Romantic films take centre stage in Bollywood’s 2025 line-up

Saiyaara leads the way

With heartfelt performances, beautiful music and honest storytelling, 2025 might just be the year Bollywood brought romance back in style.

For the past several years, Bollywood had been dominated by action-packed films as big stars and newcomers alike were seen in larger-than-life action thrillers. Many of these films broke box-office records, like Jawan and Pushpa, while others such as Sikander and Baby John did not perform as well.

During this period, romantic films took a back seat. Many believed that the era of love stories was over. But in 2025, things are changing once again. Romantic films are making a strong comeback and audiences are welcoming them with open arms.

One of the stand-out films this year is Saiyaara, a deeply emotional story about two people from very different backgrounds who unexpectedly fall in love. Directed by Mohit Suri, known for his intense musical romance dramas such as the 2013 hit Aashiqui 2, the film has struck a chord with younger audiences. The film’s intense, heartfelt story line has people flocking the theaters turning it into a blockbuster. Saiyaara features two fresh faces, Ahaan Pandey and Aneet Padda, who are receiving widespread praise for their on-screen chemistry and compelling performances.

However, the love for romance is not just limited to new stories, even old classics are being reimagined. A modern-day take on the popular 2000s romantic drama Life in a… Metro was released under the title Metro: In Dino. The film follows several characters living in a big city, each experiencing love in a different way, whether it is a new relationship, heartbreak or a second chance. The film performed fairly well at the box office and received praise for its realistic characters and portrayal of modern relationships.

This is just the beginning. A string of romantic dramas is lined up for release. Dhadak 2, starring Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi, is set to hit the screens soon. The trailer hints at an intense love story that also deals with caste-based issues. Another highly anticipated release is Tere Ishq Mein, starring Dhanush and Kriti Sanon. Although no trailer has been released yet, the first look at the characters has already created a buzz among fans.

Romantic comedies are also returning in full swing. Param Sundari, featuring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, is set to release in the coming months. Janhvi will also be seen in another romantic comedy alongside Varun Dhawan titled Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari. The makers have already shared a sneak peek of the characters.

There is also much anticipation around Kartik Aaryan’s upcoming untitled romantic film with Sreeleela. Alongside that, Kartik will star in a quirky romantic comedy Tu Mera, Main Teri – Main Tera, Tu Meri opposite Ananya Panday.

Adding to the romantic wave, the upcoming Dil Ka Darwaaza Khol Na Darling brings an unusual mix of generations with Jaya Bachchan, Siddhant Chaturvedi and Wamiqa Gabbi. This romantic comedy explores how love and relationships are viewed differently across age groups, with warmth and humour. Another interesting title is Chand Mera Dil, starring Ananya Panday and Lakshya, which is expected to be a sweet, modern-day romance that blends youthful energy with timeless emotions.

De De Pyaar De 2, the much-awaited sequel to the 2019 hit, is also slated for a May 2025 release. The film starring Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh and Tabu, continues to explore the complexities of love, age-gap relationships and modern-day romance with its signature blend of wit and charm. Later in the year, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, starring Varun Dhawan, is scheduled to release.

This growing interest in romance shows that while action thrillers still have their audience, it is love stories that are truly capturing hearts again.