Valentine’s Day 2026: Growing up, many of us learned what love was supposed to look like through Bollywood. For decades, Hindi films have captured love in all its forms, from innocent first crushes to long-distance
longing and lifelong commitment. These iconic love stories did not just entertain us; they helped define how an entire generation came to imagine love.
Many of these stories remain popular even today, with people watching and rewatching them. If you want to check out such iconic romances on this Valentine’s Day, then read on.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
Raj and Simran’s romance is one of the most iconic love stories in Bollywood history. Their journey, which begins with banter during a European trip, grows into deep love. Instead of running away with her, Raj musters up the courage to face Simran’s conservative family and marry her with their permission. Directed by Aditya Chopra, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol starred as the lead pair.
Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein
The cult classic romantic film centres on a carefree Maddy, who falls head over heels in love with Reena at first sight. Their love story is filled with misunderstandings, lies, and flaws before they reach the point of forgiveness and change. The film starred R. Madhavan, Dia Mirza, and Saif Ali Khan.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the romantic drama centres on Nandini (Aishwarya Rai), who falls in love with Sameer (Salman Khan). But then gets married to Vanraj (Ajay Devgn). But once her husband learns about Nandini’s first love, he decides to reunite them. But what happens next portrays the difference between passionate love and mature love.
Kal Ho Naa Ho
Aman enters Naina’s life as a ray of sunshine, changing how she looks at it. All the while, he has a secret of his own that he hides from her. The film stood out the most for its portrayal of selfless love. Directed by Nikhil Advani, it featured Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles.
Veer-Zaara
Directed by Yash Chopra, the film tells the story of Veer, an Indian Air Force officer, who falls for Zaara, a Pakistani woman. They not only face several obstacles but also years of separation. The film shows how true love can survive distance, time and hardships. Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta played the lead couple.
Jab We Met
The film follows a heartbroken Aditya, who meets the very lively Geet on a train. When Geet misses her train, the two set off on an unexpected journey together. Along the way, they help each other heal and grow. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film is loved for its message of self-love and the importance of taking chances. Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor played Aditya and Geet, respectively.
Rockstar
Yet another Imtiaz Ali romantic film, Rockstar follows the story of JJ, a man who dreams of becoming a famous musician. Following advice to embrace heartbreak, he falls for Heer, and their complicated love story shapes his journey. Besides its storyline, the film is loved for its unforgettable soundtrack. Ranbir Kapoor and Nargis Fakhri star in the film.
Barfi!
Directed by Anurag Basu, Barfi follows the story of a hearing- and speech-impaired man who experiences love and loss. He falls for Shruti, who leaves him due to social pressure, and finds love again with Jhilmil. Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D’Cruz feature in the film.
Masaan
The film tells two parallel stories set in Benaras. Masaan explores the themes of love, loss, guilt and social barriers. Vicky Kaushal’s character experiences a gentle romance that ends in tragedy. Whereas Richa Chadda’s Devi faces harassment from a police officer after he records a barely dressed Devi inside a hotel room with her boyfriend on his phone. He later commits suicide, and the police officer threatens Devi to give him a bribe, or he will arrest her.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
A Karan Johar film, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, explores a one-sided love story and friendship. Ayan falls for his friend Alizeh, who does not return his feelings, leading him to face heartbreak and grow. Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai as the lead cast, whereas Shah Rukh Khan makes a cameo.
