The daily grind, wake up, work, eat, sleep, can feel endless. And when it's time for a break, we often fall back on the same old Bollywood titles. But this monsoon, it’s time to explore fresh narratives from Indian regional cinema that go beyond formula and offer stories rich in emotion, rooted in culture, and deeply human.
Here’s a curated list of nine regional films across languages that are perfect for a rainy afternoon. These aren't loud or overly dramatic. Instead, they sit quietly with you, like a comforting conversation, a warm drink, or a long-lost friend.
Sillu Karupatti (2019) Netflix
This Tamil anthology explores love at different life stages, making viewers reflect on their own romantic journeys. The film asks compelling questions: ‘Do you remember your first crush? Your best/worst/longest/most surprising relationship?’ Whether you're married or single, this movie touches upon various relationship dynamics, leaving audiences sighing, sinking deeper into the couch, with a smile forming along the way.
Nila (2015) Netflix
For those seeking gentle, contemplative cinema, ‘Nila’ delivers a powerful story in a minimal runtime. The plot follows a man driving home late at night who offers a lift to a woman who turns out to be someone he once loved. This Tamil film is minimal, meditative, but full of life, not the happening kind, but the slow, makes-you-think kind.
Kumbalangi Nights (2019) Amazon Prime Video
This Malayalam film tackles masculinity and emotional healing through the story of four brothers dealing with their struggles. The movie addresses how men and their choices to deal with their feelings are always talked about, but few stories actually break down these emotions effectively. Through small ways of healing, we see men learning to love themselves.
Bangalore Days (2014) JioHotstar
Set in India's IT capital, this Malayalam film follows three cousins as they navigate heartbreak, freedom, and small, unexpected joys in a city that is full of promise. The movie serves as comfort viewing for times when you need a tight, long hug but have no one around, the warmth here will make you feel just at home.
C/O Kancharapalem (2018) Amazon Prime Video
This Telugu gem captures the essence of small-town life through four couples' interconnected stories. The film revolves around Kancharapalem's narrow lanes, noisy neighbours, people interested in each other's lives, and yet, they only care about their own lives, a mirror to how imperfect reality is. The thoughtfully woven narrative makes viewers laugh in one scene and think in the next.
Muramba (2017) YouTube
This Marathi romantic comedy lives up to its name, ‘Muramba’ is a sweet, sour, slightly spicy preserve. So is this Marathi film. The story follows Alok and Indu's breakup, but focuses on how Alok's parents struggle to process it. The film is described as honest, funny and full of flavour, warm like pohe ani garma-garam chaha!
Haami (2018) JioHotstar
This Bengali film offers a satirical take on parenting and education through the story of two 7-year-old best friends, Bhutu and Chini, whose innocent kiss creates a scandal among their parents. The movie is insanely hilarious and perfect for days when you just can't life and want to go back to being a kid again.
Chaal Jeevi Laiye (2019) JustWatche
This Gujarati film presents a heartwarming father-son story featuring Aditya and Bipin. Viewers quickly start rooting for the father-son duo in this film that's equal parts soulful and fun. The movie takes audiences on an emotional journey through stunning views and heartfelt moments, making it perfect for those seeking something soft and tender.
Kabaddi (2014) YouTube
This Nepali film explores persistent love through Kaji's unwavering pursuit of Maiya. The movie asks important questions about love: Love is usually portrayed as strong, nonchalant or the kind that makes you go head-over-heels. But how often do we see a love that is persistent? One that is heartbreakingly sincere? Kaji's dedication will break your heart. And then piece it back together, creating a viewing experience that has audiences sighing and laughing, all in the same breath.
These nine films represent different languages, cultures, and perspectives, yet they all share the common thread of authentic human experiences.
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