Top 9 Bollywood Movies That Beautifully Captured the Older Generation Rather Than Stereotyping Them

When it comes to portraying the older generation on the silver screen, Bollywood films frequently use stereotypes. They are either extremely pious, such as the kirtan-singing daadis in Kal Ho Naa Ho, or as the modern daadi from Vicky Donor, who sips whiskey every evening. If these fail, they are portrayed as frail and fragile.

A recurring theme in most films is how the older generation is used as a prop with a one-dimensional character arc. They only serve one purpose: to assist the leader. However, there are films in which the older generation is depicted realistically. These films redefine what it means to be old while also accurately tracing their personal journeys.

Here are nine films that move away from stereotyping the older generation and instead portray them as complete human beings with flaws and perfections of their own.

Check the List Below :

1. Uunchai (2022)

This film, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Boman Irani, and Anupam Kher, takes us into the lives of three elderly friends. The friends decide to trek to Everest Base Camp to fulfil their friend’s final wish. During the journey, these friends open up about their personal, emotional, and spiritual lives. They overcome their physical limitations and discover what true freedom entails.

2. Sharmaji Namkeen (2022)

Society frequently tells the elderly that after a certain age, they should confine themselves to their homes. That is exactly what happens in this film. A 58-year-old retired man discovers his true calling in the kitchen. He discovers this passion while working as a private chef. His talent and ambitions, however, are dismissed not only by society but also by his son.

3. Saand Ki Aankh (2019)

Two women in their 60s discover their shooting abilities by chance. Chandro and Prakashi want to pursue their dreams, so they enter various competitions. However, there is a cost to this. They live in a patriarchal society where the rules and laws that women must follow are clearly defined. Despite the inappropriate casting, the film gets the point across.

4. 102 Not Out (2018)

A 102-year-old man hopes to live long enough to become the oldest living male. He wishes to live his life as a child rather than in despair. He seeks ways to bring joy into the life of his 75-year-old son. The film explores how the older generation learns to live their lives only after reaching a certain age. The film’s lead actors are Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor.

5. Rajma Chawal (2018)

There are times when a father’s relationship with his child becomes strained for a variety of reasons. A father in this film hopes to repair his relationship with his resentful son. The father wishes to communicate with his son via social media, but the son has blocked him. To communicate with his son, the father assumes the persona of a woman. The emotional layers of this distraught father are explored in this comedy film.

6. Badhaai Ho (2018)

When it comes to s*x and pregnancy, our society has very conflicting ideas. A middle-aged woman becomes pregnant and becomes the source of embarrassment for her entire family. Her sons begin to avoid her parents, and her mother-in-law becomes visibly upset. The film explores an important theme: how we view sex and intimacy as something only reserved for newlywed couples. It also highlights our reluctance to acknowledge our parents’ sexual activity. The film’s lead actors are Neena Gupta and Gajraj Rao.

7. Khujli (2017)

This short film, starring Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta, explores how two middle-aged parents try to understand modern-day definitions of intimacy. When the mother discovers a pair of handcuffs in her son’s room, the conversation begins. What follows is hilarious as the parents attempt to navigate their desires with limited understanding and resources.

8. Mukti Bhawan (2016)

This comedy-drama centers on Daya (a 77-year-old man) and his son, Rajiv. Daya hopes to find salvation in Varanasi. His obedient son is forced to leave everything behind and accompany his father on the journey. The film delves into themes such as companionship in old age and the relationship that parents have with their children when they are adamant about something.

9. Piku (2015)

Bhaskar was unlike any parent we would see in Bollywood films before. While he is reliant on his daughter, he is her most powerful soldier. He frequently tells Piku that a woman does not require a man to be complete. He does become irrational at times, but this is due to his experiences. The film, starring Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Irrfan Khan, is a joyride.

What other films you’d add to this list?