Motherhood on screen: 5 Bollywood movies to watch on Mother's Day

Gone are the days when films depicted "traditional moms" who would sacrifice their own dreams and aspirations for the sake of the kids and family. Contemporary cinema portrays mothers as strong women with a voice of their own, who often treat their kids like best friends. 

Mother’s Day, celebrated on the second Sunday of May every year, is an occasion to celebrate the wonderful women in our lives. If you are planning to watch a movie with your mother to celebrate a special day, here are a few recommendations.

English Vinglish

'English Vinglish', directed by Gauri Shinde, is a heartwarming depiction of motherhood. Shashi (played by Sridevi), goes to the United States for her niece's wedding. She is taken for granted throughout her life. Her inability to communicate in English causes more difficulty. The rest of the story follows Shashi's journey to master English and reassert her value as a wife and mother.

Mimi

Mimi (played by Kriti Sanon), a small-time dancer who harbours dreams to become a Bollywood star, unexpectedly finds herself becoming a surrogate mother. The film focuses on the difficulties she faces as she carries the child of an American couple. When they realise that the child may have Down Syndrome, they ask Mimi to abort it. However, Mimi gives birth to a healthy child whom she names Raj (Jacob Smith). Once the couple learns of this, they come back to claim the child. Watch the movie to find out what happens next.

The Sky Is Pink

Directed by Shonali Bose, this film is based on the life of motivational speaker Aisha Chaudhary. It revolves around a young girl (played by Zaira Wasim) who is diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, a terminal disease. Her parents (Priyanka Chopra and Farhan Akhtar) try to provide a fulfilling life for their daughter, while simultaneously navigating their marriage. Her mother’s dedication to the well-being of her child makes up a major portion of the plot. 

Mom

A thriller film starring Sridevi, it showcases justice, revenge and maternal instinct. The story revolves around Devki a loving stepmother who transforms into a vigilante seeking justice for the sexual assault of her stepdaughter Arya (Sajal Aly). The film emphasizes the lengths a mother would go to protect her child.

Helicopter Eela 

This film revolves around the life of Eela, an overprotective yet endearing mother. Based on the Gujarati play 'Beta Kaagdo' by Anand Gandhi, Eela (Kajol), an aspiring singer, gives up on her career after her husband abandons her and their son. She ends up attending the same college as her son.