SEVEN STAGES OF love

SUFI THOUGHT HAS UNWITTINGLY INSPIRED BOLLYWOOD ROMANCES DOWN THE DECADES. SHYMAL SHELAR CONNECTS THE DOTS

- SHYMAL SHELAR

Long before love was measured in quick replies and an aesthetically curated profile, Bollywood understood the nuances of love in its purest form. Love is not a fleeting emotion that is lost and found. It already exists within us. As Sufi poet Rumi writes, "Lovers don't finally meet somewhere. They've been with each other all along." Love, then, is a journey of heart and the soul that unfolds in seven stages. And Hindi cinema, knowingly or not, has portrayed love beautifully traversing these divine stages. In the wake of the month of love, here's exploring how Bollywood movies have traced this timeless journey of love.

1 Dilkashi

This is the first pull of love where feelings are awakened without complete knowledge. It's love at first sight. Here, love blooms softly, almost shyly. It carries innocence, secrecy, and quiet wonder. Nothing is confessed yet everything is felt. Hindi cinema has captured this tender beginning in many poignant sequences.

Set against the picturesque landscapes, Kashmir Ki Kali (1964) presents a romantic daydream. In the film, Shammi Kapoor courts Sharmila Tagore with teasing glances and flirtatious mischief. Sharmila Tagore’s coy smiles at Shammi Kapoor's musical confessions create a love that feels light and effortless. Similarly, in Bobby (1973), when Rishi Kapoor sees Dimple Kapadia in the doorway, there is an instant spark. The moment is electric. He invents excuses just to see her again. Their love blooms impulsively cutting across class divides. Both films paint an evocative picture of youthful passion and love despite differences in economic backgrounds. They lean into the idea of love that is fearless of consequences.