In 2000, Bollywood saw a change. That year marked the start of a new millennium, and we saw in that which came a mix of romance, comedy, action and also what you may term as very meaningful stories. While we recall the big hits of the year, there were also a few that didn’t get the recognition they deserved, which, in my view, did great work. In looking back, it is like that was the year that Bollywood really began to transform into what it is today. If you are a fan of the classics, do yourself a favour and add these films to your watch list.
- Hey Ram
Directed by Kamal Haasan, Hey Ram was a very bold film for its time. Set at the time of India’s partition and the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi, the film delves into themes of revenge, grief, and redemption with great depth. In terms of performance, it features the likes of Kamal Haasan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Naseeruddin Shah. Though it may not have done well at the box office at the time, the storytelling and visual elements of the film have over the years grown to have a cult status.
- Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar
This biographical film, which presents the life story of Dr B. R. Ambedkar, the man behind the Indian Constitution, plays out. Mammootty does a great job that is hard to forget; he brings out the best in terms of the struggle as well as the success of what is, to date, India’s greatest leader. The film is also put forth as a fine piece of work which is a gem in Indian cinema.
- Hera Pheri
Few of the Bollywood comedies have aged as well as Hera Pheri did. In Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal, we got characters which are still remembered for their dialogues, which today rule social media and memes. As for me, this is one of those films I can watch again and again without getting bored; in fact, it gets funnier each time.
- Hari-Bhari
Shyam Benegal is in the director’s chair for Hari-Bhari, a thought-provoking drama which brings to the fore issues of women’s rights, identity and social pressure in rural India. Shabana Azmi leads the cast in a very honest and sensitive portrayal which in turn makes this one of that year’s most socially relevant films.
- Pukar
Starring Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit in lead roles, it also sees the duo play out a story of patriotism, romance and suspense in the box of an engaging thriller. Also backed by A. R. Rahman’s soulful soundtrack, which is a hit, the film is a standout for its very emotional performances and strong message on duty and sacrifice.
- Mission Kashmir
- Astitva
- Fiza
- Josh
- Jungle
- Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai
Conclusion
Bollywood in 2000 saw great cinema which wasn’t defined by box office success. From the classic comedies of Hera Pheri to the in-depth dramas of Hey Ram and Hari-Bhari, the year had it all for the moviegoer. Also, over two decades later, we still see these films as relevant, which is why 2000 was a milestone in Bollywood’s history. Whether you are seeing these classics for the first time or rewatching your old favourites, you are in for a great time.
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