Sanjay Leela Bhansali's timeless love story Devdas was way ahead of its time. Exploring themes of unrequited love, societal constraints, and self-destruction, the film delivered an intense emotional experience that viewers have carried with them for years to come. The movie is based on a 1917 novel by Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and follows the story of Devdas Mukherjee, a wealthy but emotionally troubled man who struggles to enjoy life after being separated from his childhood love, Paro, due to societal norms and familial obligations.
From their elaborate sets, jaw dropping costumes, and intricate dance sequences to its star-studded cast featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Madhuri Dixit, Devdas is a true cinematic masterpiece. This year, as the film celebrates its 22nd anniversary release, discover 22 must-see movies like Devdas that capture the essence of intense love, heartbreak, and societal constraints, and find out where to stream them online!
Dev D
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Dev D is a modern and contemporary take on Devdas. The film follows Dev, the son of a rich businessman, as he spirals into a life of self-destruction after losing his childhood love, Paro, to another man due to misunderstandings. As Dev plunges further into alcohol and drugs, he meets Chanda, a sex worker who falls hopelessly in love with him. Set in an urban environment, Dev D reimagines Devdas in a present-day scenario, highlighting the complexities of modern relationships and societal norms.
Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and starring Aishwarya Rai, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam is another bittersweet love triangle that’ll weave you in with its dramatic storytelling. The film follows a newly wed man learns that his wife is actually in love with someone else, and against all societal norms, decides to help her break-free from the marriage, and reunite with her true love by traveling with her all the way to Italy.
Laila Majnu
An Indian retelling of Romeo and Juliet, Laila Majnu, follows two lovers from opposing families as they move heaven and earth to be together. However, unlike the classic tragedy, this film reimagines a reality where the pair survive but are still separated due to societal norms, highlighting the profound effect of loss on both their individual journeys.
Veer Zaara
Another classic Indian masterpiece, Yash Chopra’s Veer Zaara, follows the epic romance between Veer, an Indian Air Force officer, and Zaara, a Pakistani woman, who are separated from each other due to border issues. Spanning over several painfully long decades, the film is an inspiring tale of resilience, sacrifice, and patience, all culminating towards a heartwarming and tearful reunion.
Silsila
Despite being filmed almost two decades apart, Silsila and Devdas have a lot in common. Both films center around the themes of unrequited love, self-indulgence, and despair. Set in the 1980’s, Silsila explores the themes of infidelity, societal obligations, and loneliness in a time where monogamy and marital-duties outweighed the desires of personal will in India. The film delves into the complexities of human relationships and the sacrifices made in the name of duty and honor.
Umrao Jaan
If you loved the larger than life sets, intricate dance sequences, and grand costumes in Devdas, you especially enjoy Umrao Jaan. Set in the 1840s, the film follows the life of a breathtakingly beautiful courtesan as she falls in love with a powerful Sultan, and deals with the repercussions of unrequited love. The film is a cultural masterpiece which went on to win four awards at the 29th National Film Awards, including Best Art Direction, Best Music Direction, Best Playback Singer, and Best Actress for Rekha.
Bajirao Mastani
Another historical romance by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Bajirao Mastani shines a light on the love story of Peshwa Bajirao and his second wife Mastani, and the profound impact this relationship has on his first wife Kashibai. Maintaining his signature style of grandeur, intricate storytelling, and stunning visual aesthetics, Bajirao Mastani promises a captivating and emotionally charged viewing experience.
Where to watch movies like Devdas online
Interested in checking out more movies similar to Devdas? Scroll down below to view the full list and find out more details specific to each film’s plot, casting, and streaming details!
