The five basic physiological needs which are food, water, air, shelter, and physical intimacy are obligatory for survival, the sixth need which involuntarily finds its place in the evolution of mankind is the need to regenerate, recreate and refresh one.

The first form of entertainment was when early humans imitated one another actions and displayed them to the other members of their tribe, which gradually led to the evolution of plays and then on with the advent of British rule with the invention of cameras made way for moving motion pictures.

India is a land of diversity three things that cut across all boundaries are firstly the love for food, the zeal for cricket, and the vibe of cinema.

Hindi cinema has seen an evolution over the ages, Cinema as a means of communication manages to achieve what social welfare personnel has been struggling to achieve even after years of effort. For example – The Movie Padman preaching about the importance of menstrual hygiene was released to make women and men aware of the stigma attached to it, the movie also led to the GST being scraped off the sanitary napkins then.

Hindi movies are still a work in progress but they are in their way a masterpiece, the evolution of Hindi movies dates back when while colonial rule when the first feature film was made in monochrome and now decades later we see a plethora of colors playing on the screen.

Here are a few fresh as ever Hindi movies which are relevant even in modern times and will remain relevant in the present times and shall remain relevant in the coming times as well.

The first movie on our list of Old Hindi movies is the all-time cult classic

1.       MOTHER INDIA

“It is the same water that softens the potato and hardens the egg “, Mother India as a movie justifies the same. Even relevant in modern times it showcases the journey of a single mother struggling to raise both her kids, unable to help one of them falling prey to their circumstances. 

Mother India continues to remind people to follow their conscience even after having hit rock bottom. Sunil Dutt as Birju portrays the rebel dacoit carrying a sense of dictatorial valor. 

Rajendra Kumar is the ideal son, time and again providing his mother hope and confronting his brother does it with a sense of dedication as that of any elder sibling. Nargis jee as the mother portrays the helplessness, yet the fighting spirit of a single parent in a gruesome world.

2.       MUGHAL-E-AZAM

This classic old Hindi movie often leaves us to question the existence of Anarkali, because as kids we never heard or read about her in our textbooks. Director K Asif's brainchild continues to inspire lovers to fight for the cause of love. 

The gravity exerted by Shahenshaah Akbar, the helplessness of Prince Salim and the lovesick Anarkali played by Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, and, Madhubala respectively keep the characters afresh even years after its release.

3.       MERA NAAM JOKER

This old Hindi movie is something that will always be synonymous with circus clowns, has managed to boost up people with the age-old saying “It is never the end” because the show must go on. 

The clown played by Raj Kapoor showcases the joy of giving which is the best of all joys. Raju played by Raj Kapoor is not once bitten; twice shy, he allows the women he has fallen for to prioritize their well-being over his unrequited love. 

Yet Raju being the one with the larger heart continues to do what he does best, make people laugh because he believes there is nothing sacred in this world except laughter.

4.       NEEL KAMAL 1968

Love has no boundaries, marriage dissolves with time, love which is god ages gracefully like wine- Anonymous. The story begins with a gifted artist named Chitrasen played by Rajkumar being bricked alive for openly having professed his love for the royal princess Neel kamal played by Waheeda Rahman.

The rest follows the transfer of Neel kamal's soul centuries later into a modern-day girl Sita's body. Neel kamal's connection with Chitrasen eventually gives rise to her sleepwalking problem and restoring old dungeons. Neel Kamal also addresses the problem of mental health issues and the stereotype attached to the same. 

Sita's condition of sleepwalking and her father trying to keep her illness a secret is a reference to the modern times where people are ashamed to address their problems related to their psych.

5.       PAKHEEZAH 1972

Pakheezah translates to pure, purity which is not defined by a woman’s virginity or the choices she has made in her life but by the purity of her soul and the beautiful heart that she carries within. 

Pakheezah, the courtesan played by Meena Kumari jee manages to achieve the dream many courtesans have a bleak hope of achieving which is to be married to the man of her dreams. 

Pakheezah as a movie was way ahead of its time; it showcases the stigma attached to sex workers and their struggle while trying to find love and lead a usual life.

6.       SATYAM SHIVAM SUNDARAM 1978

Beauty is there but skin deep for real beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, Satyam Shivam Sundaram conveys the same, this old Hindi movie was many ways ahead of its time as it spoke about body positivity, acceptance, and self-worth. 

The story is about Rupa played by Zeenat Aman who falls prey to misfortune and has her face disfigured, rupa thus is labeled as a jinx and is boycotted by her village folk. 

However for the damsel in distress, there is Rajeev a well-educated engineer who leaves all the girls of the village drooling, Rajeev however unaware of Rupa's disfigured face refuses to accept her after she reveals to him her true self. 

Satyam Shivam Sundaram deals with the higher message of having a pure heart, devoid of ill thoughts, a clear mind, and forgiving nature what determines the true component of beauty the physical elements being transient.

7.       UMRAO JAAN  1981

Unlike Pakheezah this old Hindi movie states the journey of a seven-year-old girl named Amiran who is kidnapped and forced into the trade of sex, the rest that follows is Amiran's story of finding love, in the nawab Farukh sheiks company, losing it to the headstrong ways of the society and again to the headstrong ways of the society and finding love again in the dacoit Faiz Ali played by Raj Babbar but losing it again to circumstances. 

Pakeheezah deals with the theme of the purity that lies within a woman’s heart, whereas Amiran is left deserted by her lover, society, and family members to fend for herself and forced to return to the brothel left with no choice.

8.       NIKAAH 1982

Nikaah translates into the word "contract "a marital contract between two people as per the Islamic culture, this particular old Hindi movie a BR Chopra masterpiece however is a comment on the rigid patriarchal Sharia laws. 

Nilofer played by Salma Agha is destined to marry Wasim played by Deepak Parashar her first cousin a well-to-do Nawaab by their parents, which their children gladly accept. Nilofre waiting to be rescued from the shackles of loneliness because of Salim's workaholic nature is a reminder of today's modern-day culture. 

Haider played by Raj Babbar willing to accept Nilofer despite her "Divorcee " status gives the viewers hope that the world is not an evil place. Salma trying to move on from her traumatic past and adapt to her new life is an exact depiction of modern-day relationships. 

However, the choice is left for Salma to make, the return back to her ex and give him a second chance or accept the man who has accepted her despite her being an outcast by society owing to her broken marriage.

9.       SATTE PE SATTA 1982

To live life to the fullest" the above saying defines the real essence of the movie "Satte pe Satta ". 

The story revolves around wild, uncouth uncultured brothers and their journey to finding and valuing love, this old Hindi movie however very strongly carries the element of "Seven brides for seven brothers" and has a lot in common, Amitabh Bachan as the elder brother, Hema Malini as the sister in law trying her level best to groom the wild men is a hilarious watch.

“Hum toh saath rang hai, yeh jahan rangeen banaenge “sung by all the seven brothers along with their eldest sibling truly talks about the film as well.

10.   ANDHA KANOON 1983

"Love and justice are similar because both can be bought." The movie which translates into "Blind justice “very strongly conveys the same message. 

The story talks about a family whose elder daughter has been raped, which is the reason for the covet aggression of the rest of the two siblings of the family, Vijay Kumar played by Rajnikanth and Durga Devi Singh played by Hema Malini, the former having lost his faith in the law, the latter being employed by the same. 

The very same vengeance is bought to action with two siblings confronting one another with their ideals in place and Jan Nisar Akhtar Khan played by Amitabh Bachan acting as a catalyst that forms the twist in the tale. 

Reena Roy, Prem Chopra, Danny Denzongpa, and Pran in supporting roles bring out their best in the meager screen time allotted to them.

11.   MASSOOM 1983

Massoom as a Hindi word translates into the meaning "Innocent", the movie also raises a question in the minds of the viewers as to who is innocent, whether it is the illegitimate child born out of wedlock or is it the married man who got carried away. 

Director Shekhar Kapur carefully explores the theme of child psychology, DK played by Naseeruddin shah is torn between two worlds his marital life and the world he has built for himself outside his marriage. 

Rahul played Jugal Hansraj, making the viewer empathize with the child as he gets caught in the web of complex human emotions. Indu played by Shabana Azmi trying her best to conceal her feelings from the illegitimate child makes it relatable. 

The illegitimate child who was like sticking out like a sore toe to the legally wedded wife manages to cement his place in the family her headstrongness and anger all melting away before the child's innocence.

12.   SADMA 1983

"If you really desire certain things you have to let it go" this might not apply to this old Hindi movie which translates into the word "Shock." 

The movie begins with a shock for a 20 yr old Nehalata meeting with an accident and temporarily losing her memory which leads her to behave and respond like a toddler, Nehalata now has the mind of a toddler and is unaware of the evil ways of the world is sold to a brothel where fate brings her accidentally brings her before Somprakash, a school teacher in Ooty. 

The rest that follows is how Nehalata now Reshmi's childlike innocence managing to kindle a romance between the two individuals is what forms the rest of the story. 

Sadma as a movie talks about the trauma we all suffer daily, a trauma we all suffer upon realization, a trauma we all at some point time in our lives encounter when we fail to see the Good Samaritan sent for us by someone above.

13.   SAARANSH 1984

When Pandora opened the box all that remained behind to keep good in this world was hope, the movie Saaransh addresses the existence of hope, the story talks about that very fair hope who remained behind in this evil world. 

This old Hindi movie narrates the tale of BV pradhan who is still recovering from the loss of his only son in the USA directed by Mahesh Bhatt the story deals with pradhan trying to find another reason to lead on with his life, life is transient and there lies its beauty, the only permanent thing is the good deeds that we leave behind and the memories that we make, B.V Pradhan and his wife Sujata letting go of the only hope of their son's retinue deals with a higher message of letting go of attachments to be able to move on with ones spiritual journey that happens after death.

14.   RAAM TERI GANGA MAILI 1985

A river has its organic way of flowing, it washes away all that comes in its way and sometimes even exposes the filth lying deep within the layers of soil. 

Ram Teri Ganga Maili as a movie uses the river Ganga as a metaphor to compare its journey with a village mountain girl of the same name. 

Ganga falls in love with Rajeev a well-spoken individual and consummates her relationship, the rest of the movie showcases the river and the girls' journey from the mountains of Rishikesh to the city of Calcutta exposing the filth and hypocrisy of the modernized world. 

Ganga being Maili or dirty is a metaphor for how the evil ways of the society compel a woman to make the choices she never wanted to, Ganga being Maili may also refer to the loss of values and cultural belongingness in a modernized society.

15.   NASEEB APNA APNA 1986

Beauty is what remains after the body falls prey to aging, the movie Naseeb Apna Apna deals with the same theme, the story is about a village girl named Chando played by Radhika, simple, plain looking with a weird hairdo, Chando is married to her father's acquaintances son Kishan played by Rishi Kapoor who is ashamed of his bride, he casts her away as he is ashamed of her physical appearance, Chando being one of the larger heart allows Kishan to lead a happy married life with his beloved Radha remaining witness to their romance yet with a strong front concealing her marital status. 

This old Hindi movie deals with the theme of infidelity, bigotry, and one man's inability to look beyond a woman's physical appearance which is the purity of her soul.

16.   MR INDIA 1987

"Zindagi ki Yahee reet hai haar ke Baat hi jeet hai " 

This particular song from the movie Mr. India may be as well talking about the script, the movie begins with Arun, played by Anil Kapoor an orphan boy who takes children like him into a shelter and does odd jobs for their well-being. 

Arun however is threatened by the local goons who wish to take control of his house for their selfish purpose; the rest of the movie is about Arun trying to defend his "family "comprising of Calendar, a local help played by Satish Kaushik, and the children that he has taken into a shelter with the help of a watch left by his late father that lets him be invisible except for in red light. 

The enthusiastic journalist played by Sridevi and her adamant boss played by Anu Kapoor trying to fix his landline lend a comic element to the script. Amrish puri as the iconic "Mogambo" makes you empathize with Arun's character and his cause to do good for society. 

Mr. India was the first old Hindi movie to introduce the concept of superhero to the Indian cinema, simultaneously giving Bollywood one of its finest all-time evergreen actresses Sri Devi.

17.   QAYAMAT SE QAYAMAT TAK 1988

This particular old Hindi movie has an inherent element of the Shakespearian masterpiece "Romeo and Juliet", the story being the age-old feud coming in way of two lovers Raj Singh played by Aamir Khan, and Rashmi played by Juhi Chawla. 

The two lovers eloping from the eyes of the evil world, Qayamat se Qayamat Tak deals finally ends with the lovers dying in each other's arms finally uniting in death, their love however being immortalized.

18.   KHOON BHARI MAANG 1988

“Men can be gold diggers too” Khoon Bhari maang communicates the very same message. 

Arati played by Rekha a mother of two falls prey to Sanjay played by Kabir Bedi who marries solely with the intent of usurping her wealth; Sanjay's plan however fails as Arati after having disfigured her face because of being deliberately injured by Sanjay returns with a makeover and seeks vengeance. 

Arati in the movie stands for the struggles a single parent has to go through to bring up her kids safely. Sanjay is a metaphor for masochistic, chauvinistic men who regard women as nothing more than means to earn money to fulfill their selfish motives.

19.   MAINE PYAAR KIYA  1989

The true test of love is when circumstances around the lovers are subject to change, this old Hindi movie directed by Sooraj Barjatya states the same. 

This movie is about Prem, a wealthy spoilt brat played by Salman khan, and Suman a simple village girl played by Bhagyashree, and a pigeon serving as a mediator between them. 

Prem and Suman are two people in love, but the evil ways of society bringing in the clash of class differences between the two lovers is what compels Prem to prove his worth before his lady love's father. 

Prem and Suman however manage to unite in the end with the help of their avian friend and thus leave a message to keep perseverance for the love and light you wish to have around and campaign for it.

20.   SOORYAVANSHAM 1990

What remains the favorite of the father is always the spoilt child who later on goes on to become the prodigal son. Sooryavansham as a movie speaks briefly about the tough ways yet inexplicable ways a father uses to showcase his affection towards his child. 

Thakur Bhanu Pratap played by Amitabh Bacchan is headstrong and just and even reminds the police officer of the law when it comes to making tough decisions, his simpleton son Hira played by Amitabh Bacchan again is on the contrary uneducated and often ridiculed by people around him. 

Things change with the arrival of Radha played by Soundarya in Hira's life, Radha coming from a well-to-do family eloping with Hira is a matter of shame for both the families which leads to the couple's banishment from their respective families. 

Sooryavansham as a movie conveys the message of a father's love and the hard ways he uses for his child's betterment. Thakur Bhanu Pratap till the end struggling to make amends with his son is relevant and relatable to all the young folk having "Daddy issues".

21.   HENNA 1991

Henna refers to the dye which women apply to their hands to personify them. This medicinal herb finds its usage within the country and also beyond borders, this old Hindi movie story is just the same. 

The cross-border tension is caused by political fringe elements coming in way of two individuals in love both falling prey to the same. Henna played by Zeba Bakhtiar essays the character with a sense of subtly and Chand played by Rishi Kapoor the lone traveler trying to regain his memory and identification is what keeps the viewers gripping. 

The song in the movie " Jaane o Jaane, Tera Allah Nigehbaan Tera Maula Nigehbaan " delivers the message of real courage of letting go of the person you love and wishing well for him or her to betterment of one's peace.

22. Beta 1992

This old Hindi movie is a depiction of complex human relationships. Raju played by Anil Kapoor allowing himself to be manipulated by his stepmother Lakshmi played by Aruna Irani for her selfish motives makes the viewers feel sorry for the young man. 

However, all changes with the arrival of Radha played by Madhuri Dixit constantly tries to make Raju realize his mother’s viciousness is a metaphor for how people often fail to see what is malicious to them. Raju is however headstrong and devoted to his mother even if it means risking his life to prove the same. 

Beta deals with the themes of realization, exploitation, avarice, and greed for more which often come in way of doing good to the people who genuinely care for one's well-being.

23.   DARR 1993

"When you love something, you care for it, obsession is when you keep it all for yourself gradually causing it to decay." Darr as a movie is an exact depiction of the anonymous saying. 

Kiran played by Juhi Chawla is married to Sunil played by Sunil Deol by her parents to ward off the evil eye of her unnamed stalker. All changes with the arrival of Rahul played by Shahrukh khan, who turns out to be Kiran's obsessive lover. 

Darr was the first old Hindi movie to bring out the concept of an anti-hero, which is whether to show dislike or empathy towards the character. 

Shah Rukh khan's character and his obsession with his beloved leaves the viewers with a question "Is he bad and trying to cause harm to the protagonists or is he just an individual in love?."

24.   DAMINI 1993

Women are more than just mere objects of pleasure and exploitation, Damini's character essayed by Meenakshi Shesadri is portrayed in a very titular style. 

Damini who is married off to Shekhar played by Rishi Kapoor is witness to the gangrape of their household help. Damini as a movie is also a depiction of how people in influential posts and positions try to wash their sins off by adapting all kinds of foul means. 

Govind played by Sunny Deol playing the "Knight in shining armor " coming to Damini's rescue when she is passed off as mentally unstable to cover up for their younger son's sin reminds the viewers of that one particular friend we all have in all our lives who was always present when we needed him the most. He makes use of his 2.5-kilogram hand to bring justice to the damsel in distress and even lends her a helping hand legally to stand up against her in-laws. 

The relationship between Damini and Govind is symbiotic, Damini helps Govind regain his career who has resorted to alcoholism and is on the brink of bankruptcy, Govind in return helps her emerge victorious. 

What remains the larger question in the movie is how proper or correct is the exploitation of the needy, financially, physically, or sexually for one's selfish motives and how far can we go on justifying the same by making use of money, power, and position ?."

25.   RUDAALI 1993

Crying as an activity helps you release pent-up emotions; now in modern times crying has been normalized and is irrespective of gender. This old Hindi movie talks about the times when crying was only restricted to a certain section of society, basically meant for women who were hired by influential people to moan out loud about the loss of their loved ones. 

The story begins with a conversation between Bhikni played by Rakhee Gulzar and Shanichari played by Dimple Kapadia, where the latter narrates her life so far. Shanichari is bought up as a motherless child, who has been cast off by society because of her dark complexion and the misfortune that follows her. 

Laxman Singh played Raj Babbar comes to Shanichari's rescue when he stands up for her much to the dismay of the village folk thus fulfilling the void in her life. 

Through all the odds that happen in her life, Shanichari is strong enough not to shed a tear. However, an unexpected ending, in the end, causes the s far strong Shanichari to take up the job of a Rudaali and wail uncontrollably reminiscing about her life so far.

26.   HUM APKE HAIN KOUN 1994

This particular old Hindi movie directed by Sooraj Barjatya can be a real detox after having watched Milaap Milind Jhaveri's Mastizaade. 

Sooraj Barjatya's movie focuses on family values passed down by generations and cultural ties with a pint of love and romance. Rajesh played by  Monish Behl and Pooja played Renuka Shahade are married, Rajesh's younger brother prem played by Salman Khan falls for Nisha played by Madhuri Dixit. However, Pooja's death and her newly born child being left motherless is what bring a twist to the tale. 

Hum Aapke Hain Kaun is a question that the movie puts forward that is relevant to Nisha being a maternal aunt or a paternal aunt to Pooja's child. The pomeranian dog Tuffy is just a pet or some divine source of amalgamation sent forth by god to unite the two silently wailing lovers.

27.   DILWALE DULHANIYA LE JAYENGE 1995

This movie was the first of its kind during the 90s to have a long mouthful title. Directed by Aditya Chopra this movie shows the journey of Raj, played by Shahrukh khan and Simran played by Kajol is still afresh in the minds of people.  

Young folk still flock to Europe on a trip all alone or with friends with the hope of finding the one. Amrish Puri playing the patriarchal head of the family does with a sense of defiance, Farida Jalal playing the helpless mother wishes well for her daughter, and does not wish her child to endure the same subjugation that she had endured. 

Puja Rupareil as the younger sister lends an element of fun, her constant tiffs with Kuljeet played by Parmeet and Raj manage to divert the viewers from the pining lovers in the movie. 

The question that remains unanswered is "Why did Raj have to stretch out his hand out of the train for his beloved, he could have just pulled the emergency chain and stopped the vehicle, and Simran on the other hand could have pushed herself into one of the compartments behind and boarded the train instead of running behind in a heavily embroidered lehenga trying to hold her lover's hand?...

28.   MAACHIS 1996

The three colors of the Indian Tricolor namely orange, white and green stand for the diversity of people residing on the Indian soil, Orange for Hindus, Green for Islam, and White for minorities, Maachis as a movie talks about one particular minority community, the Sikhs and the atrocities they had to go through during operation Blue star which followed the assassination of the then Prime minister Smt Indira Gandhi. 

Maachis is a story of two lovers, Veeran played by Tabu, and Kripal played by Chandrachur Singh, the story focuses on the atrocities of the 1984 Sikh massacre and reminds the viewers of the message left by Bapu that is "an eye for an eye " makes the whole world blind. 

Maachis translating into matchsticks is a metaphor for the then political scenario used by people in and out of power to ignite hatred among the people for their selfish motives. 

The rest of the movie is a quicksand drawing the helpless Kripal into the depths of hatred and his constant struggle to stay away from the turmoil, to lead a happy peaceful, and interrupted life.

29.   KHAMOSHI THE MUSICAL  1996

Love has no language because eyes communicate all that is required between two lovers. Khamoshi meaning silence justifies the same, the two lovers Annie played by Manisha Koirala, and Raj played by Salman Khan, the only thing that bonds them are the seven notes of music. 

Nana Patekar and Seema Biswas playing Annie's parents holding onto their daughter and being insecure about the other man in her life is what all parents experience for their kids at some point in their lives.

Annies' deaf and mute parents have lots to say but their inability to voice through their mouths yet does not come in way of communicating what they feel and all that they have faced. 

Khamoshi as a movie deals with the themes of cross-religious harmony, acceptance, and love through the medium of music which makes it worth more than a one-time watch.

30.   RAJA HINDUSTHANI 1996

Money can be a good servant a bad master and often a reason for feuds, Raja Hindusthani revolves around the same. 

Arati played by Karishma Kapoor and Raja played by Aamir Khan are two individuals, the former being a rich man's only daughter and the latter being a simpleton who drives cars for a living. 

The greenery of Palankhet contributes to the romance blossoming between the two lovers which eventually leads to Arati leaving her father's home for the sake of love. 

The rest of the movie what follows is Arati's struggle to win back her love and her father's child single-handedly battling against the class tensions, while Raja constantly tries to move away from her like a lone traveler.

31.   BORDER 1997

Sandesein aate hain , humein tadpate hain , who chitthi aati hain , aur poochi jaati hain ki ghar kab aaoge". 

This particular song from the old Hindi movie border very well depicts the plight of the Indian soldiers staying away from their loved ones, to render service to the nation.

In a time when connectivity and communication weren't as easy as it is today, Border manages to strike a nerve with the viewers of the modern generation. Sunny Deol playing the chief constantly giving his boys hope, is the boss we wish we all had. 

Suniel Shetty being the family man prioritizing his nation first talks about the plight of all newly appointed young jawans constantly trying to strike a balance between their professional and personal lives. 

The soldiers in the movie are constantly living in fear of death, yet they do not let this fear overpower their spirit to live life to the fullest, they sing, dance, have fun and even pull the legs of their co-workers like in any other civilian work organization. 

Border as a movie asks a question that remains unanswered after 15 yrs of its release that is "What is war? Is war really necessary, who is it that benefits from the war?.”

32.   PARDES 1997

This old Hindi movie is a constant and the only reminder of a joyous Amrish Puri singing and making merry along with kids. Pardes as a movie deals with the theme of nationalism which binds all citizens at a conscious and subconscious level. 

Ganga played by Mahima Chaudhury effortlessly transforms into a fierce rebel when she experiences sexual assault at the hands of her fiancée Rajeev played by Apporv Agnihotri and then in the next scene she is the lamenting damsel in distress pleading before Arjun, her secret admirer played by Shahrukh khan begging him to take her away from the west. 

Arjun because of his gratitude toward Rajeev's family is unable to express his love for Ganga who has engaged to Rajeev the family's heir. There is an unspoken, unsaid bond developing between Ganga and Arjun which keeps the viewers gripped. 

The movie is a celebration of Nationalism, a constant reminder of how we as Indians lose our identity in trying to ape the west, and also of Ganga's liberation from the choices imposed on her, to finally marry the man of her choice.

33.   GUPT: THE HIDDEN TRUTH

Gupt, meaning undercover is an old Hindi movie that keeps the series of murders and the killer behind the same unrevealed until the end. 

Sahil played by Bobby Deol falls victim to a series of murders committed by an unknown killer, Sahil is caught in a web of lies deceit, and treachery. The background of the story is Sahil being forced to marry the girl of his father's choice Sheetal played by Manisha Koirala rather than the girl he longs for Isha played by Kajol, which eventually gives rise to the father-son feud. 

Sahil is however framed for the murder of his father and the murders following thereafter. The fierce storyline keeps the viewers gripped till the end as it brings an unexpected ending with the killers' identity. 

Gupt as a movie was probably the first psychological crime thriller that introduced the audience to a new genre of cinema in an age of romance among the mustard stalks.

34.   JUDAAI 1997

This old Hindi movie begins with separation and also ends with separation, it is for the viewers to decide whose separation is greater in both hands it is the women in the movie who are lost. 

Initially, it is Kajal, a simple housewife who finds her mediocre living uncomfortable and constantly tried to ape the upper-class socialites trying to fit into their circle. Her lust to elevate her status caused her to sell her husband Raj played by Anil Kapoor to a wealthy girl Janhvi played by Urmilla Matondkar. 

Raj initially disagrees with the trade and eventually agrees after Kajal's continuous persistence. He constantly reprimands Janhvi's advances but eventually falls for her. 

The rest of the movie that follows is Kajal's realization and worth of people and relationships trying to gain back all that she had willingly gambled away. 

Judaai deals with the theme of materialism, greed, treachery, familial ties, and how money plays an important role yet is not very important in determining human relationships.

35.   KOYLA 1997

Koyla refers to the deposit of coal which is also called black gold, the entire story surrounds a coal mine and the diamonds that have been formed in the same mine owing to the immense pressure. 

Koyla begins with a deaf and mute boy Shankar played by Shahrukh khan working for Amrish Puri who wishes to marry Radha a local heartthrob, played by Madhuri Dixit. Shankar is then sent to lure in Radha for the relatively old landlord Raja Saab played by Amrish Puri. 

The rest of the movie which follows is Raja Saab's chase for Shankar and Gauri who find it difficult to conceal their feelings from one another. Koyla deals with the theme of working-class exploitation, treachery, avarice; greed, and ultimately vengeance in Shankar's favor thereby making him emerge victorious.

36.   KUCH KUCH HOTA HAIN 1998

The above phrase in English translates into "butterflies in the stomach". The story revolves around three friends Rahul, played by Shahrukh Khan, Tina played by Rani Mukherjee and Anjali played by Kajol, and one love triangle. 

The movie asks a very relevant question that is for love to blossom between two people it is important to have a bond of friendship and understanding because with age the only companion that remains behind is your soul mate the one that is sent for you from someone sitting above. 

Two best friends always need not be lovers, but for two people to be lovers they must be first good friends. 

The movie is a Kajol show, In the first half where she is playing a sporty, funky not so feminine, and in the second half, she is the where the choice is for Anjali to make to proceed with the new life that awaits her or to return to the love whose seeds she had buried long back and has now managed to sprout up again.

37.   SOLDIER 1998

This old Hindi movie was the second highest grossing of its particular time, this movie marks the debut of Pretty Preity Zinta and Bobby Deol. It deals with the theme of nationalism, love, treachery, bigotry, and corruption in the nation's arms forces. 

The movie is a quest for vengeance by Vicky played by Bobby Deol. The movie travels across continents as Vicky tries to unmask the real identity of his father's murderers, unknowingly falling for the antagonists' daughter Preity played by Preity Zinta. 

The movie deals with the question of how far can a man go to fulfill his greed, can he even trade his soul, his values, and even his motherland which is the very reason for his existence?

38.   BADE MIYAN CHOTE MIYAN 1998

This particular old Hindi movie has an inherent and vivid element of the Shakespearian play "Comedy of errors ", total hilarious confusion between a set of brothers and their look alike. 

Arjun Singh and Pyare Mohan Bhargav played by Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda respectively often find themselves falling prey to the petty crimes committed by their look-alike despite having committed their duty as police inspectors rightfully. 

What follows is a hilarious chase between the originals and their alibis trying to get a clean chit for themselves for the crimes committed by their negative alibis. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan despite having a storyline borrowed from an ancient era manages to keep the viewers entertained till the end.

39.   DIL SE 1999

DIL SE transforming into doing what your heart feels is right, this old Hindi movie transcends into the same. The movie is set against the backdrop of the Kashmiri conflict and how politicians lure innocent people to fulfill their own selfish needs. 

Moina played by Manisha Koirala is a victim of the same, the entire movie is about her resistance against the romantic advances of Amar played by Shahrukh Khan. Amar constantly tries to woo Mina while the latter strongly resisting his approach makes us feel for the couple. 

Moina, however, is headstrong in carrying out her mission which is to disrupt peace and harmony and terrorize the people around her. Amar however has a tough time trying to enlighten her about the evil ways of people in power adopted by them to continue to remain in power. 

Director Mani Ratnam manages to put forward the question of who is responsible for the disruption and adulteration of peace and harmony, is it the people in power or is the common folk allowing themselves to be carried away by those who are ruling and wish to continue ruling?

40.   HUM SAATH SAATH HAIN 1999

Hum Saath Saath Hain is another old Hindi movie directed by Sooraj Barjatya focusing on familial ties, cultural values, and sibling bondage. Prem, Vivek, and Vinod played by Salman Khan, Saif Ali khan and Monish Behl are three brothers in harmony.

All changes with the arrival of three maidens for the three eligible bachelors. The romance between Sadhana played by Tabu and Vivek is restricted yet communicative, Sadhana can see beyond Vivek's disfigured arm and willingly accepts him as her better half. 

Prem's romance with Preity played by Sonali Bendre is shy yet expressive, they do not declare their love openly yet manage to sneak out and spend a few uninterrupted moments of their "Couple time " away from the nosy eyes of their elders. Vinod's romance with Sapna played by Karishma Kapoor is fun-filled, loud, and boisterous. 

Despite the variations in their way of expressing love what does not manage to stir the relationship of the brothers is the mutual understanding love care and respect they have for one another. 

Even after Vivek and Sadhana are banished by their mother because of their mother falling prey to the bad-mouthing of her club ladies, the brothers still stand up for one another and manage to have a way of being together. 

Hum Saath Saath focuses on the importance of having a joint family a system which is not very relevant in modern times, Hum Saath Saath Hain also focuses on the importance of spending quality time with one's family even if it is having a meal a day together.

41.   HUM DIL DE CHUKE SANAM 1999

When you desire something, you have to let it go. Vanraj's character played by Ajay Devgan in this old Hindi movie explains the same. 

Nandini played by Aishwariya Rai is married forcefully married to Vanraj much against her wish to prevent her family name from being tarnished as a result of her union with Sameer played by Salman Khan. 

The first half of the movie is all deserts, Garba dancing, heavily brocaded lehengas, and loads of Hindusthani classical music. 

The second half of the movie takes the viewers to Italian soil where we witness Venice city, tarantella dancers, and foods with unpronounceable names. 

The choice is left for Nandini to make to return to her lover or acknowledge the man who has made an effort to travel past the seven seas to unite her with the man she once loved.

42.   TAAL 1999

Taal being the fundamental building block of any kind of music in this particular old Hindi movie is the building block of romance between Mansi played by Aishwariya Rai Bacchan and Manav played by Akshay Khanna. 

The story transcends to Mumbai where Mansi trades off her inherent unadulterated classical music to a music company owner Vikrant played by Anil Kapoor to prove a point to Manav. The rest of the movie that follows is Mansi trying to conceal her feelings for Manav while constantly trying to shy away from Vikrants romantic advances. 

The "TAAL " in this movie undergoes various stages of transformation it first brews the romance between Mansi and Manav, in between loses track and becomes Be –taal but finally manages to restore its originality with all three individuals Mansi, Manav, and Vikrant realizing the real meaning of love.

43.   SARFAROSH

This particular old Hindi movie deals with the themes of treachery, and patriotism corruption both morally and socially. It also highlights the horrors of partition and the impact it has had on people's lives. 

Naseeruddin shah plays the wolf in sheep's skin, a ghazal singer by the name of Ghulam who is a victim to the same. Aamir Khan as ACP Ajay Singh Rathod is young, alerted, and always on his feet firmly living and breathing the philosophy of "nation first." Sonali Bendre plays Ajay's love interest who goes by the name of Seema. 

Sarfarosh as a movie explores the themes of treachery, communal hatred, and religious discrimination and also asks a relevant question if we have traitors within our people how do we keep our motherland safe against the evil eye?

44.   HERA PHERI 2000

This old Hindi movie still finds its place on social media meme pages, with jokes and caricatures. Thanks to Paresh Rawal for having immortalized the character of Baburao. 

The movie is a comic triangle between Baburao and his two tenants Ghanshyam played by Suniel Shetty and Raju played by Akshay Kumar. 

The first half of the movie makes the viewers feel sorry for the trio as they try to manage their petty condition. Ghanshyam trying to secure a stable means of living, Raju living carefree despite not having paid the house rent for 2 yrs and Babu Rao only cares about his peg of alcohol. 

The latter half of the movie is a wild goose chase by the trio only to return to their place richer than before. Hera Pheri was a realistic yet comic movie that keeps the viewers entertained till the end. 

The Baburao accent is still imitated and enacted by many artists whenever we are reminded of Paresh Rawal.

45.   GADAR 2001

This old Hindi movie has made the extracting of a hand pump from the soil synonymous with Sunny Deol. Gadar is a love story set across the background of partition. 

Dara played by Sunny Deol is a Sikh driver who falls in love with a well-bred girl Sakina played by Amisha Patel who is a Muslim. For Sakina, Dara is her "knight in shining armor" to save her from being raped by fanatics Dara is unafraid and proclaims her as his wife to safeguard her honor. 

What follows in the movie is a cross border tension, religious hatred, and how it affects a marital relationship and their tiny little child. The movie is also about Sakina's struggle to choose whether to listen to her parents or to return to the man who walked in while everyone else walked out.

46.   LAGAAN 2001

This particular old Hindi movie was the most expensive of its release. Lagan deals with the theme of colonization as a war based on cricket between Bhuvan Latha played by Aamir Khan and the British empire. 

The movie deals with themes of untouchability, equality, and exploitation based on race. The movie however is longer than the usual screen time allowing all the characters to have enough screen space to showcase their skills. 

It conveys the old message of "United we stand and Divided we fall" Bhuvan's character in the film is a catalyst for uniting the country's people against oppression which gradually paved the way for Indian Independence.

47.   DIL CHAHTA HAIN 2001

This particular old Hindi movie was the reason why tourism in Goa went soaring high, Dil Chahta Hain is a story of three friends Sameer, Akash, and Sid (played by Saif Ali khan, Aamir Khan, and Akshaye Khanna respectively)  and their carefree lives. 

Sid however is drawn to a fairly older Tara because of which he is mocked by his friends, a direct metaphor in the modern-day society where the reverse age gap (The girl being older ) is not very open to acceptance. 

Dil Chahta Hain also deals with the message of friends remaining friends despite all the differences they have had between them. Familial bonds are given by god and we as individuals have no control over them, friends are the ones we choose for ourselves hence this is a really wise decision to make. 

Preity Zinta and Sonali Kulkarni playing the love interests of the boys Akash and Sameer lend an introduction to new-age romance. The movie however is a celebration of friendship and love and also focuses on the essence of forgiveness to move on and live a peaceful life.

So that concludes my list of the best old Hindi movies.

Movies in their own realistic, unrealistic way manage to keep the viewer entertained for a short stint, compressing Bollywood movies to a mere list of 47 would be duly unjust, here are a few of 47, there are more 47 to be added, some might have been missed while some are fast asleep in the conscious and subconscious mind of a creative soul. 

I hope you liked the list. I know I missed a lot of great movies, so comment down the names of those movies which you think are still the best old Hindi Movies. Also, do let me know, how many from this list have you watched and how many you liked.