Love has long been a favorite theme in South Indian cinema. In Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada — the South’s film makers have that special touch which they use to present love in a most enchanting way, which in turn resonates with the audience. From moving music to characters that you will remember forever, these love stories look beyond language. Here is a list of the top 20 South Indian romantic movies that will touch your heart.
- 96 (2018) – Tamil
Starring Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha, in 96, we are taken on a trip down memory lane, which is a story of unexpressed love and emotional comeback. The film’s music, which is very soulful, and its gentle narrative make it a classic, which is a study of first love and which also does justice to lasting memories.
- Premam (2015) – Malayalam
Featuring in this is Nivin Pauly, who stars in a beautiful journey of a man who takes us through various stages of love in the film. What makes the film special is its simple yet very appealing storyline, natural humor, and in-depth emotional content, which has made it a cult hit with the youth.
- Geetha Govindam (2018) – Telugu
This romantic comedy, which stars Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, is a great mix of humor and romance. The lead pair’s chemistry and the new take on the plot make it a great watch.
4. Tholi Prema (1998) – Telugu
A classic which stars Pawan Kalyan, Tholi Prema weaves a story of pure love and emotional growth. It is also the preeminent Telugu love story of all time.
- Alaipayuthey (2000) – Tamil
Directed by Mani Ratnam, in Alaipayuthey, we see the ebb and flow of marriage and love post-wedding. With outstanding performances by Madhavan and Shalini, it is still a favorite for romantics.
- Bangalore Days (2014) – Malayalam
In many ways, a love story, Bangalore Days also has very moving romantic elements. The film’s youthfulness and emotion put it at the top of my watch list.
7. Ye Maaya Chesave (2010) – Telugu
Directed by Gautham Vasudev Menon, this film presents a complex love story. In the company of Naga Chaitanya and Samantha Ruth Prabhu, the movie turned into a modern-day romance classic.
- Mouna Ragam (1986).
Mani Ratnam’s Mouna Ragam is a classic love story of a woman caught between her past and present. Revathi’s performance in this one is a pour of emotion which adds great depth to the film, which is a gem in the cinema.
- Charlie (2015) – Malayalam
Starring Dulquer Salmaan and Parvathy, Charlie is a magical story of love, art, and adventure. The film, which is very poetic in its style of story, is also a treat for the eyes and the emotions.
- Roja (1992) – Tamil
Another of Mani Ratnam’s great works, Roja, also does justice in terms of patriotism and love. The film’s emotion and A.R. Rahman’s score make it a classic.
- Majili (2019) – Telugu
Featuring Naga Chaitanya and Samantha, Majili presents love, heartbreak, and redemption in a very serious light. It’s a mature look at relationships and second chances.
- Thira (2013) – Malayalam
In the mix of suspense and love, Thira presents how compassion and emotion can propel people to do the extraordinary. It is a unique romantic drama that also puts forth a greater message.
- Arya (2004) – Telugu
Allu Arjun’s big break came in Arya, which put forth a new style of romance. The film’s theme of selfless love, which resonated with youth, made it a massive hit.
- Minnale (2001) – Tamil
Before Minnale, in which Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein was a hit in Hindi, Madhavan and Reema Sen starred in it, which in turn became what may be called a doleful hit in the Tamil film industry.
- Ennu Ninte Moideen (2015) – Malayalam
Based on true-life events, this tragic love story, which stars Prithviraj Sukumaran and Parvathy, will take you to a tear-jerking end. The acting and the cinematography are simply outstanding.
- Thuppakki Munai (2018) – Tamil
A unique blend of romance and action in which we see how love brings out the best in people at their rock bottom. It’s emotional and powerful.
17. O Kadhal Kanmani (2015) – Tamil
A modern love story from Mani Ratnam that looks at live-in relationships and changing values in today’s generation, which has a very heart-warming ending.
18. Kirik Party (2016) – Kannada
This young adult romance, which features Rakshit Shetty and Rashmika Mandanna as the leads, portrays college life and young love with authenticity and humor.
- Malare (2015) – Malayalam
In spite of being a song from Premam, which does bring in a different element, “Malare” stands out. The music, the visuals, and the way it makes you feel have made it a love anthem for an entire generation.
- Dear Comrade (2019) Telugu.
Starring Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna, Dear Comrade is a tale of passion, equality, and emotional repair.
Conclusion
South Indian cinema is a well-established platform for great stories, which also include excellent love stories that still leave the audience in awe. From the classic romances to very modern, bold tales, each of these films also puts out pure forms of love. No matter if you are a fan of romance or just a casual moviegoer, these 20 must-watch South Indian love story films are going to touch your heart and stay with you forever.
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