7 Bollywood films on Netflix that are based on books

Numerous Bollywood movies have produced fascinating book adaptations while drawing influence from literature over the years. Here is A  selection of Hindi movies that are based on books that you can see on Netflix, whether the books are contemporary or old.

1. Kai Po Che

Kai Po Che is based on the life of three friends—Ishaan, Omi, and Govind—who decide to establish a sports academy in Ahmedabad. The three friends are inspired by Chetan Bhagat’s book The 3 Mistakes of My Life. The story examines their friendship in light of incidents like the 2002 riots and the disaster in Gujarat.

2. 7 Khoon Maaf

7 Khoon Maaf, which is based on Ruskin Bond’s short novel Susanna’s Seven Husbands, explores the enigmatic and sinister life of a woman who marries seven times, each of whom passes away unexpectedly. The movie delves into Susanna’s emotional state and her quest for love.

3. Haider

Haider, a 1990s adaption of William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, is set against the backdrop of the conflict in Kashmir. The movie centers on Haider, a young man who, while searching for his father, returns to Kashmir and unearths sinister family secrets. Many people consider Vishal Bhardwaj’s Hamlet adaption to be among the best literary adaptations in Bollywood.

4. Gangubai Kathiawadi

Gangubai Kathiawadi, which is based on Hussain Zaidi’s novel Mafia Queens of Mumbai, narrates the tale of a young girl who is sold into prostitution and becomes powerful in Kamathipura, a red-light district in Mumbai. Her transformation from a victim to a strong advocate for women’s rights is followed throughout the film.

5. 12th Fail

The movie centers on the journey of Manoj Kumar Sharma, a man from a lowly family who tries to pass the UPSC exam. It is based on Anurag Pathak’s book 12th Fail. The story focuses on the difficulties he encounters, his mistakes, and his eventual achievement. The portrayal of Manoj by Vikrant Massey is outstanding, and the movie also pays close homage to the original work.

6. Bareilly Ki Barfi

Bareilly Ki Barfi, which is based on the French novel The Ingredients of Love, is about Bitti, a free-spirited young woman who travels to a small Indian village to meet the author of a book she finds inspiring. This leads to a lovely triangle of affection. The book’s main ideas are adapted for the Indian setting in the movie.

7. The Girl on the Train

This Bollywood remake, which is based on Paula Hawkins’ best-selling book The Girl on the Train, centers on the alcoholic Mira, who develops an obsession with a couple she meets on her way to work. When she becomes entangled in a murder mystery, her life takes a terrible turn. Although it’s not the best adaption, the movie offers a unique perspective on Hawkins’ thriller.