Sanjay Leela Bhansali began his career in the Indian film industry as an assistant director to Vidhu Vinod Chopra on the film Parinda in 1989. However, he made his directorial debut with Khamoshi: The Musical in 1996. Though the film was not a commercial hit at the box office, he continued to put his passion into the silver screen. And finally, the director got fame and recognition after the release of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam starring Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, and Ajay Devgn.
Since then, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has established himself as one of the leading filmmakers in the Indian film industry known for his visually stunning and emotionally rich films. From Sharukh Khan starrer Devdas to Gangubai Kathiawadi featuring Alia Bhatt, let us revive the best films of Bhansali that define visual spectacle and emotional depth.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Majestic Masterpieces
Here is the list of the best films directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali that captivated our hearts and souls.
1. Devdas
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The tragic love story revolves around the central character Devdas Mukherjee, a wealthy young man from a privileged background, who falls in love with Paro, his childhood sweetheart. However, societal norms and family pride prevent them from being together, leading Devdas to drown his sorrows in alcohol. Paro is married off to another man, while Devdas seeks solace with a courtesan named Chandramukhi.
As their lives intertwine over the years, Devdas’ inability to reconcile with his lost love ultimately leads to his downfall and demise, portraying the devastating consequences of unfulfilled love and societal pressures.
2. Black
Platform: Netflix
The powerful drama follows the story of Michelle McNally, played by Rani Mukerji, who was born deaf and blind due to an illness in her infancy. The film depicts her challenging journey as she struggles to communicate with the outside world. Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s directorial explores themes of resilience, determination, and the profound impact of human connection in overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
3. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The romantic drama revolves around the complicated love triangle between Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai and Ajay Devgn’s characters. The story begins with Nandini, the daughter of a renowned classical singer, being betrothed to Vanraj, a kind-hearted man from a small town.
Sameer’s arrival sparks a deep connection between him and Nandini, and they soon fall deeply in love with each other. However, their blossoming romance is discovered by Nandini’s father, who is devastated by the betrayal of his trust.
4. Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Despite being aware of their families’ enmity, Ram and Leela are unable to resist the intense attraction between them. As tensions escalate between the two clans, violence erupts, leading to tragic consequences.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s directorial features an ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Supriya Pathak, and Sharad Kelkar, among others.
5. Bajirao Mastani
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Inspired by the love story of Peshwa Bajirao I, the head of the Maratha Empire, and his second wife, Mastani, the epic saga depicts the challenges faced by the duo throughout their lives. As tensions escalate between the Marathas and their enemies, Bajirao’s loyalty to Mastani is put to the ultimate test.
The film culminates in a tragic and emotionally charged climax, where Bajirao and Mastani’s love is tested in the face of insurmountable odds.
6. Padmaavat
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The film is a fictionalized retelling of the story of Rani Padmavati, a legendary queen known for her beauty, courage, and sacrifice. As the ruthless king Alauddin Khilji learns about Padmavati’s beauty, he becomes obsessed with possessing her. Determined to conquer Chittor and claim Padmavati for himself, Khilji launches an attack on the kingdom.
As the conflict intensifies, Padmavati makes the ultimate sacrifice to protect her dignity and honor. She chooses to perform jauhar, a ritual self-immolation, along with the other women of Chittor, rather than submit to Khilji’s advances.
7. Gangubai Kathiawadi
Platform: Netflix
Based on the book Mafia Queens of Mumbai by Hussain Zaidi, the biographical crime drama features Alia Bhatt in the titular role of Gangubai Kathiawadi, a powerful and influential brothel owner in the Kamathipura area of Mumbai.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s directorial delves into Gangubai’s complex persona, exploring her relationships, her struggles, and her unwavering resolve to carve out a place for herself in a male-dominated world. Moreover, the film sheds light on the socio-political landscape of Mumbai during that era and the exploitation faced by women in society.
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s contribution to the world of cinema is immense and multifaceted. Through his visionary direction, meticulous attention to detail, and unparalleled storytelling prowess, he has gifted audiences with timeless masterpieces that transcend cultural boundaries and touch the deepest corners of the human heart.