Twenties are a strange time in life. Some of your friends are getting married, some are changing cities and some are getting promoted at work. Its only natural to feel a little lost at times.
We, and some of our favourite characters from these movies and shows are here, to remind you that you aren't alone. Watch these movies and shows for some comfort.
1. Rang De Basanti
Rang De Basanti is a film that is made for the young, but touched hearts across age brackets. The movie, set in the backdrop of a college, is a story of an English journalist who comes to retrace India's history. She meets a bunch of eccentric college students, who seem to have no direction in life, but have a heart of gold. The movie is a timeless reminder how youth can bring a change, while keeping in mind our country's rich history. Especially relevant to watch this election season.
2. Dil Chahta Hain
Farhan Akhtar's debut as director is the story of three friends who are as different as chalk and cheese. Saif Ali Khan, Aamir Khan and Akshay Khanna star as three guys in their twenties, going through the motions of jobs, relationships and marriage. While life tries to divide them, their friendship only strengthens with time.
3. 3 Idiots
The movie enjoys the cult status it does because it challenges accepted norms. Rancho's character takes on the Indian education system's obsession with marks instead of innovation. The movie shines in the portrayal of three individuals, who were told they would not go far in life while studying in the country's best engineering school. India's education system rewards following rules. But it is the rule breakers, who bring a change. Checkout this funny clip from the movie and catch it on Netflix.
4. Kota Factory Season 1 & 2
Released in the heydays of YouTube content, TVF's Kota Factory showed a teenager's struggle to make it to the country's top engineering college, IIT. Growing up is hard and with dreams this big, the sacrifices become bigger. Kota Factory also challenges the way engineering is taught in the country. While the show delves into the struggles of the young, it also shows how the memories made during this phase of an adult's life, last a lifetime. Currently, in its 2nd season, the show was acquired by Netflix and is available on the platform for streaming.
5. Little Things
Little Things is one of those heartwarming shows that teach you about relationships in a way that would make you remember the lessons for a lifetime. The show is a story of a young couple, working and living in the city of Mumbai. The time they spend together leads them to better understand each other's little quirks. While relationships can make us happy, they are also opportunities to learn and grow as individuals. Watch the show for the beautiful chemistry of the lead pair of Mithila Palkar and Dhruv Sehgal, on Netflix.
6. Lakshay
Another one from Farhan Akhtar, the movie is an aimless boy's journey to the Indian Army. Akhtar's movies often portray themes of being lost in your twenties, and Hrithik Roshan brings the character to life. Often a hero's journey goes from being an underdog to a man on a mission, but Lakshay shows that its only human to waver in your path. There will be obstacles but life's about facing those with a smile.
7. Cubicles
TVF's Cubicles is the story of an everyday corporate employee's troubles. And if you are also living away from home in an alien city for work, with dreams of making it big, the show is a reminder that it's not easy. But anything worth having never comes easy. Follow the story of a bunch of corporate employees, with big dreams and passions.
8. Yeh Jawani Hain Deewani
As the title of the movie rightly communicates, youth is crazy. But it is also the best time of your life. Kabir is a wanderer. He meets Naina, his schoolmate on a trek in Manali again. Sparks fly but Kabir chooses to leave to follow his dreams. They meet again at their best friend's wedding but Kabir again has to choose between staying by her side and leaving. The story may seem light and fun, but explores themes of how our decisions can shape our life.
9. Dear Zindagi
Alia Bhatt plays Kaira, a woman in the city, struggling with her mental health. She goes back to her hometown in Goa and enlists the help of a therapist, Dr Jehangir, played by Shah Rukh Khan. The movie talks about the critical subject of mental health issues, that young people often face but refuse to acknowledge. It also explores the importance of seeking help and professional guidance, when one needs it.
10. TVF Aspirants
We all have that one friend who has attempted to crack UPSC, India's toughest exam. Aspirants is a story of a group of friends who meet at the hub of UPSC preparation, Rajinder Nagar in Delhi. While they struggle to crack the exam, they also grow up and realise that life is so much more than pursuing a dream.