Dasara-themed watchlist: Films echo festival’s good-versus-evil spirit

Dasara is more than just a festival on the calendar; it is a story of good triumphing over evil, and Bollywood has long drawn on that idea. From grand Ravan Dahan scenes set to soulful music to dark tales of obsession and revenge, and from mythological retellings to supernatural comedies, several Hindi films capture the spirit of the festival in different ways.

Whether you want a regal, festive backdrop or a tale of dharma versus adharma, these films offer a watchlist that brings Dasara vibes to your screen.

'Kalank'

'Kalank' captures the beauty of Dasara through the song 'Ghar More Pardesiya,' featuring Alia Bhatt as Roop and Varun Dhawan as Zafar. The scene takes place amid traditional festivities, with a towering Ravan effigy burning in the background as the characters cross paths.

The grand costumes, warm lighting, traditional music, and elaborate period setting create a regal, almost dreamlike festive atmosphere.

'Ek Villain'

'Ek Villain' is more about darkness, obsession, loss, and revenge than about Dasara itself. Unlike films that prominently show Ravan Dahan, it does not have a similarly well-established iconic Dasara sequence. However, its intense atmosphere, morally complicated characters, and the contrast between love and violence can evoke the darker side of the festival’s symbolism: the battle between good and evil within human beings.

'Nayyi Naveli'

'Nayyi Naveli,' starring Yami Gautam, blends supernatural comedy, family drama, and Indian mythological references. Its story follows Mohini, a newly married woman whose in-laws begin to suspect that she is a witch, while the truth behind her husband adds another layer of mystery. The film draws on the cultural atmosphere surrounding Ram, Ravan, and Dussehra, making it particularly relevant to the festival. Its appeal lies in the contrast between the image of an ideal Indian bride and the possibility of something dark hiding beneath the surface.

'Adipurush'

'Adipurush' is rooted in the Ramayana, the epic most directly associated with the traditional meaning of Dasara. Prabhas plays Raghav, a character based on Lord Ram, while Saif Ali Khan plays Lankesh, inspired by Ravan. The conflict between Raghav and Lankesh reflects the battle between dharma and adharma, and the eventual defeat of Ravan connects directly to the meaning of Vijayadashami. The film's grand battles, mythological characters, powerful weapons, and larger-than-life settings make it suitable for a Dasara-themed watchlist.