Five Bollywood Films That Won Hearts But Bombed at Box Office

A good film doesn't necessarily mean a surefire hit at the box-office, especially in case of Bollywood films. IBTimes UK lists out five movies that failed to set the box office cash registers ringing despite being crtically acclaimed.

Swades

Swades is a prime example of how sometimes different aspects of film-making come together and work in perfect harmony to create a quality product. Ashutosh Gowariker presents a very subtle and simple story of an NRI who returns to his country and rediscovers his roots. The strong content of this film is duly supported by excellent performances and A R Rahman's brilliant music score.

Under able direction, the film delivers its core message without being preachy. Truly a modern fare fused with traditional elements.

Lakshya

"Lakshya. The word is Lakshya," says Preity Zinta's character sometime around the beginning of the film. And that is precisely what the core of this film is all about.

Farhan Akhtar, fresh from the uber cool and hip Dil Chahta Hai, took up a very different subject and made it into an inspiring, powerful story about overcoming all obstacles and hardships to pursue your goals, your dreams and your lakshya (aim).

The character of a young, confused boy at the crossroads of life was loosely modelled on Akhtar himself and it was superbly portrayed on screen by Hritik Roshan.

Irrespective of its box office figures, this film has managed to obtain a cult status. Definitely one of the better coming-of-age films.

Andaaz Apna Apna

If there is one film, apart from Sholay, whose characters and dialogues will continue to be quoted, referenced and held up as a benchmark for pure Bollywood masala entertainment, it will most probably be Andaaz Apna Apna.

Raj Kumar Santoshi's 1994 farce saw Aamir Khan and Salman Khan at the peak of their charm, and while the wacky film tanked at the box office when released, it has since just gone on to become increasingly popular gaining a true cult following.

Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron

Directed by Kundan Shah, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron is a truly epic comical satire. This film, released in 1983, has the best parody of Mahabhartha to date! It was the learning ground for future talents like Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur, Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Sudhir Mishra among others.

This film was made on a very tight budget, nearly running out of funds mid-shoot. It did not reach enough audiences due to lack of publicity and limited theatrical release. However, it was a marvellous and genuine effort by some really talented people who loved their craft, and that reflected in their work. The film went on to become a massive television hit and remains a must-buy DVD.

1942: A Love Story

A film made with a lot of heart and set against the backdrop of India's freedom movement. This is the kind of film you need to simply experience. Be it Manisha Koirala's striking beauty, powerful performances from an ensemble cast or the amazing recreation of an era gone by, the film at no point will cease to amaze. Add to that the soulful music of R D Burman. Kudos to director Vinod Chopra for creating one of the best period dramas in Bollywood cinema.