The year 2001 was a landmark period for Hindi cinema. It gave audiences some of the most beloved romances, unforgettable dramas, path-breaking coming-of-age stories, and cult entertainers that continue to enjoy immense popularity even 25 years later. As these films celebrate their silver jubilee in 2026, it's the perfect time to revisit the movies that shaped Bollywood at the turn of the millennium.
• Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham
Released on December 14, 2001, the film featured Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor Khan. Directed by Karan Johar, it remains one of Bollywood's most celebrated family dramas.
• Lagaan
Released on June 15, 2001, 'Lagaan' starred Aamir Khan, Gracy Singh, and Paul Blackthorne. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, the film earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
Actors Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Akshaye Khanna in a still from 'Dil Chahta Hai'. (Photo courtesy: Excel Entertainment)
• Dil Chahta Hai
Released on August 10, 2001, the film featured Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Preity Zinta, and Dimple Kapadia. It marked the directorial debut of Farhan Akhtar. The coming-of-age drama follows three close friends navigating love, heartbreak, ambition, and adulthood.
• Gadar: Ek Prem Katha
Released on June 15, 2001, the film starred Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel, and Amrish Puri. Directed by Anil Sharma, it became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of its era. Set during the Partition of India, the film tells the story of Tara Singh, a Sikh truck driver who falls in love with Sakina, a Muslim woman.
• Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein
Released on October 19, 2001, the romantic drama starred R Madhavan, Dia Mirza, and Saif Ali Khan. Though it underperformed initially, the film later achieved cult status through television and home video viewership. The story revolves around a young man who impersonates another person to win the affection of a woman he loves.
• Chori Chori Chupke Chupke
Released on March 9, 2001, the film featured Salman Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Preity Zinta in leading roles. Directed by Abbas and Mustan Burmawalla, it was among Bollywood's earliest mainstream films to discuss surrogacy.
• Nayak: The Real Hero
Released on September 7, 2001, the film starred Anil Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, Amrish Puri, and Paresh Rawal. Directed by S Shankar, it later became a cult favorite. The film centers on a television journalist who is challenged to become the Chief Minister for a single day.
