Over the years, Bollywood has played a vital role in beautifully showcasing the charm of different cities in India. Among other cities, ‘Dilwalon ki Dilli’ (Delhi, the city of big-hearted people) has been the first choice of many filmmakers who have romanticised the capital city in their own way as the backdrop of their movies.
From Delhi’s food to its majestic monuments and from its bustling streets to its big-hearted people, everything about this place is truly amazing. So, today we are talking about some such films that not only captured the essence of this city but also made us fall in love with it.
10 films dedicated to the country’s capital Delhi
1. Hindi Medium (2017)
Topping the list is Irrfan Khan and Saba Qamar’s Hindi Medium. If you want to relive Delhi life, there can be no better choice than this. Directed by Saket Chaudhary, the film captures the city’s varied surroundings and its diverse landscapes brilliantly. The film begins in Old Delhi, a vibrant cultural melting pot, and then the story quickly moves to the posh and upscale Vasant Vihar.
The director has used his brilliant talent to highlight the economic divide in Bharat Nagar. This film is a great time traveller that will take you on a mental tour of the city.
2. Tamasha (2015)
Next on the list is Imtiaz Ali-directed film Tamasha, which made a special place for Delhi. Though the film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone was shot in stunning locations across the world, it holds a special place in fans’ hearts for its heart-touching song ‘Agar Tum Saath Ho’, which was shot in one of the most popular cafes in Hauz Khas. The area is considered to be one of the favourite places to visit for Delhiites.
3. Raanjhanaa (2013)
Directed by Anand L. Rai, Raanjhanaa was primarily based in Banaras. Yet, there is a special scene featuring Abhay Deol and Sonam Kapoor. We get to see college life in the famous JNU and the story set in Delhi, which later evolves and brings Dhanush into the picture. With a wider lens including student politics and the fight against those in power, the film deepens your love for the city.
4. Fukrey (2013)
fukery It is truly one of Bollywood’s most loved franchises. The first installment was praised for its authentic and raw characters. The humour in its characters will remind you of the Delhi University campus experience and the crowded lanes of East Delhi. The song Ambarsariya will remind you of the scenes of children playing cricket on the streets and adults peeking from their balconies – scenes we all grew up watching.
5. Vicky Donor (2012)
The 2012 released film Vicky Donor, which introduced Ayushmann Khurrana and Yami Gautam to the industry, deserves a special mention in this list. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, this film is also a great film which tells the story of a boy from Lajpat Nagar, Delhi who lives with his mother and grandmother.
From the quintessential lifestyle of the closely located homes to Connaught Place, Delhi and the holy Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, it truly takes you on a journey with its beautiful representation.
6. Rockstar (2011)
Talking about movies that depict the beauty of Delhi, how can we not mention Imtiaz Ali’s movie Rockstar? Ranbir Kapoor’s Janardhan’s story begins from Delhi University. Before achieving great heights, his hardships and challenges lead him to the holy Nizamuddin Dargah, which changes his life forever.
Moreover, from the chilly winters of Delhi to the crowded streets of Old Delhi where he goes with Heer to watch the C-grade film Junglee Jawani, the film brings the city alive from a completely different perspective.
7. Delhi Belly (2011)
Released in 2011, Delhi Belly, is a black comedy that stays true to its title and showcases the raw and harsh essence of the urban environment of Delhi in the best possible way. Starring Imran Khan, the film was shot authentically in real locations like Lajpat Nagar and the crowded streets of the city. If you want to relive the old memories built around the city, then this could be a great option for you to binge watch.
8. Delhi 6 (2009)
Delhi-6 starring Abhishek Bachchan and Sonam Kapoor, directed by Rakesh Omprakash Mehra, deserves a special mention. The film is not only worth watching but also gives you a pleasant tour of heritage sites like Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Connaught Place, metro trains and other lanes of Old Delhi.
Additionally, the filmmaker has captured the micro-culture by presenting the middle-class lifestyle through scenes of drying pickles on the rooftop, grinding turmeric and masala, and drying red chillies, which is beautifully depicted in the songs Genda Phool and Masakali.
9. Rang De Basanti (2006)
This Rakesh Omprakash Mehra film is one of the best films ever made in Bollywood. The National Award-winning film Rang De Basanti is the story of Delhi University students who are inspired by five freedom fighters. They start a revolutionary movement, and their journey in the film is beautifully captured with scenes from the All India Radio office and some classic moments at India Gate that will surely give you goosebumps.
10. Fanaa (2006)
Next up is Aamir Khan and Kajol’s cult classic film Fanaa. The romantic drama between Zooni and Rehan begins in Delhi, showcasing the city’s vibrant architecture, bustling streets and diverse neighbourhoods. In fact, the much-loved song Chand Sifarish showcases the capital’s charm through iconic landmarks like the Red Fort, Jantar Mantar, Qutub Minar, Purana Qila, Rashtrapati Bhavan and Lodhi Gardens.
These were some of our shortlisted movies. However, apart from the list mentioned above, movies like Chashme Badoor, Kurbaan, Aisha, Dev D, PK, Monsoon Wedding, No One Killed Jessica, Rajma Chawal, Do Dooni Chaar, Queen, 3 Idiots, Chhapak have presented Delhi in the most beautiful way. So, you can add these to your weekend watch list too.
Which one of these did you like? Don’t forget to share with us in the comments section.
