Underrated Indian Romantic Movies That Deserve More Love
Romance is one of the most celebrated genres in Indian cinema, but while some love stories become iconic, others quietly fade into the background despite being absolute gems. If you’re tired of rewatching the same old Bollywood blockbusters and are in the mood for something fresh, here’s a list of underrated Indian romantic movies that deserve way more appreciation.
1. Sanam Teri Kasam (2016) – Love, Tragedy, and an Ocean of Tears
If you love stories that leave you emotionally wrecked, Sanam Teri Kasam is a must-watch. This film takes the classic ‘opposites attract’ trope in Bollywood romances and infuses it with intense emotions, heartbreak, and a soul-stirring soundtrack. Harshvardhan Rane plays Inder, a misunderstood, brooding man with a troubled past, while Mawra Hocane plays Saraswati, a simple, traditional girl whose life turns upside down due to a misunderstanding. As their paths intertwine, they develop an achingly beautiful bond—one that is passionate yet painfully tragic. The movie’s music, especially songs like Tera Chehra and Sanam Teri Kasam, enhances the emotional depth, making every moment unforgettable.
2. Sir (2018) – A Subtle Love Story That Breaks Social Barriers
Sir is one of those Indian films that challenges the conventional romances that we have all grown up believing and watching. The story follows Ratna (Tillotama Shome), a domestic worker in Mumbai, and Ashwin (Vivek Gomber), her wealthy employer. While their relationship begins with professional boundaries, a tender emotional connection begins to blossom as they share their dreams, insecurities, and silent moments of companionship.
What makes Sir so unique is its quiet, restrained storytelling. There are no typical love-at-first-sight moments or grand declarations of love like in most Indian romantic movies—just an organic, deeply human connection that transcends societal barriers. The film beautifully portrays the idea that love is not just about passion but also about mutual respect, understanding, and the courage to dream beyond circumstances.
3. Meri Pyaari Bindu (2017) – Love, Nostalgia, and the One That Got Away
Love isn’t always about happy endings, and Meri Pyaari Bindu captures that bittersweet reality beautifully. The film follows Abhimanyu (Ayushmann Khurrana), a writer, who reflects on his tumultuous relationship with Bindu (Parineeti Chopra), his childhood love and best friend.
What makes this film special is how it blends romance with nostalgia, music, and self-discovery. Bindu is unpredictable and free-spirited, while Abhimanyu is deeply devoted and constantly longing for something more. The film plays out like a love letter to memories—of mixtapes, old-school romance, and the agony of loving someone who might never fully love you back. With a stunning soundtrack featuring Maana Ke Hum Yaar Nahi, this film is one of the best Indian romantic movies that will leave you reminiscing about your own ‘what if’ moments.
4. Bhanumathi Ramakrishna (2020) – A Refreshing Take on Love in the 30s
Romantic movies often focus on young, dreamy love, but the Telugu movie Bhanumathi Ramakrishna gives us something refreshingly different—a mature love story between two people in their 30s. Set in Hyderabad, the film follows Bhanumathi (Salony Luthra), a strong, independent woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Ramakrishna (Naveen Chandra), a simple yet endearing man from a small town.
What sets this film apart is its realistic portrayal of relationships, career pressures, and societal expectations. The chemistry between the leads is understated yet powerful, making you root for their love story. It’s a film that proves that love doesn’t always have to be intense and dramatic—it can be found in the quiet, everyday moments of life.
5. Arike (2012) – A Philosophical Love Story About Destiny and Choices
Malayalam cinema has always been known for its nuanced storytelling, and Arike, directed by Shyamaprasad, is a hidden gem in the romance genre. Inspired by a short story by Sunil Gangopadhyay, the film explores love, fate, and human relationships through three central characters—Shantanu (Dileep), an academic who believes in logic and reason; Anuradha (Samvrutha Sunil), his devoted lover; and Kalpana (Mamta Mohandas), Anuradha’s free-spirited friend who challenges the conventional idea of love.
Unlike typical romances, Arike doesn’t follow a predictable path. It questions whether love is about destiny or the choices we make. With poetic cinematography, a soothing background score, and heartfelt performances, this is a film that leaves you reflecting on love beyond just romance.
6. Raincoat (2004) – Love, Regret, and Unfinished Stories
Based on O. Henry’s short story The Gift of the Magi, Raincoat is one of the most poignant love stories ever made in Indian cinema. Directed by Rituparno Ghosh, the film stars Ajay Devgn and Aishwarya Rai in roles that showcase their most subtle and heartfelt performances.
The story revolves around Mannu, a struggling man who visits his former lover Neeru, now married and leading a seemingly comfortable life. As they sit in a dimly lit room reminiscing about their past, layers of unspoken emotions, longing, and regret unfold. There are no grand flashbacks or melodrama—just two souls aching for a life they never had.
With its slow, poetic narrative and hauntingly beautiful music by Debojyoti Mishra, Raincoat is a melancholic masterpiece that lingers in your heart like an old, unfinished letter.
7. Love Per Square Foot (2018) – Romance in the Time of Real Estate
Finding love is hard, but finding affordable housing in Mumbai? Even harder! Love Per Square Foot is a refreshing romantic comedy that blends romance with the struggle of urban living. Starring Vicky Kaushal and Angira Dhar, the film follows two strangers who agree to a marriage of convenience just to buy a house together.
The film takes a lighthearted yet honest look at modern relationships, aspirations, and middle-class dreams. It’s funny, heartwarming, and filled with relatable moments that make it a delightful watch. If you’re looking for a feel-good love story that isn’t overly dramatic, this one’s for you.
8. Cheeni Kum (2007) – Love Knows No Age
Romance isn’t just for the young, and Cheeni Kum proves that with charm and wit. This unconventional love story between a 64-year-old chef (Amitabh Bachchan) and a 34-year-old woman (Tabu) is refreshing, funny, and deeply moving.
The film beautifully explores themes of companionship, loneliness, and the societal norms around age-gap relationships. With crackling chemistry between the leads and a delightful supporting role by Paresh Rawal as the disapproving father, Cheeni Kum is a charming take on love that defies stereotypes.
Romantic movies don’t always need to be about grand gestures and perfect endings. Sometimes, the most beautiful love stories are found in quiet moments, unspoken words, and everyday struggles. These underrated gems remind us that love is messy, unpredictable, heartbreaking, and wonderful all at once.
So, which one are you watching next? Or do you have your own hidden gem that deserves more love? Drop your favorites in the comments! 💕
I can’t stop talking about films, so I blog!
I started The FourthWall, my film blog, to share my thoughts on films and shows with fellow movie buffs, and over the years it has become my happy place. Come join in for some interesting conversations on cinema… and sometimes books and fashion!
