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A Tribute to Bollywood's Memorable Dads

Bollywood has often showcased melodramatic maternal figures, yet it is the fathers—whether stern, nurturing, selfless, or flawed—who have subtly secured a special place in our hearts. This Father's Day, we take a moment to reflect on some of the most unforgettable father figures in cinema, from strict disciplinarians to affectionate single dads who openly express their emotions.

Whether set in a traditional akhara in Haryana, a bustling train station in Punjab, or a dramatic courtroom in Ujjain, these cinematic fathers illustrate that behind every strong child often stands an equally strong parent. Here’s a salute to the Bollywood dads who have made us laugh, cry, and believe in the profound bond of paternal love.

Ja Simran Ja… Live Your Life

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge remains a benchmark in Bollywood history. This film not only set the standard for romance among the youth of the '90s but also introduced two powerful father figures. On one hand, we have the amiable Dharamvir Malhotra (Anupam Kher), who is willing to go to great lengths to fulfill his son's desires. On the other hand, there’s the strict Chaudhary Baldev Singh (Amrish Puri), who values promises over his daughter's wishes.

The film's climax at the train station beautifully resolves the conflict. As the train departs, he releases his daughter's hand, uttering, “Ja Simran jaa… Jee le apni zindagi.” The fact that this line remains a part of everyday conversation three decades later, and that T-shirts featuring this dialogue are available, speaks volumes about its impact!

Holding Your Hand, Teaching You to Walk

In a brief yet powerful role, Rajit Kapur portrays Hidayat Khan, an Indian intelligence officer who embodies patriotism like no other. As he nears the end of his life due to cancer, he urges his daughter Sehmat (Alia Bhatt) to continue his mission. After a quick training session at RAW, she is sent to Pakistan as Iqbal Syed’s (Vicky Kaushal) wife.

While Alia's performance steals the show, Rajit's poignant role, especially during the emotional farewell in the song Dilbaro, resonates deeply.

You Are My Heart, You Are My Life

Another classic from 1995 that remains relevant today is Akele Hum Akele Tum. This film highlights the struggles of single parenthood, with Aamir Khan portraying Rohit Kumar, a passionate singer and devoted father.

The emotionally charged courtroom scenes serve as a tribute to a father's love, making it one of the few films in Indian cinema where the father's role is given equal weight.

Bapu, Harmful for Health

This Bapu may initially seem 'harmful' for health, but he is one of Bollywood's most memorable characters. Inspired by the true story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat, who trained his daughters to become international athletes, Dangal is a celebrated sports drama. Aamir Khan's portrayal of a father who dreams of Olympic glory through his daughters is both humorous and inspiring.

The climax, where he listens to the national anthem while locked in a room, is truly goosebump-inducing!

When Anjali Khanna Becomes Anjali Sharma

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai features another single father from the '90s, Rahul Khanna, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who raises his daughter Anjali (Sana Saeed) with love alongside her grandmother. This film is as much about father-daughter bonds as it is about romance.

Fathers are increasingly taking center stage in films. Champak Bansal (Irrfan Khan) in Angrezi Medium goes to great lengths for his daughter's aspirations, while Kanti Sharan Mudgal (Pankaj Tripathi) fights to restore his son's dignity after a school expulsion.

A Spectrum of Fatherhood

Fathers in Bollywood have been portrayed in various shades. From the quirky Bhashkor Banerjee in Piku to the idealistic Vishwanath in Munna Bhai M.B.B.S., and the self-centered Kamal Mehra in Dil Dhadakne Do to the progressive Anup Saxena in The Kargil Girl, the list is extensive. Who has been your favorite?

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