Bollywood has long been telling the story of love in all its myriad shades, enthralling audiences with unforgettable characters who have embodied the essence of this emotion. From Shah Rukh Khan’s passionate rebirth-inspired devotion in Om Shanti Om to Preity Zinta’s heartfelt transformation in Kal Ho Na Ho, these portrayals remain in our memories even after the credits roll.
With stories of unconditional love, sacrifice and resilience, Bollywood’s iconic characters have beautifully showcased the power of love – to heal, inspire and transform. Here’s a look at some of the timeless cinematic personalities who taught us what it truly means to love.
5 Netflix Movie Characters Who Actually Advocated Love And We Can Never Get Over Them:
Shahrukh Khan in Om Shanti Om
In Om Shanti Om, Shah Rukh Khan’s character, Om Kapoor, symbolizes the enduring and transformative power of love. In his earlier life as a junior artiste, Om selflessly admires Shantipriya (Deepika Padukone), an actress beyond his reach, thereby proving that love transcends social barriers.
Even after his tragic death, the love and longing for him remains intact in his rebirth. Om’s journey reflects not only romantic love but also an intense love for justice, as he dedicates his second life to avenge Shantipriya’s untimely demise.
Shahrukh’s portrayal highlights love’s ability to inspire courage, loyalty and the constant search for truth.
Deepika Padukone in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
In Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Deepika Padukone’s character, Naina Talwar, beautifully embodies love through her journey of self-discovery and emotional growth. Starting out as a shy, studious girl, Naina learns to embrace life and love while on a life-changing journey with her friends.
Her quiet but steadfast love for Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor) is a testament to her strength and maturity – she loves without any expectations, giving Bunny the freedom to pursue his dreams. Ultimately, his patience and understanding brings her back to him.
Naina’s character highlights that true love is about acceptance, selflessness and staying true to yourself.
Preity Zinta in Kal Ho Na Ho
In Kal Ho Na Ho, Preity Zinta’s character, Naina Catherine Kapoor, epitomizes the transformative power of love. Naina, who initially appears serious and cautious, learns to open her heart through her interactions with Aman (Shah Rukh Khan).
Their journey captures the essence of finding love, losing it and ultimately discovering its deeper meaning. Although Aman hides his feelings due to his terminal illness, his influence inspires Naina to embrace life to the fullest and find happiness with Rohit (Saif Ali Khan).
Naina’s story is a testament to how love can heal, teach acceptance and help move forward with hope.
Ranbir Kapoor in Tamasha
In Tamasha, Ranbir Kapoor’s character, Ved Vardhan Sahni, represents love in its purest, most transformative form. Ved begins as a man trapped in societal expectations, suppressing his true self to fit into the conventional mold.
Through his relationship with Tara (Deepika Padukone) he begins to rediscover his authentic identity. Tara’s unwavering love becomes a mirror, showing Ved his potential beyond social barriers.
Veda’s journey highlights how love can inspire self-realization and the courage to break free from worldliness. His story beautifully illustrates that to truly love others, one must first embrace one’s own truth.
Hrithik Roshan in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Hrithik Roshan’s character Arjun Saluja in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is an example of how love can change priorities and perspectives. Initially, Arjun is busy with work, motivated by material success and detached from emotional ties.
However, through a life-changing road trip with his friends and a budding romance with Laila (Katrina Kaif), he learns to slow down and appreciate the beauty of life.
Laila’s independent outlook teaches her to embrace the present, break free from her rigid mindset and value relationships more than materialistic goals. Arjun’s journey shows that love can lead to profound personal growth and a new zest for life.
So, let us know which one is your favourite.
Also read: Do you know that AR Rahman had apologized to Badshah for initially disliking the remake of the song Humma Humma? lamps inside
