From Veere Di Wedding to Queen – Here are 5 Bollywood films celebrating female friendships to watch on Galentine’s Day

Are you sulking by watching Instagram reels of men asking their girlfriends to be their Valentine this year? Going with the trend for Galentine’s Day celebrations on social media, it’s time to ditch the traditional Valentine’s Day festivities and opt for a heartwarming movie night with your girl gang. Here are five Bollywood films that celebrate the power and beauty of female friendships:

Veere Di Wedding (2018)

Helmed by Shashanka Ghosh, this film tells the story of four female best friends and their journey through various ups and downs. Starring Kareena Kapoor Khan, Sonam Kapoor Ahuja, Swara Bhaskar and Shikha Talsania, Veere Di Wedding is a heartwarming tale that will fill you with nostalgic memories of your childhood and teenage years.

Parched (2015)

Directed by Leena Yadav, Parched portrays the deep friendship between four women living in a rural village in Gujarat who defy social norms and patriarchal traditions. The film explores their journey of empowerment, resilience and solidarity as they navigate through oppressive societal norms and patriarchal traditions while seeking a life away from all the misery of customs, traditions and patriarchy.

Queen (2013)

Directed by Vikas Bahl, Queen is a film that showcases the acting prowess of actress Kangana Ranaut. Kangana plays the role of Rani, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery after her wedding is called off. Along the way, she finds everlasting friendships in total strangers and one such bond is formed with Vijaylaxmi, played by Lisa Haydon in the film. Vijaylaxmi makes Rani feel confident about herself and embrace her individuality and independence.

Aisha (2010)

One of Sonam Kapoor’s finest performances, Aisha (directed by Rajshree Ojha), is about a rich young girl and how she deals with her tumultuous relationships with her close ones. Her friendship with Pinky, played by Ira Dubey, and Shefali, portrayed by Amrita Thakur, serves as a pillar of support and strength throughout the film. The movie showcases their supportive and sometimes tumultuous friendship as they navigate love, life and social dynamics in high-society Delhi.  

Chak De! India (2007)

Shimit Amin’s Chak De! India is not just a sports drama but also a celebration of female friendships, set in the undertones of Indian diverse culture. As coach Kabir Khan, played by Shah Rukh Khan, helps the team overcome internal conflicts and societal prejudices, the girls organically come together and develop a bond that helps them become number one in the world. While the focus is on the relationship shared between the coach and the team, the bonds of friendship and sisterhood that develop among the players, such as Bindia Naik, played by Shilpa Shukla, and Komal Chautala, portrayed by Chitrashi Rawat, are integral to the storyline.

This Galentine’s Day, ditch all the traditions of a romantic Valentine’s week, and instead spend a heartwarming day and binge-watch these iconic Bollywood films celebrating female friendships with your girl gang.