Credit: Dariusz Sankowski – Unsplash
The movie industry is all about escapism. For about three hours, moviegoers get to forget the hassles of their daily routines and dream of romance and adventure. While films stir the imagination, they also take audiences to awe-inspiring places. And many a Bollywood director has brought exotic locations to the silver screen. So here are five Bollywood flicks that will take you to faraway lands.
Queen (2013)
Travelling alone takes some courage. And for women, even more so. This comedy-drama, thus, showed many Indian women how to explore the world on their own terms. Directed by Vikas Bahl, Queen tells the story of Rani (Kangna Ranaut). After her fiancé calls off their wedding a day before the ceremony, Rani makes the bold decision to go on her honeymoon as planned. Except she’ll be travelling solo. As she wanders through Paris and Amsterdam, she gradually learns to take control over her life choices and find her true herself, freed from patriarchal constraints and expectations.
This tale of self-discovery was hailed as a ground-breaking feminist film. Critics also lauded the movie for its strong acting and narration, with publications like Cosmopolitan crowning it one of the best pictures in Indian cinema. To top it off, Queen had us aching to jump on the first plane to Europe!
Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara (2011)
Are you yearning for a road trip through southern Europe? Then this buddy road movie has got you covered. The film unfolds as three childhood friends hail to Spain for a three-week trip. Portrayed by Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, and Hrithik Roshan, all three bachelors set out on an epic journey of skydiving, deep-sea diving, and bull-chasing. Their friendship only grows stronger as they live every day to the fullest, while they make life-changing encounters along the way.
Both a critical and commercial hit, Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara also boosted Indian tourism in Spain. The trio’s journey takes them from Barcelona to Pamplona, with some gorgeous stop-overs in Seville and along the Costa Brava. The movie even features some idiosyncratic sequences at the Tomatina festival in Buñol. So, are you set on “seizing the day?” Stream this stellar comedy on platforms like Amazon Prime or Netflix. Then rent a van and hit some picturesque Spanish sites.
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Tamasha (2015)
Europe is a favoured destination for many Bollywood filmmakers, this romantic comedy-drama flick being no exception. Tamasha takes place in Corsica, a French island located south of the Côte-d’Azur and north of Sardinia. And Indian audiences were mesmerized by the sheer beauty of this Mediterranean gem. From white sandy beaches and rocky outcrops to medieval towns, the Island of Beauty stole the show.
Apart from these beguiling sights, Tamasha was praised for its acting with Deepika Padukone even securing a Stardust Award for Best Actress. The film also charmed critics and viewers with its non-linear storytelling. And to further enchant travel enthusiasts, the romance culminating in Tokyo only elevates the movie’s multicultural atmosphere.
Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai (2000)
Hrithik Roshan’s prolific career started in front of his father’s camera with Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai, an epic romantic action film starring Ameesha Patel. With a narrative arc encapsulating romance, thrill, comedy, and tragedy, this exhilarating Bollywood motion picture earned a record-breaking number of awards. And the dazzling landscapes of New Zealand take centre stage in the film’s second leg.
The snow-capped mountains of Otago, south of Queenstown, provided a striking backdrop that had Bollywood fans flock to the area. Its scenic hiking trails are heaven for both movie buffs and outdoor lovers. The area boasts some thrilling activities too, whether on a rafting boat or at the poker table. Indeed, the nearby Dunedin is home to one of only six casinos in the country. Alternatively, NZ gamblers can turn to online casinos with the help of websites like Casinoreviews.net.nz. Experts have tested dozens of casinos to publish unbiased, trust-worthy reviews. Their ratings encompass everything from customer support to bonuses and deposit processes. Thus, Kiwi players are sure to access the best slots and table games on their device of choice.
Looking to compliment your bucket list or plan your next trip? Then these Bollywood classics are a perfect introduction to some fantastic destinations worldwide. So, are you on your way to the closest airport already?