Bollywood has long been fascinated by America, often capturing the unique challenges, triumphs, and adventures of Indian immigrants and visitors to the U.S. Whether it’s about chasing the American Dream or navigating cultural conflicts, these movies provide a lens into the diverse experiences of Indians in America.
On the occasion of Donald Trump’s victorious return as President of the United States, BizAsiaLive.com brings readers five iconic Bollywood films set in the U.S. that showcase ambition, resilience, and the complexities of life in a foreign land.
My Name is Khan (2010)Directed by Karan Johar, My Name is Khan tells the story of Rizwan Khan, an autistic Indian Muslim man who embarks on a journey across America to meet the President of the United States. Featuring a powerful performance by Shah Rukh Khan, the film explores themes of identity, resilience, and discrimination, while also offering a deep commentary on the immigrant experience and post-9/11 America. My Name is Khan remains one of Bollywood’s most celebrated films set in the U.S., blending personal ambition with broader social issues.
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)Another Karan Johar film, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (KANK) is set in New York City and features a star-studded cast, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, and Preity Zinta. The film explores relationships and the complex decisions people make in search of happiness, often against societal expectations. With the backdrop of America’s vibrant urban life, KANK examines issues of love, loyalty, and self-identity, making it a nuanced Bollywood take on love in the modern world.
English Vinglish (2012)Gauri Shinde’s English Vinglish tells the inspiring story of Shashi (Sridevi), a middle-class Indian woman who travels to New York for a family wedding and enrolls in an English language course. This journey not only improves her language skills but also transforms her sense of self-worth and confidence. The film resonates deeply with anyone who has faced language barriers or struggled to adapt to a new culture. English Vinglish celebrates the empowerment that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone.
Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)Set in the heart of New York, Kal Ho Naa Ho is a romantic drama that follows the lives of Naina (Preity Zinta), Aman (Shah Rukh Khan), and Rohit (Saif Ali Khan). The movie captures the pulse of Indian-American life, blending romance, comedy, and drama with themes of family, friendship, and resilience. Known for its emotional depth and memorable soundtrack, Kal Ho Naa Ho beautifully portrays the vibrant Indian community in America while also addressing themes of love, loss, and legacy.
Dostana (2008)With a Miami setting, Dostana is a unique Bollywood take on friendship and identity in America. Starring Priyanka Chopra, John Abraham, and Abhishek Bachchan, this film revolves around two friends pretending to be a couple to secure an apartment. The film delves into issues of acceptance, friendship, and the modern Indian immigrant experience in America, all while delivering laughs and romance. Dostana is a lighthearted yet insightful glimpse into multicultural relationships in a vibrant American setting.
