The recently released Hollywood film The Idea of You has been garnering positive response from critics and audiences alike, with the majority of the audience praising actress Anne Hathaway’s character who embarks on a romantic relationship with a sixteen-year-old man, played by Nicholas Galitzine. While there is no dearth of such Hollywood films where older women find love in younger men, Bollywood has long been known for its conventional portrayal of romance, often sticking to the age-old formula of older men falling in love with much younger heroines. However, once in a blue moon, we encounter a refreshing shift in narratives, with filmmakers daring to break stereotypes by exploring relationships where older women take the lead in romancing younger men. Here are five Bollywood films that have delved into this unconventional yet heartwarming territory:
Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016)
Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, Lipstick Under My Burkha is a bold and unapologetic portrayal of the desires and aspirations of four women from different age groups. One of the storylines follows Usha Buaji, essayed by the supremely talented Ratna Pathak Shah, a widow in her fifties who finds herself entangled in a passionate affair with a much younger swimming instructor. The film fearlessly confronts societal taboos surrounding age and sexuality, advocating for the freedom to love and live on one's own terms.
Ki & Ka (2016)
Balki's Ki & Ka challenges gender stereotypes while also subtly addressing age dynamics in relationships. The film follows the unconventional love story of Kia, played by Kareena Kapoor Khan, an ambitious career woman, and Kabir, portrayed by Arjun Kapoor, a laid-back house husband. While the age gap between the characters isn't explicitly highlighted, Kia's assertive and independent personality contrasts with Kabir's easy-going nature, challenging traditional gender roles and societal expectations.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
Directed by Karan Johar, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil explores complex emotions and relationships, including one between a mature poet, Saba, portrayed by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and a much younger aspiring musician, Ayan, played by Ranbir Kapoor. Saba's character exudes confidence and sensuality, captivating Ayan despite their age difference. Their unconventional love story traverses themes of unrequited love, friendship, and the acceptance of life's unpredictable twists and turns.
Wake Up Sid (2009)
Helmed by debutant filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, this coming-of-age film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma not only captivated audiences with its portrayal of youthful rebellion and self-discovery but also subtly delved into the theme of an unconventional romance between an older woman and a younger man. The film smashed several stereotypes by showing how a young, confused, just-out-of-college boy who is grappling with his own insecurities and struggles to find his place in the world falls in love with an independent, older writer.
Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
Dil Chahta Hai, directed by Farhan Akhtar, remains a seminal film in Indian cinema, celebrated for its portrayal of friendship, love, and self-discovery. Among its many memorable aspects is the subplot involving Akshaye Khanna's character, Siddharth, falling in love with a much older divorcee, Tara Jaiswal, portrayed by Dimple Kapadia.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.