14 Bollywood Films That Inspire Us to Live Life to the Fullest
Life is full of unpredictable twists and turns, and some Bollywood films capture that unpredictability in the most heartwarming and life-affirming ways.
From embracing deep friendships to taking that unexpected leap of faith, these films remind us that sometimes, it's the unknowns that truly shape who we are.
They inspire us to laugh louder, love deeper, and live bolder.
Here's a list of Bollywood films that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and remind you to appreciate life, even in its messiness. Which one inspired you the most?
Let us know!
Qarib Qarib Single (2017)
Jaya leads a safe, predictable life, avoiding risks and keeping her feelings bottled up. Enter Yogi—a free-spirited poet who sweeps her into a chaotic, cross-country adventure to meet his ex-girlfriends. While their personalities clash, their shared moments on the road push Jaya to open up and let her guard down. The film beautifully captures the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone.
The Sky is Pink (2019)
Aisha, a vibrant teen battling a terminal illness, teaches her family about resilience, love, and living in the moment. As her family navigates through the pain of impending loss, they learn that everyone grieves and heals in their own way. The film is a poignant reminder that life doesn't always go according to plan, but we can still find beauty in it. After all, a pink sky can be just as beautiful as a blue one.
What Are the Odds? (2019)
When Vivek loses his admit card, he and his awkward classmate Ashwin end up on a surreal journey across Mumbai, encountering eccentric characters and strange situations. Filled with whimsical charm and a Wes Anderson-inspired aesthetic, this film celebrates the magic that can be found in the most unexpected encounters and mundane moments. It's a quirky, feel-good reminder that life's adventures are sometimes closer than we think.
Chhichhore (2019)
In a society where academic success is considered the ultimate measure of success, Raghav's failure sends him into a downward spiral. But his parents, who were once labeled as 'losers,' come to his aid, showing him that life is not just about success and failure. Through their college days' memories, Raghav learns to embrace life's ups and downs, ultimately finding the courage to live life fully, no matter the obstacles.
Karwaan (2018)
Avinash's life takes an unexpected turn when he receives the wrong body after his father's death. This bizarre road trip, where he, along with a few unlikely companions, sets out to fulfill his father's final wishes, becomes a journey of self-discovery. Amidst the chaos, Avinash reconnects with his passion for photography and learns to live life on his terms.
Finding Fanny (2014)
When Ferdie embarks on a journey to find his lost love, he is joined by a quirky group of friends, each carrying their own burdens. The film weaves a story of love, loss, and the weirdness of life. Through this bizarre road trip, the characters learn that sometimes, the most unlikely journeys lead to the most meaningful destinations.
Fukrey (2013)
Hunny and Choocha are dreamers with big plans, but their poor grades and misguided decisions lead them into a world of trouble. From getting tangled up with a local gangster to dreaming of fake lottery winnings, this film is an absurd, hilarious reminder that dreams can come true in the most unpredictable ways—and often, it's the journey that counts more than the destination.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Bunny, the adventurous spirit, urges his friends to explore the world, but it's his homecoming that truly captures the essence of this film. Beyond the stunning Manali landscapes and slow-burn romance, it teaches us the importance of pausing to reflect on what we truly want in life—and sometimes, the answer is closer than we think. This film beautifully balances adventure with self-discovery.
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)
Three friends embark on a life-changing road trip across Spain, each confronting their fears and unresolved emotions. Whether it's facing a fear of heights or embracing love, this film encourages us to live without regrets, pursue our passions, and cherish every moment. It's a celebration of life's unpredictability and the beauty of friendship.
Wake Up Sid (2009)
Sid, a carefree young man, learns the importance of responsibility and finding his passion after a series of life lessons. This film's charm lies in its simplicity—how a young man discovers his true calling and learns to face life head-on, armed with love, friendship, and courage.
Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
A revolutionary film for its time, this film portrays the lives of three friends as they navigate love, career, and friendships. It's a timeless reminder that no matter how different we are, our bonds with people we care about can make life feel meaningful. The film captures the magic of youth, with all its struggles, triumphs, and heartfelt moments.
Kai Po Che! (2013)
Based on Chetan Bhagat's novel, this film tells the story of three friends whose lives are dramatically changed by their passion for cricket and the backdrop of political unrest. The film beautifully encapsulates themes of friendship, dreams, and destiny, and how the pursuit of one's passion can alter the course of life.
Tamasha (2015)
Imtiaz Ali's Tamasha explores the complexity of identity and self-expression. Ved, lost in the monotony of life, meets Tara and finds a chance to rediscover himself. This film is a deep dive into the conflict between following societal expectations and staying true to who you are.
3 Idiots (2009)
A film that redefined how we look at education and success, 3 Idiots is about friendship, learning, and the pressure of conformity. It follows three college friends as they navigate the academic system, ultimately teaching us that true success comes from pursuing passion, not grades. It's an anthem for anyone who has ever felt trapped by societal expectations.
Bollywood's greatest films not only entertain but also inspire.
These stories of adventure, love, and resilience push us to live life fully and fearlessly, embracing all the beauty and imperfections it has to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? Let's get out there and make some memories!
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Express Tribune
2 days ago
- Express Tribune
Internet reacts as Bilawal calls Modi ‘Temu version' of Netanyahu
Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called Indian Prime Minister the 'Temu version' of his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu, and the internet is flooded with memes, praising Bilawal's wit and his ability to represent Pakistan at the biggest of forums. Speaking at a press conference at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on Tuesday, Bilawal said, 'Mr Modi is sort of the Temu version of Netanyahu, so it's a poor copy, and we call the Indian government to not be inspired by the worst example possible.' During a press conference at the United Nations headquarters on June 3, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "Temu version of Netanyahu" and a "poor copy" of the Israeli leader. The remark was… — The Express Tribune (@etribune) June 4, 2025 The comment — combining political criticism with a reference to the low-cost Chinese online retailer Temu — quickly went viral on social media platforms, particularly on X, where users flooded timelines with memes and commentary. An absolutely appropriate description of Moodi and the delusional Indians. There is no limit to their Bollywood delusional psychosis. Absolute cheap stuff. — Sarmad Masud (@SarmadDr) June 4, 2025 Many social media users in Pakistan hailed Bilawal's remarks as sharp and effective, viewing them as a reflection of his ability to represent Pakistan at high-level international forums. Another user called the comparison 'an appropriate description' of Modi and his supporters, accusing them of 'Bollywood-style delusional thinking.' Bro went from butcher of Gujrat to temu version of netanyahu🤣🤣🤣😭😭😭 Bro drops bangers only on modi — Abdullah Usmani (@Abdulla81278368) June 4, 2025 One user posted, 'Bro went from 'butcher of Gujarat' to Temu version of Netanyahu… Bro drops bangers only on Modi,' referencing Bilawal's previous UN address in which he criticised Modi and called him the PM of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). 'Osama Bin Laden is dead but the butcher of Gujrat lives and he's the Prime Minister of India' — Bilawal Bhutto WHAT A LINE, WHAT A LEGEND. — miral (@kooslluver) May 11, 2025 Another user exhoed the same, wrote, 'Bilawal Bhutto roasted PM Narendra Modi at the world stage — first 'butcher of Gujarat', now a 'cheap copy of Netanyahu'.' Bilawal Bhutto roasted pm narendar modi at world stage two time first butcher of Gujrat now cheap copy of netanyahu, temu version 😂😂 — Taimoor Baig (@TaimurPharm) June 4, 2025 Reactions also included pointed political commentary as a user posted, 'Seeing Indian Hindu Nazi extremists online support war, genocide, and occupation is disturbing. Backing violence and oppression isn't patriotism — it's complicity.' Bilawal should always represent pakistan on foreign forums. He is a well-spoken man. The only thing i like about ppp. — Seemab Idrees (@seemab_idrees) June 4, 2025 Several users also took the opportunity to praise Bilawal's public speaking and diplomatic skills. 'Bilawal should always represent Pakistan on foreign forums. He is a well-spoken man — the only thing I like about PPP,' said one user. WOWW temu poor copy well said Excellent evaluation — WitchDoctor Roots (@WitchDocto12587) June 4, 2025 Another user referred to him as 'the son of a brave woman,' alluding to his late mother and former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Seeing Indian hindus nazi extreemists online support war, genocide, and occupation is disturbing. Backing violence and oppression isn't patriotism—it's complicity. Humanity must come before hate. Justice before nationalism. Always. — Aijaz Narejo (@AyjazNarej49243) June 4, 2025 The viral moment also spurred jokes aimed at Temu itself. One user commented, 'Temu is going to shut down all its business after being compared with Modi and Netanyahu,' while another quipped, 'Meanwhile, Temu: crying in the corner.' Is this the way to address the PM? and they expect us for dialogue — Srinivas (@sreenislg) June 4, 2025 A few, however, also criticised the comparison. An Indian user, Srinivasan, remarked, 'Is this the way to address the PM? And they expect us to come for dialogue.' While the remarks stirred humour and debate online, they also highlighted the continuing tensions in regional rhetoric between Pakistan and India, as well as the role social media plays in amplifying diplomatic discourse.
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Express Tribune
'Marry your best friend'
In a world of swipe-right love and viral divorces, leave it to the ever-wise and ever-real Nadia Jamil to remind us what enduring romance actually looks like. On Friday, the actor, activist, and all-around icon dropped a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter) that read like a Bollywood screenplay, but with more soul, fewer dance numbers, and a whole lot of wisdom. "We were 14 and 15," she began, immediately pulling readers into a teenage love story that almost didn't survive family disapproval, long-distance years, and even a global pandemic. She paints the early contrast: she, an "emotional romantic artist" from a liberal home; he, a "stoic finance whizz kid" from a conservative background. All parents were against it. But love had other plans. Nadia waited to marry her husband for fifteen years, longer than most celebrity marriages. When the two finally tied the knot, their wedding marked the start of a relationship built on resilience, shared experiences, and gradual growth. "The marriage in itself is such a story," she wrote. "It's had its ups and its downs. We are both very strong personalities, but we both held on." Nadia, in her trademark mix of honesty and grace, doesn't shy away from the hard bits. She talks about the distance that crept in when she moved to Cambridge with the kids and he stayed in Lahore to care for family. She shares how their bond was tested by cancer, grief, financial loss, and parenting across continents. But also how those very battles made them grow together. According to Nadia, the secret is not just love but respect; it's knowing when to hold space for each other. It's flexibility, emotional growth, and the quiet power of honouring your partner's evolution. And yes, there's a happy ending (and a new beginning): their eldest son is now all set to get married, and Nadia is officially a mother-in-law now, to a "fantastic young woman," she beamed. As she coaches other couples now, Nadia sees echoes of her own story in theirs. And her biggest piece of advice is to marry your best friend, the one who grows with you, the one who learns with you, the one who stays, especially when things get hard.
Express Tribune
18-05-2025
- Express Tribune
No right to criticise, says Sabeena Farooq
In a recent Instagram Story, Sabeena Farooq spoke up against the rampant criticism celebrities receive on every action. Calling out those who fuel the trolling, she said, "Not everyone with a blue tick has the right to criticise and call out celebrities (mind you, there are many). Enough with this. We talk, protest, do everything, and still get trolled." Sabeena urged netizens to walk in the shoes of showbiz artists before raising a finger. "You are not receiving thousands of abusive messages everyday, it's us. Come and take our place first, then talk," she emphasised. "Also, just because a few artists don't speak up doesn't mean you should hold the entire artist community accountable. Period." The Mann Jogi actor's comments come at a time when Pakistani celebrities are at odds with their Bollywood counterparts and the Indian media for supporting India's deadly 'Operation Sindoor'. In the recent past, many Pakistani showbiz professionals have spoken up against India's war-mongering attitude towards Pakistan. Sabeena was among those who condemned India's aerial attack on Pakistani civilians. "It's sad. It's sickening. I don't want to talk about countries, but do we really want to witness this? Watch innocent people die and call it a Modi celebration? Killing people in the dark is plain cruel!" Expressing sharp disapproval of the hate campaigning, she added, "I hope and pray that no innocent life is hurt by our side because you can hate us all you want, but we don't and will never support any harm done to an innocent human being." True to her words, Sabeena earlier joined her peers in grieving over the attack in Pahalgam in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). "Whether it is Palestine or Pahalgam, homes have been uprooted and people have seen their loved ones get killed before their eyes. Those who've departed are dead, and those who've been left behind will die everyday. We can't fathom the pain of these people." Urging netizens and the media to respond respectfully, she continued, "Please, Pakistani social media, not everything is a joke. Please allow some empathy to find you. As for Indian media, don't spread hate and don't brainwash people. Show some responsibility. Pain should not be made into an opportunity." Along with Sabeena, many Pakistani artists called out the Indian media for spreading misinformation during the period of crisis. Celebrities such as Farhan Saeed and Umair Jaswal were prompt in criticising irresponsible reporting and fake news. Umair wrote on Instagram Stories, "Open your eyes, neighbours."
