between parents and children and the value of respect within families. Directed by Ravi Chopra and produced by B.R. Chopra, the film initially struggled at the box office but later picked up momentum and turned into a commercial success. (News18 Hindi)

Made on a budget of Rs 10 crore, Baghban earned Rs 20 crore in India and Rs 43 crore worldwide. Its songs also struck a chord with audiences, but what stood out most was Amitabh Bachchan’s emotional speech towards the end, which left many viewers in tears and cemented the film’s place as a timeless family drama. (News18 Hindi)