what are the best emotional family drama movies like baghban?
Looking for films that tug at your heartstrings and explore complex family dynamics? If you loved the emotional journey of Baghban, you're in the right place. Here's a list of compelling Bollywood dramas that offer similar themes of love, sacrifice, and relationships.



Baghban struck a chord with millions for its poignant depiction of parental sacrifice and the changing dynamics within a family. The emotional family drama genre in Bollywood holds a special place, often reflecting societal values and the intricate relationships that form the backbone of Indian families. These films delve into themes like the responsibilities of children towards parents, intergenerational misunderstandings, the strength of marital bonds, and the unconditional love that binds families together, sometimes under immense pressure. They are not just stories; they are mirrors reflecting the joys, sorrows, and complexities of real-life family life. From the grandeur of multi-generational sagas to more intimate portraits of modern families facing unique challenges, this genre offers a rich tapestry of human emotion. Films in this vein often feature memorable soundtracks that amplify the emotional impact and iconic performances that stay with you long after the credits roll. If you appreciate narratives that explore love, loss, reconciliation, and the enduring power of family ties, this list offers a deep dive into some of the most beloved and impactful emotional dramas in Bollywood, continuing the legacy that films like Baghban helped define.
14. Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan (2020)
This film is a lighthearted and progressive take on same-sex relationships and family acceptance in India. It follows a gay couple and their struggle to convince the family of one of the partners. While it involves family dynamics and generational differences, the central theme is LGBTQ+ acceptance, making it different from the parental and intergenerational relationship focus of 'Baghban'. It's a significant film for bringing conversations about homosexuality into mainstream Bollywood cinema with humor and heart.

13. Dear Zindagi (2016)
Dear zindagi is a coming-of-age story focusing on Kaira, a cinematographer, and her journey of self-discovery as she deals with past trauma and relationship issues with the help of a therapist, Dr. Jehangir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan). While family dynamics are part of Kaira's struggles, the film's central theme is mental health and finding one's own path, differing from 'Baghban's' focus on parental struggles and family obligations. Directed by Gauri Shinde (of 'English Vinglish' fame), it's a sensitive portrayal of seeking help and finding inner peace.

12. My Name Is Khan (2010)
Directed by Karan Johar, my name is khan stars Shah Rukh Khan as Rizwan Khan, a Muslim man with Asperger's Syndrome, and Kajol as his wife. The film follows Rizwan's journey across America to meet the President, aiming to clear his name after a tragedy. While it tackles significant social and political themes, it also has an underlying current of family love, loss, and resilience, though its primary focus is not the intergenerational family drama typical of 'Baghban'. Shah Rukh Khan's performance in this film is widely acclaimed as one of his best.

11. Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)
Another Karan Johar directorial, kabhi alvida naa kehna, explores the complexities of marital relationships and infidelity. While not directly about the parent-child bond like 'Baghban', it deals with the emotional fallout of broken relationships and the impact on families, including children. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta, and Abhishek Bachchan, it was a bold film for its time, discussing themes often considered taboo. It explores the idea that sometimes, saying goodbye is necessary for finding happiness, even if it's unconventional.

10. Veer-Zaara (2004)
Yash Chopra's timeless romance, veer-zaara, tells the story of an Indian Air Force pilot and a Pakistani woman separated by circumstances. While its core is a cross-border love story, the film also touches upon themes of duty, sacrifice, and familial honor, particularly how individual choices impact families. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta, with appearances by Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini (the lead pair from 'Baghban') as Veer's aunt and uncle. The film is a tribute to cross-border love and features music composed by the late Madan Mohan, recreated by his son Sanjeev Kohli.

9. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
While primarily a romantic drama, kal ho naa ho also features strong family elements and deals with themes of sacrifice, love, and making the most of life, which gives it an emotional core similar to 'Baghban'. Set in New York, it stars Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan. The film features a complex family dynamic involving a single mother, her children, and a grandmother. It's known for its witty dialogues, catchy music, and heartfelt moments that explore relationships beyond just romance. Did you know? The film's script was written by Karan Johar, who also wrote 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'.

8. We Are Family (2010)
A Bollywood adaptation of the Hollywood film 'Stepmom', we are family explores the challenging yet ultimately loving dynamics of a blended family. Kajol plays a terminally ill mother who wants her ex-husband's new partner (Kareena Kapoor) to become a mother figure to her children. It's an emotional story about sacrifice, acceptance, and redefining what constitutes a family, resonating with the themes of love and relationships found in 'Baghban'. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, it's a tear-jerker that celebrates the different forms motherhood can take.

7. Badhaai Ho (2018)
Badhaai ho is a delightful and unconventional family comedy-drama that tackles a slightly different, yet equally impactful, family scenario compared to 'Baghban'. It revolves around a middle-aged couple who get unexpectedly pregnant, and how their adult children and society react to this 'embarrassment'. It's a humorous yet sensitive look at age, societal norms, and the complexities of family acceptance. The film won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. It's a refreshing take on family dynamics and proves that love and support are needed at every stage of life.

6. English Vinglish (2012)
Sridevi's triumphant comeback film, english vinglish, is a beautiful story about a middle-aged Indian woman who takes an English speaking course to gain respect from her family. While not a direct parallel to 'Baghban's' plot, it shares the theme of a parent seeking dignity and understanding within their own home and the ripple effect it has on family relationships. It's a sensitive portrayal of self-worth, marriage, and the generation gap, particularly the subtle dismissals faced by homemakers. The film was inspired by director Gauri Shinde's own mother. It's a heartwarming and empowering watch.

5. Paa (2009)
For a unique and deeply affecting take on the parent-child relationship, check out paa. Amitabh Bachchan stars as Auro, a 12-year-old boy suffering from Progeria, a rare genetic disorder that causes rapid aging, while Abhishek Bachchan plays his estranged father, a young politician. Directed by R. Balki, the film explores their journey of connection and understanding despite the unusual circumstances. Amitabh Bachchan's transformation into Auro is astounding and earned him a National Film Award. It's a touching film that highlights the unconditional nature of love and the importance of cherishing every moment.

4. The Sky Is Pink (2019)
Inspired by a true story, the sky is pink is an incredibly moving and emotional family drama that will resonate with fans of 'Baghban's' focus on parental love and sacrifice. It narrates the journey of Aisha Chaudhary, a young girl with pulmonary fibrosis, told from her perspective as she watches her parents navigate life, love, and grief while dealing with her illness. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Farhan Akhtar deliver powerful performances as the devoted parents. The film beautifully captures the strength of familial bonds in the face of adversity and celebrates life even amidst sorrow. It's a story about living, not just dying, and the enduring power of a family's love.

3. Kapoor & Sons (2016)
Dive into the intricate and often messy dynamics of a modern Indian family with kapoor & sons. While 'Baghban' focuses on the parent's perspective, this film gives a raw and realistic look at the secrets, tensions, and unspoken love within a seemingly ordinary family unit, centered around two brothers and their parents and grandfather. Directed by Shakun Batra, it features brilliant performances from Rishi Kapoor (again!), Ratna Pathak Shah, Rajat Kapoor, Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, and Alia Bhatt. The film masterfully balances drama, humor, and poignant moments, revealing how family bonds are tested but ultimately enduring. A fun fact: Rishi Kapoor's look as the grandfather took hours of prosthetic makeup each day!

2. 102 Not Out (2018)
For a heartwarming and often hilarious take on the father-son relationship that echoes the intergenerational themes of 'Baghban', look no further than 102 not out. Starring the incomparable Amitabh Bachchan as a spirited 102-year-old who wants to live life to the fullest and Rishi Kapoor as his melancholic 75-year-old son, this film is a delightful exploration of aging, happiness, and challenging conventional roles within a family. It's based on a Gujarati play of the same name. The dynamic between Bachchan and Kapoor is simply magical, showcasing their legendary chemistry. It's a beautiful reminder that it's never too late to change your perspective and find joy, regardless of age.

1. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)
If you loved the emotional rollercoaster of 'Baghban', you absolutely must watch Karan Johar's epic family saga, kabhi khushi kabhie gham. This film is the gold standard for Bollywood family dramas, exploring themes of tradition, respect for elders, and the deep, sometimes challenging, bond between parents and children. It features a legendary ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor. The film's scale is massive, the emotions are high, and the music is iconic. It delves into the complexities of family pride versus personal happiness and the journey towards reconciliation. Did you know? This was one of the first Indian films to have a major theatrical release in Germany, becoming a surprise hit there!
