5 Bollywood movies based on Shakespeares plays

New Delhi: Some stories never go out of style, and Shakespeare’s timeless tales of love, betrayal, and revenge are the perfect example. Bollywood, with its flair for drama and emotion, has given these classics a desi twist over the years. If you love intense romances, dark secrets, and gripping tragedies, here is a list of 5 Bollywood movies that beautifully reimagine Shakespeare’s unforgettable stories.

1. Ram-Leela

Released in 2013, Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela is Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s extravagant take on the classic Romeo and Juliet, set against the rustic backdrop of Gujarat. The story revolves around two lovers from rival clans whose romance blooms amid bloodshed and animosity. Known for its grand visuals, the film is a visual treat with its elaborate sets, vibrant colours, traditional folk dances, and powerful music. The film’s aesthetic brilliance was further amplified by Anju Modi’s intricately designed costumes and authentic, handcrafted jewellery by Amrapali, both of which beautifully reflected Gujarati culture and tradition.

2. Maqbool

Released in 2003, Maqbool is a gripping Hindi crime drama directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, featuring a stellar cast including Irrfan Khan, Tabu, Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri. A dark, intense adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the film reimagines the classic tale within the underworld of Mumbai. While it didn’t make a significant impact at the box office, it received international praise for Bhardwaj’s direction, background score, and music. Maqbool marked the beginning of Bhardwaj’s acclaimed Shakespeare trilogy.

3. Haider

Released in 2014, Haider is a hard-hitting Hindi political crime thriller directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, who also co-produced the film with Siddharth Roy Kapur. Featuring Shahid Kapoor, Tabu, Kay Kay Menon, Shraddha Kapoor, and Irrfan Khan in key roles, the film offers a hauntingly powerful adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Set against the turbulent backdrop of Kashmir in 1995, Haider follows the story of a young poet who returns home amid the ongoing insurgency, searching for the truth behind his father’s mysterious disappearance. As he investigates further, he finds himself entangled in a complex web of betrayal, loss, and politics that surrounds the region. 

4. Omkara

Released in 2006, Omkara is Vishal Bhardwaj’s raw and gripping adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello, set deep in the dusty, lawless villages of Uttar Pradesh. With a stellar cast including Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Konkona Sen Sharma, the film explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal. Bhardwaj skilfully weaves the timeless tale into the fabric of rural India, reflecting on caste politics, power struggles, and fragile loyalties. Saif Ali Khan’s intense portrayal of Langda Tyagi remains one of his finest, while Bhardwaj’s earthy music and rustic visuals give Omkara a haunting, memorable charm.

5. Ishaqzaade

Released in 2012, Ishaqzaade is a fiery romantic drama starring Arjun Kapoor and Parineeti Chopra, set in a small, patriarchal town where politics and family honour dictate lives. The film is also inspired by Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo and Juliet. The film follows Parma and Zoya, two hot-headed youngsters from rival political families who unexpectedly fall in love amidst deep-rooted hatred and violence. While it drew comparisons to Issaq and Ram-Leela, Ishaqzaade offered a raw, earthy take on forbidden love. Parineeti’s bold performance and Arjun’s intense debut were widely appreciated, with Gauahar Khan leaving a mark as the lively Chand Baby. Backed by a memorable soundtrack, the film earned mixed reviews but resonated with audiences for its rustic charm and emotional intensity.

(This story is curated by Sanika Kapoor.)