If you’re a fan of Saiyaara — with its emotional storytelling, unforgettable music, and raw performances — you’re definitely not alone. The film has left a mark on many hearts because it blends pain, romance, and hope in a way that feels personal.
But what should you watch next? If you’re looking for films that deliver the same soul-stirring emotions, we’ve got you covered. These top 10 movies, recommended by critics, bring similar vibes — heart-wrenching love stories, poetic visuals, and soundtracks that stay with you.
Looking to stream these movies? You can explore afilmywap movie collections where similar emotional and romantic films are often listed for easy access.
1. Rockstar (2011)
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Rockstar is the spiritual sibling of Saiyaara. The movie follows the journey of Janardhan (Ranbir Kapoor), an aspiring musician who becomes a rock sensation only after experiencing intense heartbreak. The movie’s music by A.R. Rahman is soul-shaking, especially tracks like “Nadaan Parindey” and “Tum Ho”. If you loved the way Saiyaara explored pain and purpose through love, Rockstar will hit you even harder.
2. Tamasha (2015)
Another masterpiece by Imtiaz Ali, Tamasha dives deep into how people lose their true selves under the pressure of societal norms. Ved (Ranbir Kapoor) and Tara (Deepika Padukone) share a love story that starts in Corsica but turns into an emotional exploration of identity. The storytelling is nonlinear, poetic, and layered with metaphors — much like Saiyaara‘s emotional complexity. It’s a film that encourages viewers to embrace who they really are.
3. Aashiqui 2 (2013)
This intense romantic tragedy revolves around Rahul, a fading rockstar, and Aarohi, a rising singer. Their love is passionate but also destructive, tested by addiction and insecurity. The film mirrors Saiyaara‘s emotional highs and lows with its unforgettable soundtrack featuring songs like “Tum Hi Ho” and “Sunn Raha Hai”. It’s a heartbreaker — raw and real.
4. Lootera (2013)
Set in 1950s Bengal, Lootera is a period romance that unfolds slowly, like a painting in motion. Inspired by O. Henry’s short story The Last Leaf, it tells the story of Pakhi (Sonakshi Sinha), a gentle aristocrat, and Varun (Ranveer Singh), an archaeologist with a secret. The cinematography is poetic, and the emotions are delicate and deeply personal. It’s not just a film — it’s an experience.
🎬 Interested in how emotions shape Bollywood cinema? Here’s a great article by The Quint on Bollywood romantic storytelling.
5. Barfi! (2012)
This film is a celebration of life, love, and the little moments. It follows the story of Barfi (Ranbir Kapoor), a hearing- and speech-impaired young man, and his relationships with Shruti and Jhilmil (Priyanka Chopra), the latter of whom is autistic. Barfi! proves that love doesn’t need words to be felt. With a Chaplin-esque charm and sensitive handling, it resonates emotionally just like Saiyaara — in silence and stillness.
6. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
This emotional rollercoaster captures themes of love, sacrifice, and terminal illness. Aman (Shah Rukh Khan) enters Naina’s (Preity Zinta) life and changes everything, despite hiding a painful secret. The dialogues, performances, and especially the soundtrack make it a timeless love story. If Saiyaara made you tear up, Kal Ho Naa Ho will break and warm your heart all over again.
💡 Want more recommendations? Check this IMDb romance drama film list for other emotionally rich titles.
7. Highway (2014)
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Highway tells the story of Veera (Alia Bhatt), a young woman who finds unexpected freedom after being kidnapped. What starts as a terrifying event turns into a transformative journey. The film addresses trauma, inner healing, and emotional release in a way that feels liberating. It doesn’t follow traditional romance but still offers a deep emotional connection with the audience.
8. Fitoor (2016)
Based loosely on Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, Fitoor is a visually rich film that explores love, rejection, and obsession. Noor (Aditya Roy Kapur) falls for the elusive Firdaus (Katrina Kaif), but their love is manipulated by Firdaus’s mother (played by Tabu). While the pace is slow, the film has stunning cinematography, deep metaphors, and a musical score that adds to the melancholy.
9. Veer-Zaara (2004)
Directed by Yash Chopra, Veer-Zaara is the ultimate tale of timeless, cross-border love. It tells the story of Veer (Shah Rukh Khan), an Indian pilot, and Zaara (Preity Zinta), a Pakistani woman, separated by politics but united by love. The emotional sacrifice, soulful songs, and grand visuals make this film an epic. If Saiyaara stirred your soul, Veer-Zaara will elevate it.
10. Guzaarish (2010)
A deeply philosophical love story, Guzaarish follows Ethan (Hrithik Roshan), a paralyzed magician who seeks euthanasia. His nurse Sofia (Aishwarya Rai) silently supports and loves him. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film is a visual and emotional feast. It questions life, death, and love in the most beautiful and heartbreaking ways.
Final Thoughts
If Saiyaara moved you, these ten movies will strike a similar emotional chord. They’re not just about love — they’re about growth, pain, sacrifice, and healing. Each film on this list is critically appreciated and holds a special place in the hearts of romantic movie lovers.
