Shahid Kapoor (Aditya) and Kareena Kapoor (Geet) in Jab We Met (2007). Image: Still from Jab We Met
Released in 2007, Jab We Metcame at a time when Bollywood romance was synonymous with grand gestures and over-the-top drama. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film infused realism, humour, and modern sensibilities into an already-established formula, offering a fresh take on love and personal growth. The story follows Aditya, a wealthy young man heartbroken after being dumped by his girlfriend, who meets Geet, a lively and talkative girl, on a train. Their journey from strangers to friends, and eventually lovers, left a lasting impression on audiences across India, making Jab We Met a worthy successor to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge(DDLJ), long regarded as the gold standard of Bollywood romance.
Why Jab We Met Sets a Benchmark
1. Fresh Characters and Chemistry
Aditya (played by Shahid Kapoor) and Geet (played by Kareena Kapoor) are relatable characters with distinct personalities. Their chemistry feels genuine, making their love story more engaging.
2. Strong Female Lead
Geet breaks the mould of the traditional Bollywood heroine. She is independent, confident, and actively drives the story forward. Unlike typical characters who wait for love, Geet takes charge of her life and choices, a refreshing change in Bollywood at the time.
“Aaj Tak Life Mein Ek Train Nahin Chhuti Meri”
Hilarious dialogue from Jab We Met. Still Image from Jab We Met
Geet’s unapologetic love for life, and the way she navigates her own emotions, is something rare in Bollywood romances, where heroines are often passive. Here, she doesn’t just wait for a man to fight for her—she chooses her own path, making her character an important symbol of female empowerment in modern Bollywood cinema.
3. Realistic Storytelling
Not only is Geet a strong character, but the story itself is grounded in realism, which further sets Jab We Met apart. The film presents a genuine depiction of relationships and personal growth. It shows how love can help individuals heal and evolve, rather than just being about romantic gestures. This departure from the idealized romance of DDLJ was a breath of fresh air, showcasing a more grounded love story.
4. Character Development
Both Aditya and Geet experience significant personal growth throughout the film. Aditya evolves from a self-absorbed young man into someone who learns to take responsibility for his emotions. Geet learns about love and loss, making her character arc compelling. The way these two characters grow, individually and together, is central to the film’s charm.
5. Humour and Lightheartedness
The film balances humour and emotional depth, making it enjoyable and relatable. The witty dialogue and lighthearted banter keep the audience engaged while addressing serious themes. The humour never feels forced, and it adds a certain warmth that’s rare in Bollywood romances of the time.
“Bachpan Se Hi Na, Mujhe Shadi Karne Ka Bahut Craze Hai, By God!”
Kareena Kapoor Khan from Jab We Met. Photo Credit: Netflix
Scenes like Geet’s heartfelt conversation about marriage plans or her quirky, spirited reactions throughout the film bring a touch of realism to the otherwise cinematic world of Bollywood romance.
What Makes Jab We Met Different
1. Non-traditional Romance
Jab We Met shifts the focus from typical romantic tropes to real-life issues like personal identity, heartbreak, and the journey of self-discovery. While DDLJ focused on the romantic journey of Simran and Raj within the context of familial approval, Jab We Met emphasises individual growth alongside romance. It wasn’t just about finding love but also about finding oneself—a theme that resonated deeply with modern audiences.
2. Breaking Gender Stereotypes
Geet is not only the love interest but also the plot’s driving force. Her boldness contrasts with Aditya’s initial hesitance, showcasing a progressive portrayal of female characters in Bollywood. In DDLJ, Simran is more passive, waiting for her love to fight for her, whereas Geet actively shapes her destiny. This shift in portrayal signified a move toward stronger, more independent female characters in mainstream Bollywood cinema.
3. Cultural Representation
The film incorporates Punjabi culture, showcasing family dynamics and traditional values in a modern context. It highlights the importance of family while also emphasising individual aspirations, reminiscent of DDLJ but with a contemporary twist.
Conclusion: A Lasting Influence
Jab We Met was not just a film; it changed the landscape of romantic cinema in India. It introduced relatable characters, humour, and emotional depth, setting a new standard for love stories. By building on the foundation laid by DDLJ, Jab We Met brought fresh perspectives to Bollywood romance. Geet and Aditya remain memorable characters, inspiring new couples in films like Shruti and Bittoo from Band Baaja Baaraat.
Modern Influence
The film’s legacy lives on, influencing more than just Band Baaja Baaraat. Films like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Tamasha also carry forward the theme of love intertwined with personal growth, showing how Jab We Met set a benchmark for this kind of storytelling. It taught filmmakers that romance could be fun, meaningful, and transformative all at once, while offering strong character arcs for both male and female leads.
Jab We Met will always be celebrated as a landmark film that redefined romance, proving that love can be fun, meaningful, and transformative.
