Diwali might be about bursting crackers, taash parties and yummy goodies, but it is, first and foremost, an occasion to spend time with family. While, for some, outdoor celebrations can be exciting, a cosy family movie night (to go with the feasting) can add another layer of warmth to the festivities. Whatever your reason for staying indoors — aversion to crackers, smoke or seasonal allergies, or a simple wish to keep things low-key, here’s a watchlist of eight wholesome Bollywood family entertainers from the 1990s, perfect for an at-home Diwali celebration.

Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992)

Cast: Aamir Khan, Ayesha Jhulka

Set in a small town, Mansoor Khan’s Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar tells the story of two college students from different social backgrounds vying to win a prestigious cycling marathon. The story follows Aamir Khan’s Sanjay, a carefree young man who rises to the challenge of winning a prestigious cycling competition to redeem his college’s honour. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and perseverance, showcasing Sanjay’s transformation from a laid-back student to a determined competitor. With memorable songs like Pehla Nasha, the film has become a beloved classic in Indian cinema.

Where to Watch: ZEE5

Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke (1993)

Cast: Aamir Khan, Juhi Chawla

Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke is a classic Bollywood romantic comedy directed by Mahesh Bhatt. It stars Aamir Khan as Rahul, a young man who inherits his sister’s mischievous kids and their family business. Juhi Chawla plays Vyjayanti, a lively woman who runs away from her strict father and finds herself at Rahul’s home. As Rahul tries to balance his chaotic family life and a struggling business, he and Vyjayanti form a sweet bond.

Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar

Andaz Apna Apna (1994)

Cast: Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Raveena Tandon, Karisma Kapoor

Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Andaz Apna Apna is a comedy film that follows two bumbling dreamers, Amar (Aamir Khan) and Prem (Salman Khan), as they compete to win the heart of a wealthy heiress, Raveena (Raveena Tandon). Their rivalry turns chaotic as they encounter a zany cast, including the villainous Crime Master Gogo (Shakti Kapoor) and identical twins Teja and Ram Gopal Bajaj (Paresh Rawal). Filled with slapstick humour and quirky dialogues, Andaz Apna Apna has gained a massive cult following.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)

Cast: Salman Khan, Madhuri Dixit

Directed by Sooraj Barjatya, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! is a story that celebrates family values, love, and relationships. The plot follows Prem (Salman Khan) and Nisha (Madhuri Dixit), who fall in love amid the wedding preparations of their siblings, only to face a tragedy that tests their bond and family ties. Known for its vibrant songs, elaborate wedding scenes, and cultural festivities, the film became one of India’s biggest blockbusters in the 1990s.

Where to Watch: Netflix

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Amrish Puri, Fareeda Jalal

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge is a classic Bollywood romance directed by Aditya Chopra. The film follows Raj (Shah Rukh Khan) and Simran (Kajol), who meet on a trip to Europe and fall in love. However, Simran's traditional father insists she marry someone else, leading Raj to pursue her in a quest to win over her family. The film is celebrated for its memorable music, iconic dialogues and picturesque locations.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit

Dil To Pagal Hai, directed by Yash Chopra, is a romantic musical that explores love and friendship within a dance troupe. The story revolves around Rahul, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who is caught in a love triangle with his best friend, Nisha (Karisma Kapoor), and the passionate dancer, Pooja (Madhuri Dixit). The film beautifully captures the complexities of relationships, dreams, and the pursuit of true love.

Where to Watch: Prime Video

Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999)

Cast: Salman Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Tabu, Sonali Bendre, Mohnish Bahl

Another family drama from Rajshri Productions, Hum Saath Saath Hain is directed by Sooraj Barjatya. The story revolves around the Chaturvedi family headed by Ramkishen (Alok Nath) and his wife Mamta (Reema Lagoo). They have three sons Vivek (Mohnish Bahl), Prem (Salman Khan) and Vinod (Saif Ali Khan), and a daughter Sangeeta (Neelam). Mamta’s insecurities lead to conflicts regarding Vivek’s role as managing director in the family business, prompting him to step back. As struggles for power unfold, the film explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the complexities of family ties in a joint family.

Where to Watch: Netflix

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kajol

Karan Johar’s directorial debut Kuch Kuch Hota Hai follows Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan), a college student who is torn between his best friend Anjali (Kajol), and his college crush Tina (Rani Mukerji). Rahul marries Tina, thus breaking Anjali’s heart. After Tina's tragic death, Rahul’s 8-year-old daughter undertakes a mission to reunite her father with his college bestie. The narrative intertwines themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery with songs that have become cult classics.

Where to Watch: Netflix