Bollywood and Diwali: Films that celebrate the festival of lights like no other

Released in 2001, this family drama brought together a stellar ensemble including Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor, and Jaya Bachchan. One of the most memorable Diwali moments is SRK’s iconic entry scene, where Rahul rushes to his mother, who is waiting with a puja thali, while the Diwali celebrations glow in the background — a visual that remains etched in audience memory.

The 1994 blockbuster starring Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit is widely regarded as one of the quintessential Diwali films. The story reaches a poignant Diwali moment with the delivery of Pooja’s son, bringing the entire family together. The celebrations are perfectly complemented by the festive song Dhiktana Dhiktana, sung by SP Balasubrahmanyam, making it a timeless festival classic.

Released in 1997, this film stars Kamal Haasan in the titular role, supported by Tabu, Amrish Puri, and Om Puri. A standout Diwali moment features Haasan’s character heroically saving Bharti (played by Fatima Sana Shaikh) from firecrackers, blending comedy, drama, and the festive spirit seamlessly.

The 1999 crime drama directed by Mahesh Manjrekar stars Sanjay Dutt, Namrata Shirodkar, Mohnish Bahl, Shivaji Satam, and Reema Lagoo. One memorable scene shows Raghu meeting his family against the backdrop of Diwali celebrations, adding a poignant contrast between the festive joy and the film’s gritty narrative.

Directed by Aditya Chopra, ‘Mohabbatein’ remains one of Bollywood’s most successful romantic dramas. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Uday Chopra, Jimmy Shergil, and Jugal Hansraj, the song Pairon Mein Bandhan Hai is set against a beautiful Diwali backdrop, perfectly blending romance, music, and the festival’s luminous charm.