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Bollywood films that blend ancient myths with modern narratives

Last updated on - Jul 24, 2025, 03:00 IST
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1/5

Divine meets digital

Ranbir Kapoor’s Brahmāstra (2022) introduces a present-day hero connected to ancient astras—celestial weapons of Hindu mythology. Blending sci-fi and spiritual legacy, the film presents a mythic universe powered by modern visual storytelling.

2/5

Sage in suburbia

In OMG: Oh My God! (2012), Akshay Kumar plays a modern-day Krishna in disguise. The film critiques blind faith using satire while retaining the moral clarity of Indian epics. A god in jeans, he stirs both laughs and reflection.

3/5

Epic in history

Mohenjo Daro (2016) stars Hrithik Roshan as a commoner challenging corrupt rulers in an ancient civilisation. While fictionalised, the story blends mythic undertones of divine justice and prophecy with early urban legend, placing one man’s courage against a crumbling empire.

4/5

Rebirth and revenge

Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan star in Karan Arjun (1995), where two brothers are reincarnated to avenge their mother’s suffering. Rooted in Hindu belief, this tale mixes rural folklore with 90s Bollywood masala.

5/5

Past life puzzle

Paheli (2005) merges the folklore of desert spirits with marital dilemmas. A ghost falls for a bride, played by Rani Mukerji, while Shahrukh Khan portrays both husband and spectre. A haunting tale of choice and reincarnation.

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Copyright © Jun 2, 2026, 12.42PM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service