Paheli (2005)

Watched this a couple of times growing up, and I distinctly remember calling it my "favourite film" for a couple of months, at the very least. I mean, not only does it have both my childhood (and let's face it, forever) faves Rani and Shah Rukh, but also has them in very unique roles and looks. Plus, this movie is a visual treat. All the vibrant colours, haveli shots, the fashion, etc. reel you in, and make for such a satisfying experience. It also both does and doesn't feel like a folk-tale- I know this is a very bad way of articulating it, but I don't know how to say it better so deal with it. Plus, and this is my favourite part, the ghost character is the closest we got to seeing SRK play the obsessed lover from the early 90s and what's not to appreciate about that? He owns those antagonistic roles, and no one can do a better job at them than him. 

Actually, my favourite part is how gorgeous Rani Mukerji is in this movie. As one of my friends put it, Paheli is an ode to her beauty and I completely agree with the sentiment. I talked about how this movie is a visual treat earlier, and 50% of that is taken care of by Rani and her wonderfully expressive eyes. Who wouldn't fall in love with her like the ghost did?? Also, stan a queen who wields her autonomy in the matter of taking lovers outside of marriage. Yes Lachchi baby, you tell them how you won't be trapped in a loveless marriage just for the sake of honour or whatever. She really said "choose the people who choose you" and I WAS THERE FOR THAT. SLAY GURL!!!

In conclusion, baby me was right- this is my favourite film and always will be. And I miss SRK and Rani together, someone do something about it soon???

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